Not Improving - Golf Coaches Fault?
Why are golfers not getting better?
Over the past 20 years, golf technology has advanced at an amazing rate. From Trackman and Foresight launch monitors that measure golf ball and club data to 3D motion capture systems that are now on our phones. We can even measure ground reaction forces with 3D dual force plates if your coach offers it. With data-driven analysis, today’s players have access to tools that were unimaginable just a couple of decades ago.
Hi, my name is Erik Schjolberg. I teach golfers at my teaching bay, EJS Golf, on the grounds of McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, AZ. If you are in the area or want to come visit as many do for my Scottsdale Golf Lessons, let's meet and change your game forever. The same goes for those that can't make it to Scottsdale, we can go the online golf lesson route. Read my blog and reviews to hear it from my students how happy they are with their results.
According to the USGA, over the past 20 years, the average golf handicap for men has only improved slightly, from 16.3 to around 14, and for women, from 29.7 to roughly 27.5. This incremental improvement is modest, especially when you consider the leaps in technology. While professional golfers are hitting the ball farther, generating more club head speed, and using equipment optimized for performance, these changes haven’t translated into significant improvements for the everyday player.
One major issue is the quality of instruction. Too many coaches, underqualified or relying on outdated teachings, hinder true improvement. Golfers are often bombarded with myths from playing partners and others that say things like, "keep your eye on the ball", “keep your left arm straight” or “slow it down,” which in most cases is harming the golfers ability to self organize.
Coaching today should be 𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 about guessing and secrets and more about evidence-based instruction. Technology can only help if the data is interpreted correctly and than applied effectively. There is no doubt in my mind that coaching will get even better than the best can give now. What I do wonder is if the average golfer will be able to get premium lessons for a non premium price.
Golf is inherently tough, and while technology is a valuable tool, it can’t compensate for ineffective coaching. It’s easy to see the need for more qualified instructors who can properly interpret data and communicate it to their students. Outdated advice still holds sway on the course, while fewer than 5% of golfers can accurately explain why a ball behaves the way it does after impact.
Every time a golfer says that they have to get worse before they get better to improve at golf is another fallacy that is preventing golfers from making the leap towards lessons. This fable has been spread by golf coaches to put the responsibility of getting better solely on the student. There is no accountability when this fall back is used.
Am I missing the real issue in golf improvement? Is technology enough, or is it time to reevaluate how we train and develop golf coaches?
Questions and Answers
Q: Why haven't golf handicaps improved significantly despite advancements in technology?
A: As a golf coach with over 25 years of experience, I've observed that while technology has made incredible strides, the average golfer's handicap hasn't improved as much as we'd expect. The USGA reports that men's handicaps have only dropped from 16.3 to 14, and women's from 29.7 to 27.5 over the past 20 years. This minimal improvement suggests that technology alone isn't enough to significantly enhance a golfer's game.
Q: What's the main reason golfers aren't seeing substantial improvements in their game?
A: In my professional opinion, the quality of instruction is a major factor. Many coaches are either underqualified or still relying on outdated teaching methods. Additionally, golfers often receive misguided advice from playing partners, perpetuating myths like "keep your eye on the ball" or "slow it down," which can actually hinder a player's natural ability to self-organize their swing.
Q: How should modern golf coaching differ from traditional methods?
A: Modern golf coaching should be evidence-based, relying less on guesswork and "secrets." At EJS Golf, I use state-of-the-art technology like 3D motion capture, TrackMan launch monitors, and 3D dual force plates to provide data-driven analysis. However, it's crucial that coaches know how to interpret this data correctly and apply it effectively to improve a player's game.
Q: Is it true that golfers have to get worse before they get better?
A: Absolutely not! This is a fallacy that's been spread by some golf coaches to shift responsibility onto the student. At EJS Golf, I guarantee results from the very first lesson. Every golfer should see improvement right away with proper instruction. This myth has unfortunately prevented many golfers from seeking professional lessons.
Q: How can golfers ensure they're getting quality instruction?
A: Look for coaches who use modern technology and data-driven approaches, but also make sure they can explain the data in a way you understand. A good coach should be able to communicate why the ball behaves as it does after impact. At EJS Golf, I focus on helping my students understand what they're working on and why, using a combination of technology and clear communication.
Q: What's your approach to golf instruction at EJS Golf?
A: My approach is summed up in four words: Assess, Analyze, Train, Improve. I use the latest technology to assess your swing, analyze the data, create a personalized training plan, and help you improve. Whether you're a tour pro or a weekend golfer, my goal is to help you understand your swing and make lasting improvements. You can find out more about my methods at EJSGolf.com.
Q: How can golfers who can't visit Scottsdale still benefit from your instruction?
A: For those who can't make it to my teaching bay at McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, I offer online golf lessons. This allows me to reach golfers worldwide and provide the same level of detailed, data-driven instruction. You can learn more about these options on my website, EJSGolf.com.
(480) 861-9370
