Okay, let’s not put off this promise any longer: 2026 will absolutely, almost certainly, absolutely be the year you finally get better. There are numerous ways to do that: reading GOLF Magazine, our videosbook a class and get fit for clubs — but you can also learn a lot just by reading this website. In an effort to get you moving toward your 2026 goal, we’re introducing five key tips for you to focus on next year. Now read on and get started.
No. 1 — Make more putts immediately
No. 2 – Fix your chipping
No. 3 — Add speed to your swing
5 important tips for 2026: Find more fairways
If your golf game is anything like mine (let’s hope it isn’t), you need to find the fairway much more.
Rory McIlroy said one of his biggest keys for amateur golfers to lower their scores is not to try to hit shots they can’t make. The need to attempt the “hero shot” normally arises when you are out of position. As you spend more time in the fairway, the need to attempt shots you shouldn’t attempt should diminish.
So what is the key to putting the ball in the short grass more often in 2026? GOLF Top 100 teacher Kellie Stenzel says finding the fairway comes down to a few things.
“Finding the fairway, like most solid golf shots, comes from fundamental alignment and being balanced throughout the swing,” Stenzel said. “Something as fundamental as a good grip so that the clubface is square at impact and this makes it so much easier to aim correctly and encourages a good swing path. Being balanced at address and throughout the golf swing is certainly the key to making solid contact and finishing on the fairway.”
According to Stenzel, there is a simple practice exercise to fine-tune your balance and grip and ensure you find more fairways in 2026.
“A great practice technique is to hit balls with your feet close together, as this will force you to be efficient and stay balanced,” Stenzel said. “Extend this drill to the tee shot and try to hold your finish until the golf ball lands. If you are balanced to start and throughout your swing to finish, your chances of hitting the fairway are very high.”
So if you’re grinding this winter in preparation for the 2026 golf season, work on your balance and grip and find more fairways in the new year.
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