Average Golf Scores For Beginners

Scores aren't everything in golf. Many people play the game for exercise, social interaction and the chance to spend time outdoors. However, tracking your golf score over time can allow you to gain the satisfaction of seeing your skills develop. 

This is especially true for beginners who are just learning how to master the proper form, choose clubs for various conditions and more. However, many people who are new to the game struggle to know what beginner golf score to strive for. As part of a golf apparel brand dedicated to helping players at all levels look and feel their best, our team here at Devereux has put together this guide to the average golf score for beginners. Read on to get answers to common questions like "what is a golf handicap for a beginner?" and "what is a good golf score for 9 holes?" 

What Is a Good Golf Score? 

As a quick refresher, the object of golf is to get the ball into the hole in as few strokes as possible. As a result, it's one of the few sports where having a lower score is better than a higher one. A few factors affect score in golf. They include: 

• Course management: To play golf well, you need to be able to make good decisions on the course. This requires not only understanding the layout of the course but also knowing your own playing style, how different clubs work and how to capitalize on your strengths at each hole. 
• Strategy: If you want to get a low score in golf, you must go in with a plan. Course information is available online in most cases. Golfers who play well review the course before they arrive and map out what angles they might try to approach from ahead of time. They may change their mind during the game, but coming in with a plan can lay the foundation for good performance. 
• Skill: Your physical skill obviously affects how well you play. As your grip and form improve with practice, your score slowly improves. 
• Mental strength: Anxiety, stress and distractions can get in the way of your game. To consistently get a good golf course, you need to stay relaxed, maintain a positive outlook and remain focused. 

Most championship golf courses have 18 holes and a total par of 72. When you look at all golfers, a great golf score is generally 80 or less. To achieve this score, you can only make a few mistakes on the course. Amateurs who consistently score less than 80 are excellent players who have put in many, many hours of practice and can now reliably play at a high level. 

If you're new to golf, the idea of scoring 80 may seem daunting, and that's okay. The truth is that you shouldn't compare your scores at this stage to those of experienced players. Only a few people in the world go from beginner to elite-level play in a short amount of time. To excel, you need to continue to play and practice. Be patient with yourself and resist the urge to see how your score matches up against others. What's most important is that you see your own scores gradually improve over time. 

Average Golf Scores for Beginners 

There is no set definition for what constitutes a beginner in golf. Generally, you're considered a beginner for at least the first six months, but how frequently you play during that time will impact your game. If you only make it to the course once a month, you may remain at the beginner level for a year or even more. 

According to Metro League, the average score for a beginner golfer is around 108 for 18 holes, which would give you a beginner golf handicap of around 36. The average golf score for 9 holes for beginners would be half that much, or 54. 

You may find it difficult to reach the average beginner golf score during your first few rounds, and it's important to not let your scores discourage you. Focus instead on tracking your score and celebrating the improvements that you see. During the game, use a scorecard to record all your scores and then later, enter them into a golf score tracking app to keep tabs on your progress. 

Tips for Improving Golf Scores as a Beginner 

To improve your golf score as a beginner, follow these tips. 

Practice, Practice, Practice 

There's no substitute for practice in golf. Only by playing can you develop the proper form, learn about your playing style and find out through experience what clubs work best in what situations. In addition to hitting the course, head to the driving range and do golf drills at home to work on specific skills. 

Adhere to Golf Etiquette 

The rules of golf etiquette like being on time for your round, remaining silent while others play and staying with the flow of the groups don't just ensure that you have good manners. They can also help you play better. When you come early, you won't feel rushed and will have more time to set up your shots. Plus, following the other rules of the course can reduce tension and drama that can distract you from the game. 

Dress for Success 

You can't play your best if you're not dressed for the weather or wearing ill-fitting clothing that gets in your way. Protecting your eyes from the sun with a golf hat and sunglasses is also important for playing your best on every hole. 

Consult the Pros 

When you purchase your first set of clubs, get professionally fitted, so the equipment you use is right for you. Consider taking lessons or enrolling in a clinic to learn the basics. Watch tutorial videos and read our blogs to learn more about the game. 

Set Yourself Up to Play Your Best 

By following the above tips, you'll gradually see your golf scores improve over time. Remember that you're not in competition with anyone except yourself and that how you dress for the game can make a difference. Devereux specializes in creating golf apparel and accessories that look stylish but also help you remain drier, cooler and free to move on the course. Check out our new arrivals and put together winning outfits that will get you ready to play your best.