Accountability is one factor many junior golfers struggle with when it comes to practice. It’s very easy to hit some range balls, maybe do some chipping and putting drills, then call it a day. Even for those players who practice several hours a day they rarely get the most out of their time.

One of the best ways to get more out of your practice is to find an accountability partner. Just as many people do when they want to lose weight, quit a bad habit or train for a marathon, they find somebody who will hold them accountable for their daily decisions, actions, and progress. It doesn’t even have to be someone who is physically there with you either, just check-ins via phone can even make a big difference.

Golf is one of the few sports where most of your practice is done on your own, without a team or coach. So find a friend, teammate or parent who will hold you accountable with your practice every day.

Set a goal for what you want to accomplish and tell your partner. Do drills and make sure you each reach your goal before calling it a day. For example: set a goal of x/10 six-foot putts around the hole. Have your partner toss the balls back to you and keep track of how many you make. Take turns till you both reach your goal. Play games or contests against each other. Play a match on the course.

Take advantage of having someone with you who will push you to get the most out of your practice time. You will walk away from practice feeling much better about the time you spent.