My golf game is broken. Here is my 4-part plan to fix it

Welcome to Play Smart, GOLF.com's regular game improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.

It has been my goal to become a golfer for a long time. There is no greater joy among recreational golfers than being able to say you are a beginner golfer. Among weekend heroes, scratch is king.

Over the past five years or so, I have made significant progress toward that goal. I've run my handicap index up to 3 many times, and I've gotten a glimpse of that mysterious mountain of handicaps. But each time, that one-digit reference reached my destination. Shaving off those last few lashes proved difficult.

The last two seasons have been very frustrating for me in my quest to get to the start. After several seasons of playing the best golf of my life, 2023 and 2024 have been my two worst seasons since setting up my first goal. Development doesn't usually go hand in hand with golf, but this golf course took a little too long for my liking.

After a difficult 2023, I thought 2024 would be different – and for a while, it was. The season started with a lot of encouraging signs, and I put together a few solid rounds. My index was back under 4, and I finally felt like I was getting some energy back. However, over the past month or so, I've come to a standstill.

I've played seven rounds since the beginning of June, and I've only broken 80 twice (on very easy courses). In two of my last three rounds, I struggled just to break 90. What started as a promising season has turned into another summer slog.

I've decided I've had enough of playing bad golf. And with about half a season left in front of me, I'm dedicated to improving my game. Here is my 4 part (hopeful!) fix.

1. Get lessons

Looking back at my best recent seasons, I realized there was an obvious reason why I played so well: I was taking lessons. When I say “taking lessons,” I don't mean I saw my pro every week, but I did get my swing tested once every few months. And with a single digit handicap, that should be more than enough to keep things in order.

In the last two seasons, I haven't taken a single skating lesson. I was still active in practicing and playing, but I didn't do it under the supervision of a professional. No wonder my game suffered.

If you're playing well, it may seem like you don't need to keep taking lessons – but that can't be further from the truth. Even if you are playing well, seeing your professional regularly is important. It's easy to fall into bad habits with your swing, but getting tested every month or so will keep that from happening.

As I continue this requirement from development, I commit to at least one lesson every six weeks. I have a feeling it will be worth my while.

2. The validity of the principle

Now that I'm turning 30, I'm making it a point to be even more serious about fitness. That's not to say I was a bull in my 20s, but when you're young it's easy to get complacent and run away. I know those days are numbered, though, and if I want to play my best golf I will need to take better care of my body.

To start working towards this goal, I decided to start using the GolfForever Swing Trainer. This piece of equipment is part swing coach, part practice aid, and is used by many pros, including Scottie Scheffler.

I plan to start small with basic home workouts and using the Swing Trainer to dial in my golf swing muscles. As I get stronger and in better shape, I will introduce more into my routine. I'm hoping that keeping myself in better shape will bring benefits to my game.

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3. Speed ​​training

I have never been the tallest player, but I have made my height work during my golf life. However, as I play with better and better players, I realize that my lack of distance is hurting me. I decided it was time to chase the long distance.

I've done basic speed training exercises in the past, and I've actually added some mph to my clubhead speed over the past few years. But now, it's time to get serious.

There are a number of speed training aids on the market right now, but perhaps the one with the best reputation is The Stack System. I got my hands on some of their equipment a few years ago, but never got around to trying it out – until now. With my goal of shaving the stroke in full swing, I will make speed training a regular part of my routine.

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4. Back to the ol' reliable

When I was younger, I was a deadeye putter. I might not be the tallest player, but I could make putts with the best. Now…not so much.

I can't say for sure why I lost my touch on the greens, but I know I've gone through several putter changes in recent years. That is rarely a recipe for success. So, I'm going back to the ol' trusty.

As a child, I played Odyssey White Hot No. 9 putters. I've never really liked the look of it, but I've bent tons of putts with it. I think it's time to retire it. It may not be the “sexiest” putter, but if it can make putts, I don't care. It's time to get back to what works – optics must be discarded.

So there you have it, my 4-part plan. Will it work? Check back with me at the end of the season. In the meantime, if you're struggling with your game, I hope some or all of my plan can help you. Remember, we're in this development thing together!

Zephyr Melton

Golf.com Editor

Zephyr Melton is an assistant editor for GOLF.com where he spends his days blogging, producing and editing. Before joining the GOLF team, he attended the University of Texas followed by stops with the Texas Golf Association, Team USA, Green Bay Packers and the PGA Tour. He assists in all instruction and covers youth and women's golf. He can be reached at [email protected].