How to Play Golf at a Driving Range

Heading to the driving range is one of the best things you can do to learn the golf swing and improve your game. It’s the perfect, low-pressure environment to build a solid foundation and groove a repeatable motion. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for a successful range session, from what to do when you first arrive to how to practice with a purpose so you see real improvement.

First Things First: Getting Set Up at the Range

Walking into a driving range for the first time can feel a little intimidating, but it’s actually a very laid-back environment. Forget everything you think you know about stuffy golf clubs, the range is for everyone. Here’s a simple rundown of what to expect.

What to Wear and What to Bring

You don’t need special "golf clothes." Just wear something comfortable that you can move in, like shorts or athletic pants and a t-shirt or polo. For shoes, a pair of sneakers is perfectly fine. As for clubs, don't worry if you don't have your own set. Most driving ranges have rental clubs available for a small fee. If you bring your own set of clubs, you should bring these three from your bag: pitching wedge, seven iron, and the driver. These three clubs are a perfect place to start for a training practice day.

Getting Your Bay and Your Bucket

Head into the pro shop or the main building first to rent yourself a golf bay for however long you want and to purchase a bucket of balls. Buckets come in sizes like small, medium, and large. Start with a medium bucket for a great afternoon session. Give yourself enough time between shots to rest. After purchasing everything, look for an "open bay." If the driving range is busy, just wait a moment for one to become available.

Your Pre-Shot Checklist

Before your first swing, it's helpful to have a pre-shot checklist. This checklist is a tool that helps you mentally prepare and focus. Here’s what you might include:

• For right-handed golfers, your hand placement is critical. Your hands are essentially the steering wheel of your swing. A better grip leads to better outcomes. Consider checking how your hands are positioned on the club and making adjustments as needed.
• Make sure the "V" formed by your thumb and index finger points toward your right shoulder (for right-handed players).
• Practice this setup consistently to increase your comfort and confidence in your game.

Athletic Setup

Your posture sets the stage for a powerful and balanced swing. You want to look and feel like an athlete ready to make a dynamic movement. Every good golfer stands to the ball in a similar way, which will feel more natural over time.

• Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, slightly bending your knees.
• Lean forward from your hips (not your waist), keeping your back straight.
• Let your arms hang comfortably, and grip the club with both hands.

Making the Swing: A Simple, Rotational Motion

The golf swing is a rounded action, not an up-and-down chopping motion. You generate power by rotating your body - specifically your shoulders and hips - away from the target and then unwinding through it. The arms and club are just along for the ride.

The Backswing: Turn, Don't Lift

The goal of the backswing is to wind your body up like a spring, storing energy to release into the ball. A common mistake is lifting the club with the arms instead of rotating the torso.

• Initiate with the Body: Start the backswing by turning your chest and shoulders away from the target as one unit.
• Set the Wrists: As the club moves back, allow your wrists to hinge naturally.
• Complete the Turn: Continue turning until your back is facing the target or as far as your flexibility allows.

The Downswing and Impact

Now it's time to unleash all that stored energy. The transition from backswing to downswing is where power is truly developed.

• Shift Your Weight: Start the downswing with a subtle shift of your weight toward the front foot (left foot for right-handed golfers).
• Unwind the Body: Allow your hips and torso to rotate, uncoiling around your steady legs and leading to increased power.
• Ball Then Ground: Aim to contact the ball first, then the ground. Let the clubface's loft launch the ball into the air.

The Finish

The follow-through isn't just for show, it's a critical part of a balanced and effective swing. Hold a strong finish position, facing the target.

• Rotate your hips and chest fully through the shot until they're facing your target.
• End the swing with most of your weight on the front foot, holding your balance.
• Pause at the finish to ensure control and stability.

Practicing with Purpose

Set specific goals for each practice session. Working on particular aspects of your game will lead to more significant improvements over time. Consider using practice drills to refine your skills at home. This focused approach is the fast track to making real improvements to your golf game.

Final Thoughts

You've learned how to maximize a visit to the driving range from setup to swing. With this knowledge, each practice session can be a stepping stone to improving your golf game effectively. Remember, consistent practice with a focus on these fundamentals will help you become a more skilled and confident golfer. Visit Caddie HQ for more tips and resources. Happy golfing!