The Range Hasn't Changed Since 1913. That's the Problem. (BONUS)

The Range Hasn't Changed Since 1913. That's the Problem. (BONUS)

Author: Isaak Ramsey & Hayden Zimmerer | Smarter Golf Practice in Less Time April 14, 2026 Duration: 32:36

The driving range business model hasn't meaningfully changed since the first one opened in Pinehurst in 1913. Lights, mats, and automatic ball dispensers. That's it.

But the science of how people learn motor skills has changed dramatically. And none of it says "hit the same club to the same target until it feels good."

In this episode, we break down exactly how to structure your limited practice time using strokes gained data, random practice principles, and pressure finishes. Three complete sessions: 15 minutes at home, 30 minutes at the range, and a full 59 minute plan that covers every part of your game.

Hayden, a professional golfer who practices 3.5 to 4 hours a day, has a specific target on every single shot. If the guy with the most time is the most intentional, that should tell you something about how you're spending your 30 minutes.

Download the free practice plan PDF: playreadygolf.beehiiv.com/59minuteplan⁠ Try the Play Ready Golf app: https://apps.apple.com/app/id6752723937⁠

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.playreadygolf.app

00:00 Why "feel" is lying to you 02:00 Practicing to say you practiced 03:00 Bob Rotella's 60/40 rule 03:59 Strokes gained breakdown: where your shots actually come from 04:44 The 5 rules of effective practice 06:12 "If you aim anywhere, you'll hit it everywhere" 06:33 Full pre-shot routine on every shot 07:37 Track something. Write it down. 08:12 End every session with pressure 08:30 15 minute home putting session 11:49 30 minute range session 14:09 Stop training for penalties 17:14 Wedge distance control 18:43 The 59 minute practice plan 22:13 Why iron play is where you improve the most 23:17 Tee ball: keep your shoes on 25:05 Putting and chipping: don't fluff the ball 27:27 Full routine or no routine. Pick one. 28:06 Why people don't practice like this 29:09 The range hasn't changed since 1913 30:37 Practice for the golf course, not your swing


There's a common frustration that settles in when you love golf but feel stuck, watching your scores plateau despite your effort. Play Ready Golf is built on a simple, powerful idea: real improvement doesn't require endless hours or expensive gear you might not have. Instead, this podcast digs into practical, actionable strategies that fit into a regular life. You'll hear straightforward conversations about smarter practice, mental approaches that actually work on the course, and how to make the most of your existing game. The focus is always on tangible takeaways-the kind you can try during your next range session or round. It’s for anyone tired of generic advice and ready for a clearer path to lower scores. Each episode feels like a focused chat with a knowledgeable friend who cuts through the noise, all dedicated to helping you play better with what you've already got. Tune in and start transforming the time and resources you already invest into noticeable, satisfying progress on the fairway.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 24

Play Ready Golf | Strokes Gained for the 9 to 5 Golfer
Podcast Episodes
The Range Series Part 2: How to Approach Iron Practice [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:50
You hit great shots on the range for an hour. You think you finally have it figured out. Then you get to the course, chunk your first iron, and watch the dirt fly farther than the ball. Your practice lied to you. In this…
The Range Series Part 1: How to Fix Your Driver [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:28
The driver is often the most expensive club in the bag, but it is also the most daunting. It is the longest club, has the least loft, and offers no ground assistance, making it incredibly difficult to square up consisten…
How We Set Golf Goals That Actually Lower Scores [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:32
In this very first episode of the Play Ready Golf Podcast, we break down exactly how to set goals for 2026 that you will actually stick to. We know that most golf goals end up like "motivational posters"—they look nice,…