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Breaking 90: How to Take Your Golf Game to the Next Level

For many golfers, breaking 90 is a major milestone—it’s that moment when the game starts to feel a little more controlled, a little less random. But getting there takes more...

For many golfers, breaking 90 is a major milestone—it’s that moment when the game starts to feel a little more controlled, a little less random. But getting there takes more than just hitting balls on the range. To consistently shoot in the 80s, you’ll need to focus on key areas of your game, develop a solid strategy, and pay attention to the little things that can make a big difference. Whether you’re stuck in the 90s or you’re on the cusp of breaking through, here’s a guide to help you take your game to the next level.


1. Improve Your Driving Accuracy

One of the biggest factors in breaking 90 is keeping your ball in play off the tee. You don’t need to bomb it 300 yards—just focus on hitting the fairway. A consistent, reliable tee shot will help you avoid costly penalties and keep double bogeys off your scorecard.

Tips:

  • Use a club you trust. If your driver is unpredictable, try a fairway wood or hybrid.
  • Prioritize accuracy over distance. Shorter but straight tee shots are far more valuable than long ones that end up in the rough or out of bounds.
  • Work on your pre-shot routine. A consistent routine helps calm nerves and builds confidence.

2. Focus on Your Short Game

Around 60% of your shots will come from within 100 yards of the hole, so improving your short game is crucial. The better you can chip and putt, the more chances you’ll have to save par or avoid a big number.

Tips:

  • Practice chipping with different clubs to learn how the ball reacts. You don’t always have to use a wedge—sometimes a bump-and-run with an 8-iron is the smarter play.
  • Spend extra time on the putting green. Focus on lag putting (long putts) and those nerve-wracking short ones inside 5 feet.
  • Get comfortable with your sand game. Avoiding blow-up holes after hitting into a bunker is key to keeping your score down.

3. Manage the Course, Not Just Your Swing

Smart course management is often overlooked, but it’s a huge part of breaking 90. Instead of trying to hit every shot perfectly, play strategically by thinking one or two shots ahead.

Tips:

  • Play to your strengths. If you’re better with your 7-iron than your fairway wood, lay up to a comfortable distance rather than risking a tough long shot.
  • Avoid unnecessary risks. Sometimes, it’s better to punch out of trouble rather than attempting a hero shot through the trees.
  • Know your distances. Spend time learning how far you hit each club and use that knowledge to make smarter decisions on the course.

4. Minimize Penalty Strokes

Nothing kills a round faster than penalty strokes. Whether it’s hitting out of bounds, into water hazards, or losing balls in the rough, these mistakes add up quickly. Reducing penalties can shave several strokes off your score without requiring any major swing changes.

Tips:

  • Play conservatively off the tee when hazards are in play.
  • Study the course before your round and note where you can afford to miss.
  • Consider playing with a spikeless golf shoe like Pluto Golf’s P1 Sneakers for better comfort and stability on uneven terrain—slipping during your swing can lead to errant shots.

5. Master Your Mental Game

Breaking 90 isn’t just about physical skills—it’s also about staying mentally sharp. Golf can be frustrating, but learning to stay calm under pressure and bounce back from bad shots will keep your score intact.

Tips:

  • Focus on one shot at a time. Don’t dwell on mistakes; instead, reset and move forward.
  • Set realistic expectations. You don’t need to play perfect golf to break 90—just limit the big mistakes.
  • Develop a positive routine. Whether it’s a deep breath before each shot or visualizing your target, these small habits help you stay in the moment.

6. Use Gear That Works for You

The right gear can make a noticeable difference in your performance. Comfortable shoes, well-fitting clubs, and breathable apparel can help you stay focused during long rounds.

Tips:

  • Choose clubs that fit your game. If you struggle with long irons, swap them for hybrids.
  • Wear shoes that keep you comfortable, especially if you’re walking the course. Spikeless options like the Pluto Golf P1 Sneakers are a great choice for their versatility and all-day comfort.
  • Dress for the weather. Layers, caps, and breathable fabrics help you stay comfortable and focused.

Wrapping Up

Breaking 90 isn’t about being perfect—it’s about consistency, smart play, and managing mistakes. By focusing on accuracy, improving your short game, thinking strategically, and staying calm under pressure, you’ll give yourself a great chance to hit that milestone. And don’t forget to gear up properly—comfortable, performance-driven shoes and apparel from Pluto Golf can help keep you focused from the first tee to the final putt.

Ready to take your game to the next level? Check out Pluto Golf’s P1 Sneakers and stylish apparel to keep you looking sharp and feeling comfortable on the course.

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