Practising at the driving range is one of the best ways to improve your golf game. However, simply hitting ball after ball without a plan can become repetitive and less effective over time. To make your practice sessions more engaging, why not introduce some fun and challenging range games? These games will help you refine your technique, enhance consistency, and improve focus—all while keeping practice enjoyable.
Here are five exciting range games that will sharpen your skills and take your swing to the next level.
1. Target Challenge – Master Your Accuracy
How it Works:
Pick a target at the driving range (such as a flag, a marked distance, or even a specific spot on the range). The goal is to hit the target as accurately as possible within a set number of shots.
How to Play:
- Choose a target at different distances.
- Take 10 shots with the same club, aiming to land as close to the target as possible.
- Award yourself points:
- 5 points for hitting the target directly
- 3 points for landing within a close radius
- 1 point for being on the correct line but off the mark
- Try to beat your previous score in the next round!
Why It Helps:
✅ Improves shot accuracy
✅ Enhances distance control
✅ Builds focus under pressure
2. The Par Game – Simulating Real Play
How it Works:
Instead of just hitting balls randomly, this game allows you to simulate playing a real course by selecting a sequence of targets to represent different holes.
How to Play:
- Choose a target and assign it a par score (e.g., a distant flag = par 4, a closer marker = par 3).
- Play the hole by hitting one shot at a time, keeping track of how many strokes it takes to “reach” the target.
- Move on to another target and repeat for a full 9-hole or 18-hole session.
Why It Helps:
✅ Encourages strategic club selection
✅ Develops course management skills
✅ Makes practice more engaging and realistic
3. Fade vs Draw Challenge – Shape Your Shots
How it Works:
This game helps you develop shot-shaping skills by intentionally hitting fades and draws at will. The ability to control ball flight is crucial for handling different course conditions.
How to Play:
- Choose a target and attempt to hit a fade (left-to-right for right-handers, right-to-left for left-handers).
- Next, attempt a draw (right-to-left for right-handers, left-to-right for left-handers).
- Repeat for 10 shots and count how many you successfully shape in the correct direction.
- Try to increase your success rate over time.
Why It Helps:
✅ Improves ball control and shot shaping
✅ Helps navigate obstacles on the course
✅ Builds confidence in varying conditions
4. The Knockdown Challenge – Controlling Ball Flight
How it Works:
The goal of this game is to practise knockdown shots—a crucial skill for windy conditions or when needing a controlled, lower flight shot.
How to Play:
- Select a mid-range target.
- Hit five normal shots to understand your standard ball flight.
- Next, attempt knockdown shots by:
- Placing the ball slightly further back in your stance
- Swinging with a shorter, controlled follow-through
- Reducing your overall swing speed
- Compare results and track how well you control the ball’s trajectory.
Why It Helps:
✅ Teaches control over shot height
✅ Helps in windy or tricky conditions
✅ Enhances versatility in shot-making
5. Distance Control Ladder – Mastering Club Distances
How it Works:
Many golfers struggle with distance control, especially when switching between clubs. This game will help you fine-tune your swing for different distances.
How to Play:
- Choose a series of distances (e.g., 50 yards, 75 yards, 100 yards, and 125 yards).
- Start with your shortest shot and gradually increase the distance with each attempt.
- Your goal is to land the ball as close to each distance marker as possible using the correct club.
- Track your success rate and adjust your swing accordingly.
Why It Helps:
✅ Enhances distance awareness for better club selection
✅ Improves consistency in approach shots
✅ Boosts confidence in varied on-course situations
Adding fun and challenging range games to your practice routine is a great way to keep your golf training exciting while also sharpening essential skills. Whether you’re working on accuracy, shaping your shots, or improving distance control, these games will help you develop better habits, strategic thinking, and greater confidence on the course.
Next time you head to the range, give these games a try—and watch your golf game reach new heights!
