Why Amateur Golfers Need to Know Their Distances – And How a Simulator Can Help
- wil ingram
- Mar 21
- 2 min read

One of the biggest mistakes amateur golfers make is not knowing their distances. If you don’t have a precise understanding of how far you hit each club, you’re leaving strokes on the course. Misjudging a shot by even 10 yards can be the difference between hitting the green and landing in a bunker. That’s where a golf simulator becomes an invaluable tool for improvement.
The Importance of Knowing Your Distances
Every golfer, from beginners to seasoned players, should have a solid grasp of their carry and total distance with each club. Here’s why:
Better Club Selection – Knowing your exact distances ensures you choose the right club for every shot.
Improved Course Management – Avoid hazards and set up better approach shots.
More Confidence – Eliminating guesswork makes you a more decisive and consistent player.
How a Golf Simulator Helps
A golf simulator, like the TrackMan units at South Bay Golf Club, provides instant feedback on your swing and ball flight, helping you dial in your distances with unmatched precision.
1. Accurate Distance Tracking
Simulators measure carry distance, total distance, spin rates, and ball speed, giving you exact numbers for every club in your bag. This data allows you to build a reliable yardage chart and make smarter decisions on the course.
2. Practice in a Controlled Setting
Unlike the driving range, where weather and course conditions vary, a simulator provides a consistent, controlled environment. You can hit shot after shot with no external factors affecting your data, making it the perfect way to fine-tune your game.
3. Save Time and Get More Reps
Practicing with a simulator allows you to maximize your time. No need to search for balls, wait for range mats, or battle the elements—just hit and get instant feedback. In a single hour, you can hit far more quality shots than during a standard range session.
4. Make Swing Changes with Confidence
When working on a new swing adjustment, a simulator provides immediate feedback, helping you see the impact of changes in real-time. This accelerates improvement and prevents ingraining bad habits.
5. Play World-Class Courses Anytime
Beyond training, simulators let you play iconic golf courses from around the world without leaving your local club. It’s a great way to stay sharp, challenge yourself, and keep golf fun year-round.
Take Advantage of a Golf Simulator at SBGC
If you’re serious about improving your game, knowing your distances is non-negotiable. At South Bay Golf Club, we offer state-of-the-art TrackMan simulators to help you dial in your numbers, make swing improvements, and practice smarter. Book a session today and take the guesswork out of your game!