PGA Professional Alex Elliott outlines three essential pillars for becoming a great golfer: implementing random practice, stepping outside your comfort zone to address weaknesses, and mastering the 50-100 yard scoring zone. He explains why 'blocked practice' (hitting the same shot repeatedly) fails to translate to the course and emphasizes the scoring philosophy of Ryder Cup captain Thomas Bjorn.
Ditch 'blocked practice' (repeating the same club) for 'random practice' where you change clubs and targets every shot.
Stop practicing only what feels comfortable; spend your time on the clubs and shots you find most difficult.
Prioritize the 50-100 yard wedge range to improve your ability to scramble and save par on the course.
Visualize specific holes from your local course while on the driving range to bridge the gap between training and playing.