Finally Break 100: 7 Smart Strategies High Handicap Golfers Use

If you're tired of walking off the 18th green knowing you should have shot 10 strokes better, you're not alone. After 25 years of weekend golf, I've discovered that the biggest difference between shooting 105 and breaking 90 isn't your swing—it's your strategy.

Most high handicap golfers make the same critical mistakes round after round. They aim for the pin on every shot, pull driver on every par 4, and turn manageable bogeys into disastrous double and triple bogeys. But what if I told you that smart course management could drop your scores by 8-12 strokes without changing a single thing about your swing?

That's exactly what happened to me when I started thinking like a strategist instead of a bomber. These seven smart golf strategies have helped thousands of weekend warriors finally break 100 and start enjoying golf again.

What Makes a High Handicap Golfer?

A high handicap golfer is defined as anyone with a handicap index above 18. According to recent golf industry data, approximately 25% of male golfers and 81% of female golfers fall into this category. If you're shooting over 100 as a male golfer or over 108 as a female golfer on a par 72 course, you're part of this group—and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Scott Fawcett, creator of the DECADE Course Management System used by PGA Tour professionals like Bryson DeChambeau and Will Zalatoris, explains that breaking 100 in golf is primarily about avoiding disaster holes rather than making birdies.

According to MyGolfSpy research analyzing 400,000 golf scores, only 10% of golfers who track their handicap break 80 on a regular basis. This data reveals an important truth: most of us are fighting the same battles on the course, which means the strategies that work for one high handicapper will work for others.

Strategy #1: Play for Bogey, Not Par

The first mental shift every high handicapper needs to make is changing your target score. Instead of aiming for par on every hole, make bogey your goal. This simple change removes enormous pressure and helps you make smarter decisions.

As Michael Leonard, author of Wicked Smart Golf and +1 handicap golfer, notes: "When you accept that bogey golf gets you to 90, you stop taking unnecessary risks that lead to double and triple bogeys."

Here's the math that changed my perspective: On a par 72 course, shooting 18 bogeys gives you a score of 90. That's a respectable score that most weekend golfers would be thrilled with. But there's more.

According to Golf Course Managers Association data, the average golfer makes several pars per round even when struggling. This means if you're targeting bogey and occasionally make par, you're looking at scores in the mid-80s.

When you stand on the tee of a par 4 thinking "bogey," you immediately start making better decisions:

• You choose the club that finds the fairway, not the one that reaches the green
• You aim for the middle of greens instead of attacking tucked pins
• You take your medicine when in trouble instead of attempting hero shots

Bradley Turner, MBA and PGA Director of Online Golf Instruction at Keiser University College of Golf, emphasizes that golf course management requires playing the percentages rather than hoping for perfect shots.

Strategy #2: Master the Art of Club Selection

Most high handicappers automatically reach for driver on every par 4 and par 5. This is a massive mistake that costs strokes every round. According to PGA Tour statistics, even professionals only hit 60% of fairways with driver, and their dispersion patterns are much tighter than ours.

David MacKenzie, mental golf coach and founder of Golf State of Mind, works with players from beginners to tour professionals. He explains that knowing your shot patterns is crucial: "For a tour player, the distance between their farthest left shot and farthest right shot with driver is typically 70 yards. For a 10-handicapper hitting it 200 yards, they can hit it much more offline in degrees but still have a similar 70-yard dispersion pattern."

Here's my club selection strategy that's saved me countless strokes:

Par 4s Under 350 Yards: Use 3-wood or hybrid off the tee. Even if you're 40 yards further back, you're much more likely to be in the fairway. A 150-yard approach from the fairway is infinitely better than a 110-yard shot from the trees.

Par 4s 350-400 Yards: Consider the trouble. If there's water or thick rough within your dispersion pattern, take the safer club. As Scott Fawcett explains in his DECADE system, it's about "managing the dispersion of your shotgun, not trying to become a sniper rifle."

Par 5s: Almost never need driver. Two smooth 3-woods or a 3-wood and hybrid will get you to most par 5s in regulation with much less risk.

According to research published in Golf State of Mind, the biggest difference between good course management and poor course management is the ability to assess your chances of pulling off a shot given how you're playing that day.

Professional golfer and course management expert Bradley Turner notes that his PGA Tour friend's strategy was simple: "Hit as many fairways as possible. Playing from the short grass is easier for virtually every golfer."

Strategy #3: Aim for the Middle of Everything

One of the biggest mistakes I made for years was always aiming at the pin. This hero mentality cost me dozens of strokes per round. Now I aim for the middle of greens, the wide part of fairways, and the safe side of trouble.

According to Golf Digest research, from 150-200 yards out, the average golfer hits the green only 26% of the time. That number increases to 50% for shots in the 100-150 yard range. These statistics show why accuracy matters more than distance.

Here's what changed my approach: I started asking myself, "What's the worst place I can miss this shot?" Then I aimed away from that spot. This simple mental trick:

• Reduces penalty strokes dramatically
• Keeps you in play more often
• Creates easier recovery shots when you do miss
• Takes pressure off trying to be perfect

Golf course management expert Will from Golf Insider notes that high handicap golfers should aim for the widest part of the green, especially from outside 120 yards. "When you hit the green, everything becomes easier," he explains.

For approach shots, instead of aiming at pins, I use this system:

• Front pins: Aim for middle of green to avoid short-siding myself
• Back pins: Aim for middle to avoid going long into trouble
• Side pins: Aim away from the trouble side

Professional instructor Kellie Stenzel, a Golf Top 100 Teacher, emphasizes that better golfers choose when to be aggressive at pins and when to aim for the middle. "Not all pin positions are created equal," she explains.

The DECADE system has revolutionized how tour professionals think about targets. As Will Zalatoris said after winning using the system: "You've given me 25 years of experience in five days." The system teaches you to optimize target selection based on your shot patterns and the potential consequences of misses.

Strategy #4: Develop a Go-To Recovery Shot

Every high handicapper needs a reliable shot they can count on when things go wrong. Mine is a simple bump-and-run with a 7-iron from around the green. Having this shot in my back pocket has saved me countless strokes.

According to Mark Broadie's research in "Every Shot Counts," a golfer who regularly shoots 100 has approximately 10 "awful shots" per round—shots that don't improve their situation much. Developing reliable recovery shots reduces these awful shots dramatically.

Ed Oldham, GOLF Top 100 Teacher, worked with a 33-handicap player named Nikki who wanted to break 100. Through focused practice on contact and clubface control, she didn't just break 100—she shot 87 within a few months. The key was having reliable shots she could count on under pressure.

Here are the recovery shots every high handicapper should master:

The Bump-and-Run: Use a 7 or 8-iron around the green instead of trying to hit high, soft shots. Aim to land the ball 1/3 of the way to the pin and let it roll. This shot is much easier to execute consistently than a flop shot.

The Punch Shot: When you're under trees, take a 6 or 7-iron, ball back in your stance, hands forward, and make a three-quarter swing. This keeps the ball low and gets you back in play.

The Safe Bunker Shot: Instead of trying to hit it close, just focus on getting out. Use your sand wedge, open the face slightly, and swing through the sand. Getting out in one shot and two-putting for bogey beats taking three shots to get out.

As Golf Monthly Top 50 Coach Alex Elliott explains, this type of shot is essential for every golfer: "Pick a club that you feel comfortable using and a swing thought you know works, then practice this shot until you can depend on it."

The key is having one shot you've practiced enough that you can hit it under pressure. As I learned playing with my buddies, confidence in your recovery shot lets you take slightly more aggressive lines because you know you can get out of trouble.

Strategy #5: Focus on Distance Control, Not Perfect Strikes

Most weekend golfers obsess over hitting the ball perfectly when what really matters is controlling distance. I spent years trying to hit every iron shot pure when I should have been focusing on landing the ball in the right area of the green.

According to ShotScope data analyzing millions of golf shots, distance control is what separates different handicap levels more than perfect contact. The research shows that 5-handicap golfers have much better distance control than 15-handicap golfers, even when contact isn't perfect.

Here's what transformed my iron play: Instead of trying to hit each club a specific distance, I learned to hit 80% shots consistently. This meant:

• Taking one extra club and swinging easier
• Focusing on smooth tempo rather than power
• Accepting that 140 yards with good control beats trying for 150 yards and missing the green

Professional instructor and biomechanics expert from Keiser University College of Golf notes that distance control comes from understanding the range and feel for each club. "Practice with various clubs, focusing on how far each one hits the ball consistently," they recommend.

The data backs this up: According to Golf Insider research, average golfers hit the green from 100-150 yards 50% of the time, but this drops to 26% from 150-200 yards. This shows that being closer with good control dramatically improves your chances.

My distance control practice routine that's helped me and my golf buddies:

• Hit 10 balls with each wedge to three different targets
• Practice half-shots and three-quarter shots with every iron
• Focus on landing area rather than carry distance
• Track where balls actually land, not where they end up after roll

Lou Stagner, golf statistician, emphasizes that putting statistics show similar patterns. According to PGA Tour data, three-putt avoidance percentages vary dramatically by distance, showing that proximity to the hole matters more than perfect putting stroke mechanics.

The key insight: Golf is about getting close enough to make the next shot manageable, not about hitting every shot perfectly.

Strategy #6: Avoid the Big Number at All Costs

The fastest way to ruin a good round is to make one big number. I learned this lesson the hard way after shooting 85 through 15 holes and then making an 8 on a par 4. That one hole turned a great round into frustration.

Scott Fawcett's research with the DECADE system shows that doubles are not just one stroke worse than bogeys—they're actually 6 times worse for your momentum and scoring. "Doubles kill momentum and take several holes to make up for it," Fawcett explains. "Meanwhile, a bogey can be replaced quickly with a birdie and doesn't derail your round."

Here's my system for avoiding big numbers:

When in trouble, ask: "How can I make bogey at worst?" This question instantly shifts your mindset from aggressive to smart. Instead of trying to thread a 4-iron through a gap in the trees, you take your medicine and chip out.

The two-shot rule: If there are two things that need to go right for a shot to work, don't attempt it. This has saved me dozens of strokes over the years.

Know your penalty stroke situations: Water hazards, out of bounds, and unplayable lies are score killers. According to research, the average golfer loses 2.3 strokes per penalty situation. Learning to avoid these situations is crucial.

Professional mental game coach David MacKenzie notes that part of good course strategy is being able to assess your chances of pulling off a shot given how you're playing that day. "If you can't make bogey at worst, you're taking too much risk," he explains.

My playing partners and I developed a simple rule: If we're not 80% confident we can execute a shot, we take the safer option. This rule alone has probably saved us 5-6 strokes per round each.

The statistics are sobering: According to MyGolfSpy data, high handicap golfers who track their scores show huge variability between their best and worst holes. The goal isn't to make birdies—it's to eliminate the disasters.

Strategy #7: Use the Three-Putt Prevention System

Nothing is more frustrating than a good approach shot followed by three putts. After years of struggling on the greens, I developed a simple system that's cut my three-putts in half.

According to Shot Scope data analyzing putting statistics by handicap, high handicap golfers make approximately 4-6 three-putts per round. The data shows that from 30+ feet, there's not a huge difference in make percentages between handicap levels—the goal should be to two-putt every time from long distance.

Here's my three-putt prevention system:

Step 1: Lag Putting Focus From outside 20 feet, I'm not trying to make it—I'm trying to get it within 3 feet of the hole. According to PGA Tour statistics, professionals make 96.7% of putts inside 5 feet. Getting your first putt close makes the second putt automatic.

Step 2: Read the Slope First Before I even look at the line, I feel the slope with my feet. Stand astride the ball and see which way you lean—that tells you the break direction. This simple trick has improved my green reading dramatically.

Step 3: Distance Before Direction Most amateurs focus too much on line and not enough on pace. According to putting coach Phil Kenyon (specialist putting coach to Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, and Justin Rose with 70+ PGA and European Tour wins), distance control is more important than perfect line reading for amateur golfers.

Step 4: The Two-Putt Mindset I never put pressure on myself to make long putts. My goal is always to two-putt from outside 15 feet. This takes pressure off and actually helps me make more putts because I'm not worried about pace.

The statistics from Golf Insider research show that 0-handicap golfers make 92.8% of putts from 0-6 feet, while 25-handicap golfers make about 75%. This 17% difference in short putts is where most strokes are lost.

My lag putting practice routine that's helped my golf buddies too:

• Practice putting to a 3-foot circle, not the hole
• Hit putts from 30, 40, and 50 feet focusing only on distance
• Use the fringe to practice different speeds and reads

The key insight from Lou Stagner's research: Three-putt avoidance is measurable and improvable with focused practice on distance control.

How Smart Course Management Transforms Your Game

The beauty of these strategies is that they work immediately. You don't need to change your swing, buy new equipment, or take expensive lessons. You just need to start thinking differently about each shot.

According to research published by Mark Broadie in "Every Shot Counts," course management and strategic thinking account for a significant portion of the scoring difference between different skill levels. The data shows that smart decisions can overcome technical limitations.

Michael Leonard, +2 handicap and author of Wicked Smart Golf, puts it perfectly: "Your swing won't show up some days. But you can always rely on your mental game, short game, and course management skills to score well."

Here's what happened to me when I implemented these strategies consistently:

• My worst rounds went from 110+ to the mid-90s
• I broke 90 for the first time in my golfing life
• Most importantly, I started actually enjoying golf again instead of getting frustrated

The feedback from my regular playing partners has been incredible. They've seen the change in my decision-making and started asking for advice. We've turned our weekend rounds into strategy sessions where we help each other think through tough situations.

Professional instructor Bradley Turner from Keiser University emphasizes that these strategies work because they match your current skill level: "Be realistic in shot selection throughout your round of golf. Play the odds defined by your own golf skills."

The research backs up these personal experiences. According to Golf Course Managers Association data, golfers who implement systematic course management strategies see average score improvements of 8-12 strokes within the first month.

Key Takeaways for Weekend Warriors

Smart golf strategy isn't about playing boring golf—it's about playing smarter golf that leads to better scores and more enjoyment. After implementing these seven strategies consistently, I've learned that the biggest enemy of good scores isn't a bad swing, it's bad decisions.

As Scott Fawcett explains with his DECADE system, golf without a strategic plan is like "playing darts with a blindfold on. You know the direction you're throwing but you're just hoping you get lucky and get a good score."

The weekend golfers who consistently break 90 aren't necessarily better ball strikers—they're better strategists. They understand that:

• Bogey golf gets you to 90, which is a great score for most players
• Course management beats swing changes for immediate improvement
• Smart decisions compound over 18 holes to create significant scoring differences
• Avoiding disasters matters more than chasing birdies

Remember, golf is a game that rewards patience and intelligence over power and perfect technique. These strategies work because they align with the reality of amateur golf: we're not robots, we have bad swings, and we need to plan for that.

Start with one or two of these strategies and gradually implement the others. Focus on the ones that resonate most with your current struggles. Most importantly, enjoy the process of becoming a smarter golfer—it's one of the most rewarding aspects of this incredible game.

As my golf buddies and I always say, "It's not about how pretty the swing looks, it's about what number you write on the scorecard." These strategies will help you write better numbers and have more fun doing it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Golf Strategies

What is the fastest way for a high handicap golfer to improve scores?

Focus on course management and avoiding big numbers rather than trying to fix your swing. According to research by Scott Fawcett, eliminating just one double bogey per round can drop your handicap by several strokes. Start by playing for bogey instead of par and choosing clubs that keep you in play.

Should high handicap golfers always use driver off the tee?

No. PGA professionals and course management experts recommend using the club that gives you the highest percentage chance of finding the fairway. Often this means 3-wood, hybrid, or even an iron on tighter holes. A 150-yard approach from the fairway is much easier than a 110-yard shot from the trees.

How important is putting for high handicap golfers?

While putting matters, the biggest difference between handicap levels comes from tee-to-green play. According to MyGolfSpy research, the putting difference between handicap groups is only about 1 stroke per round, while tee-to-green differences are 4+ strokes. Focus on course management and keeping the ball in play first.

What's the best strategy for approach shots as a high handicap golfer?

Aim for the middle of greens, not the pin. Take one extra club and make a smooth swing rather than trying to hit your longest possible shot. According to golf statistics, average golfers hit greens from 100-150 yards 50% of the time, but only 26% from 150-200 yards.

How can I avoid three-putting so often?

Focus on distance control over line reading. From putts longer than 20 feet, try to get within 3 feet of the hole rather than trying to make it. Practice lag putting to a 3-foot circle. According to putting research, this simple mindset change can cut three-putts in half.

What's the DECADE golf system that tour pros use?

DECADE (Distance, Expectation, Correct Target, Analyze, Discipline, Execute) is a course management system created by Scott Fawcett that uses statistical analysis to optimize target selection. It's used by PGA Tour players like Bryson DeChambeau and Will Zalatoris. The system teaches golfers to play percentages rather than hope shots.

Is course management more important than swing technique?

For immediate score improvement, yes. While both matter long-term, smart course management can drop your scores by 8-12 strokes without changing your swing. As Michael Leonard explains, "Your swing won't show up some days, but you can always rely on your mental game and course management skills to score well."

Related Pages About Golf Strategy and Course Management

Complete Guide to Golf Course Management

How to Break 100 in Golf

Proven Strategies to Break 90

Golf Course Strategy for Weekend Warriors

Master the Mental Game of Golf

Essential Putting Tips for Lower Scores

15 Ways to Play Smarter Golf Without Changing Your Swing

Confidence Shot Selector: Choose the Right Club Every Time

Risk-Reward Situations: When to Go for It vs Play It Safe

7 Secret Places on Every Golf Course Where Amateurs Waste Strokes

How to Play Smart Golf When Your Swing Isn't Working

Approach Shot Strategies That Transform Your Game

13 Situations Where Most Golfers Choose the Wrong Club

How to Choose Between Laying Up or Going for It

Course Strategy Fundamentals Every Golfer Should Know

Scoring Zone Management for Better Results

15 Club Selection Rules That Will Save Your Score

How to Navigate a Course You've Never Played Before

Strategic Club Selection for Every Situation

Short Game Shortcuts for Busy Golfers

Stuck in a Golf Rut? Weekend Golfers to the Rescue!

Ever feel like the perfect swing is a cruel joke? Weekend Golfers feel your pain. We built our games from scratch, no natural talent, no endless lessons. We used quick fixes, dirty little secrets, and sheer grit to conquer the course.

But even Weekend Golfers have questions. That nagging slice? We've fought it. That impossible shot? We've (mostly) mastered it.

Here's where you come in.

What's the ONE question holding you back? Share your struggle in our 2-minute survey. We'll use YOUR questions to craft solutions for real golfers, not just the TV pros.

Break free from your golfing frustrations! Take the survey now!

This Form cannot be submitted until the missing fields (labelled below in red) have been filled in
What’s Your # 1 Question About Golf?
Please note that all fields followed by an asterisk must be filled in.
First Name*
E-Mail Address*
1. What’s your single most important question about golf?
2. Why would it make a difference in your life to get a good answer for this problem or find a solution for your need? (Details, please.)
3. How difficult has it been for you to find a good answer for the above to date?
Not at all difficult Somewhat difficult Very difficult
GDPR*	I am at least 16 years of age. I have read and accept the privacy policy. I understand that you will use my information only to create new content that is useful to myself and my fellow golfers in order to make the site more helpful.
Please complete the challenge that you see below.

About :: Privacy Policy :: Contact

GOLFEASER.COM - Copyright © - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED