The 99% Rule of Golf: Mastering the Moments Between Shots
A golf swing lasts an average of just 1.5 seconds. Over an 18-hole round, the total time spent actively swinging a golf club usually amounts to less than two minutes. This is a mere 1% of the time a golfer is on the course. The remaining 99%? That time is spent walking between shots, chatting with other players, planning the next move, reflecting on the past shot, and mentally resetting.
For some golfers, this in-between time is filled with smart strategic thinking, visualization, emotional regulation, and appreciation of the surroundings and fellow players. For others, this time is often consumed by feelings of frustration, self-doubt, and excuses – common traps that hinder performance and pull the mind away from the present moment. All golfers can surely relate. While instruction and highlight reels usually emphasize the swing, it is often the moments between shots that heavily influence a golfer’s overall performance and mindset.
The Power of the 99%
In many ways, learning to maximize this 99% is just as important as perfecting swing mechanics. This “in-between time” is when the mental game – preparation, focus, and emotional resilience – takes centre stage. By leveraging this time wisely, players learn to cultivate the ability to recover from poor shots, reset their focus for each shot, and maintain composure throughout the round.
These small shifts in mindset have the power to transform golf from a purely technical sport into a holistic challenge of mental strength, discipline, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. When golfers truly embrace these transitional moments, they not only improve their game but also cultivate priceless qualities such as patience, adaptability, and acceptance – powerful skills that extend far beyond the golf course.
“Success depends almost entirely on how you learn to effectively manage the game’s two ultimate adversaries: the course and yourself.” Jack Nickalaus
Golf Walks: Turning Transitions into an Advantage
So, the moments between shots – often overlooked – are a largely untapped opportunity to elevate performance. These “golf walks” serve as powerful resets, allowing players to anchor themselves in the present moment, recalibrate, and release negative emotions. When leveraged with skill and intention, these moments become a mental advantage rather than wasted “in between time.”
For example, golfers can use these walks to:
- Recover emotionally from a poor shot rather than dwell on it (let it be). This is a supreme skill in golf!
- Refocus on the current challenge rather than mentally replay past mistakes.
- Maintain composure and confidence rather than spiral into frustration.
The Science Behind the Golf Walk
Research shows that walking itself can enhance mental clarity, reduce stress by up to 20%, and create a state of calm that improves decision-making – but that only happens when the walker is in a balanced emotional state. When combined with simple techniques like mindful breathing or visualization, these transitions become invaluable tools for maintaining focus and composure.
For young golfers, developing this habit early lays an ideal foundation for both athletic and personal growth. Learning to manage emotions and maintain focus in these moments fosters resilience, discipline, and self-awareness – traits that benefit them both on and off the course.
What We Often Overlook in Golf
The golf industry bombards players with images of flawless swings, high-tech clubs, and cutting-edge gear, promising that the right equipment will transform their game. While technique and technology definitely matter, this narrative overlooks the reality that success in golf is determined not just by physical skill but by mental fortitude.
For golfers, the obsession with mechanics can create a skewed perception of the game – reducing it to a series of isolated technicalities rather than a dynamic test of mental and emotional balance. We wrote about this in this recent article.
The truth is that the vast majority of golf – the “other 99%” – takes place off the ball. It happens in the transitions, the mental resets, and the moments of decision-making between shots. The reality is that if you’re feeling up tight or grumpy during the walks in between shots, chances are your performance won’t be as good as it otherwise could be. Furthermore, you probably fail to appreciate your beautiful surroundings and maybe even the company of your fellow players. Shame.
A Shift in Focus: From Mechanics to Mindset
By leveraging your time between shots, you’re empowered to develop a calm, focused, and resilient mindset. These in-between moments are not just filler – they are where true performance gains can grow.
By shifting focus from pure mechanics to intentional relaxation and mental clarity, we redefine success in golf. While sound swing mechanics and quality equipment are definitely important, it is the mental preparation and emotional regulation between shots that create the mental environment required for consistent, sustainable improvement.
Final Thoughts
It’s a privilege just to be on a golf course. Next time you’re on the course, make the most of your time between shots. Use it to reset, refocus, and reinforce a positive mental habit. Notice your mental patterns and observe them instead of reacting to them. Look for things to appreciate and enjoy your time on the golf course as much as you can!
In short, make every effort to play from the point of view of the golfer that you’ve always dreamed to be, and let the game unfold with a sense of unconditional acceptance and class. This is how you tap into your dormant potential and enjoy the beautiful game!
The 99% of golf that happens off the ball holds the key to unlocking your full potential – both in the game and in life. Make every effort to use it wisely!
