If you’re new to golf, you might have heard the term “handicap” thrown around but aren’t quite sure what it means or how to improve it. A golf handicap is essentially a measure of a golfer’s skill level that allows players of varying abilities to compete on a more level playing field. Here’s what you need to know about golf handicaps as a beginner.
What is a Golf Handicap?
In simple terms, a golf handicap is the number of strokes a golfer typically shoots above par during a round. According to Jennifer Gregory of Golflink, the handicap index enables players of different skill levels to compete fairly. A “scratch golfer,” who is considered to have a top-level skill, has a handicap of zero, meaning they don’t add any strokes to their final score.
As you improve, your handicap will change to reflect your growing skill, allowing you to track your progress and compete in a more balanced way against others.
What is a Good Handicap for a Beginner?
For a beginner, an average golf handicap tends to be above 30, meaning they usually shoot at least 30 strokes over par. As you start to learn the game and improve your skills, breaking 90 (which means you’re 18 strokes over par) is often considered a great milestone to aim for. A solid goal for a beginner golfer would be to work toward achieving a handicap of 18 or below.
How to Track Your Golf Handicap
Tracking your golf handicap can be tricky, especially when you’re just starting out. Fortunately, there are several apps designed to help you easily track your scores and progress. These apps can calculate your handicap and offer other features to help you improve.
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GolfLogix Golf GPS + Putt Line
This app is perfect for beginner golfers. It’s highly rated and provides essential tools like 3D fairway maps, hazard distance tracking, and even official tournament mode to ensure you follow the rules. Additionally, it offers handicap tracking, pro-level stats, and allows for multi-player scoring. It’s a great tool to have for monitoring your progress.
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Golf GPS SwingU
Another great option for tracking your golf handicap is Golf GPS SwingU. This app gives you access to daily tips, a digital scorecard, and a free handicap once you’ve posted scores from three rounds. If you upgrade to the premium version, you can get deeper insights into every aspect of your game, from swing mechanics to putting. It also compares your scores with those of scratch golfers and tour pros, helping you understand where you stand in the golfing world.
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Golf Handicap Tracker & Scores
This app is designed to calculate your handicap according to the latest rules (2020) and allows you to track your progress over time. It’s a useful tool for keeping a record of your scores, sharing your results with friends, and comparing your handicap on specific courses. You can even receive notifications when your friends post their scores, making it a fun and interactive way to track your golf game.
How to Lower Your Handicap
The key to lowering your handicap lies in practicing consistently, especially on areas of your game that need improvement. For beginners, working on your short game—specifically chipping and putting—is essential. These areas can have a significant impact on your overall score and are often the quickest way to see improvements. By focusing on refining these skills, you’ll find yourself lowering your handicap and playing more competitively in no time.
In summary, as a beginner, it’s important to understand what your handicap represents, set realistic goals for improvement, and utilize technology to track your progress. With regular practice and the right tools, you’ll soon be well on your way to lowering your handicap and enjoying the game of golf even more.
