This season my Tee Times column has focused on shotting better scores by improving your game from 150 yards and in. 

Just because the golf season is winding down, you don’t have to put away your clubs and wait until spring to improve your golf game.  Winter is really the best time of the year to make changes to your golf swing or technique.  If you are not playing or competing, you don’t have to worry about shooting a score and you may have more time to devote to your game.

Putting Technique

To practice your putting, you don’t even have to leave home!  You just need a flat surface, a putting mat or even a rug. 

• Work on your start line by placing two tees on the ground slightly wider than the width of the golf ball. Place the tees about of foot away from the ball.  Hit putts through the “gate” formed by the two tees ensuring the ball doesn’t hit the tees.
• Place a line around the circumference of the ball. Next place the ball on the ground with the line vertical and on the target line.  Hit putts and get the ball rolling with the line straight up and down.
• Place balls five feet from the hole. See how many balls you can make in a row.  Do this daily keeping track each day how many putts you make.  Strive for a personal best each day.

Golf Fitness

The great thing about improving your golf fitness is that it not only benefits your golf game, but it is also great for improving your health and life in general. 

• If you want to go all in, find a Titleist Performance Institute Fitness Professional. Have them take you through an assessment and create a workout plan for the winter.
• One of the simplest things to do is improve your balance and flexibility. This can have a huge impact on your game.

Chipping and Pitching

The key to great chipping and pitching is the ability to hit your landing spot.  Golfers who have great short games are very good at picking a landing spot and letting the golf ball roll out from there.

• Developing great touch doesn’t have to be done with a golf ball. Using foam golf balls are a great alternative to practice inside. 
• Place towels on the ground at distances of 10, 20 and 30 feet. Hit shots at each towel and work on land the ball on your intended target.

The winter is a great time to elevate your game.  The time you invest will pay big dividends in the new golf season!