Improving your golf game doesn’t always require long hours or complicated changes. Sometimes, small, strategic adjustments can deliver immediate results. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious enthusiast, making smarter choices on and off the golf course can help lower your score, sharpen your focus, and enhance your enjoyment of the game. Here are seven surprising ways to get better at golf—starting today.

1. Change Your Grip Pressure

One of the most overlooked factors in swing performance is grip pressure. Holding the club too tightly can restrict your swing and reduce clubhead speed. A lighter grip encourages a more fluid motion and better ball contact. Focus on maintaining control without tension. Think of it as holding a tube of toothpaste—firm enough not to drop it, soft enough not to squeeze anything out. This subtle change can instantly improve your swing consistency.

2. Practise Your Short Game More Than Your Drive

Many players over-practise their drive while neglecting the short game. Yet chipping and putting make up the majority of shots in a round. Dedicate at least 60% of your practice time to putting and wedge shots. Set up short game drills before your round or use time at a nearby green. The immediate payoff in strokes saved will surprise you.

3. Use Visualisation Techniques Before Each Shot

Mental rehearsal is a proven method in sports psychology. Before each shot, visualise the ball’s intended flight path, landing zone, and roll. This primes your body and brain to execute the movement. Doing so builds confidence and reduces second-guessing, particularly under pressure. A clear mental image can help eliminate distractions and refine shot execution.

4. Play a New Golf Course

Sticking to the same course might limit your ability to adapt and think strategically. Playing at a different golf course forces you to confront new layouts, hazards, and hole designs. This variety sharpens your decision-making and shot selection. For players based in Singapore, visiting a country club with a scenic layout adds both challenge and enjoyment to your game.

5. Stay in a Relaxed Environment Before a Round

Your performance on the course often reflects your mindset before it. Spending the night before a game in a quiet, nature-surrounded environment such as a bungalow chalet in Singapore can help you feel refreshed and focused. Chalets near golf facilities provide the ideal blend of comfort and convenience, reducing stress and promoting calmness before you tee off.

6. Record and Review Your Swing

Using your smartphone or a swing analyser app, record your swing from different angles. Reviewing the footage provides objective feedback you won’t get from feel alone. It helps you spot flaws like early release, improper weight shift, or incorrect alignment. You can make immediate adjustments and start seeing better ball striking even before your next lesson.

7. Adjust Your Pre-Shot Routine

A consistent pre-shot routine builds rhythm and focus. However, minor changes—such as taking a slower breath before addressing the ball or aligning your clubface before setting your feet—can yield significant benefits. This routine signals your body that it’s time to perform and prevents rushed decisions. Experiment with timing, visual cues, and tempo until you find a routine that keeps you grounded.

Build Better Habits, One Round at a Time

Improving your golf game doesn’t have to wait until your next lesson. By implementing these seven strategies, you can see results in your next round. Whether you’re rethinking grip pressure, revisiting your pre-shot routine, or staying at a peaceful chalet in Singapore before a big game, small changes can unlock noticeable gains.

Consistency, reflection, and smart preparation are often more impactful than simply hitting more balls. Take the time to understand your habits, apply new techniques, and play in varied environments to elevate your performance.

Conclusion: Take the Smarter Path to Better Golf

Progress in golf comes from doing the small things right—consistently. These seven tips offer ways to sharpen your game without overhauling your technique. From exploring a new golf course to refining your mental preparation, each strategy helps you play smarter and more confidently.

Looking to take your game to the next level? Contact National Service Resort & Country Club and experience premier golfing facilities, comfortable chalets, and a supportive environment for players at every level.