A mid-handicapper is a golfer with a handicap index between 10 and 20 that typically shoots between 80 and 95.
According to stats released by the USGA, 29.33% of male golfers have an index of 9.9 or lower, while 20.88% of golfers have an index of 20.0 or higher.
That means that about 50% of all golfers have an index between 10.0 and 19.9.
There is no official definition of a mid-handicapper.
Some might say it’s handicaps between 9 and 18 or 11 and 20.
Others might say it’s anyone that shoots consistently in the 80s.
All are correct.
What Being A Mid Handicapper Means
Being a mid-handicapper essentially means that you are somewhat competent at golf.
You are by no means a great player, but you likely have been playing at least a few years and are past the stage of regularly topping/shanking/outright missing the golf ball.
You have a solid understanding of the game and are capable of hitting a variety of shots, but you often struggle with consistency and course management.
You probably still have some swing flaws, and your short game can use some serious work (Practice? You talkin bout practice?).
A bogey golfer falls in the category of a mid-handicapper, albeit on the higher end of the spectrum.
A bogey golfer averages a bogey per hole or about 90 for a round of 18.
Anyone with a handicap over 20 or that shoots close to or over 100 is a bona fide high handicapper.
Common Challenges for Mid Handicappers
Inconsistency
One of the biggest struggles for mid handicappers is inconsistency, both in their swing and in their overall game.
They may have rounds where they play exceptionally well, followed by rounds filled with mishits and high scores.
This inconsistency can be frustrating and make progress difficult to measure.
Course Management
Mid handicappers often struggle with course management, such as choosing the correct club for a given shot, playing within their abilities, and understanding when to take risks versus playing it safe.
Improved course management can lead to lower scores without any significant changes to their swing or technique.
Most golfers would shoot 3-5 strokes better just by having a very knowledgeable caddy telling them exactly what club to hit and how to play each shot.
Related: Scratch Golfers: Myths, Truths, And Some Crazy Stats
Short Game
While mid handicappers may possess a decent long game, their short game can be a significant weakness.
This includes chipping, pitching, bunker play, and putting.
Improving the short game is essential for lowering scores and advancing to a lower handicap.
Strategies for Improvement
Lessons and Swing Analysis
Taking lessons from a PGA professional can help identify swing flaws and provide guidance on how to correct them.
Many golfers have absolutely no clue what their main issues are or how to go about fixing them.
Practice with Purpose
Instead of just hitting balls aimlessly on the range (I was guilty of this for a very long time), mid handicappers should practice with a specific purpose in mind.
This could include working on specific swing changes, practicing different types of shots, or focusing on targets that simulate on-course situations.
Develop a Solid Pre-Shot Routine
A consistent pre-shot routine can help improve consistency and focus on the course.
This routine should include elements such as alignment, visualization, and a practice swing, ensuring the golfer is mentally and physically prepared for each shot.
But please keep it short.
No one wants to watch you staring at your target for 20 seconds and taking 8 practice swings before each shot.
Improve Course Management
Mid handicappers should learn to think strategically on the course, taking into consideration factors such as wind, hazards, and their own strengths and weaknesses.
This can be as simple as playing the easy punch shot back to the fairway instead of going for the hero shot between the trees every time.
By making smarter decisions, they can avoid costly mistakes and lower their scores.
Focus on the Short Game
Dedicating practice time to the short game, especially putting, can lead to significant score improvements.
Mid handicappers should work on developing a variety of shots around the green and practice different putting drills to improve their touch and consistency.
This can be as simple as having just one or two reliable short game shots, such as a bump and run and a higher flying chip shot.
Related: Discover the Magic of the Bump and Run: Improve Your Short Game Today
The good news is that in golf, as in life, there is always room for improvement.
