Proper training is an important factor in improving your game. An often overlooked aspect of golf training is the short game. Extra time at the range hitting the long ball is a blast; nothing will improve your game more than spending you time working on shots ranging less than 100 yards.

The secret to any training system is to stick a routine. Split your training time evenly between both the long and short game. Two hours pounding drives should equal committing to two hours putting on the green.

Do not neglect approach shots either, or chip shots and or shots out of the sand. A long, arrow straight drive is a thing of beauty to watch, but an accurate chip shot will save two-puts and win matches. When training, it is best to simulate real world conditions. Sure, you could rake the sand perfectly smooth for each and every practice shot and place ball gently on top, but that will never happen on the course. Toss the ball straight up in the air to simulate the dreaded fried egg flop. Set your practice shots up right against the wall of the sand trap practice high angle outs, or the smart shot off to the side.

Not all neighborhood parks are trimmed on schedule and the edges are usually left unkempt. Find these places to learn how to bush whack your ball to safety. You don't need to be at a driving range to train. Earn an hour hitting the fun stuff at the driving range by saving your ball from the worst the park can offer for a while. You, your wedge and bucket of old balls is all you need to make those unattended ends of the park into your golf training grounds.

Incorporating your putter into your training routine will prove the most important thing you can do. More matches are decided on the green than any other part of the course. Practice the long shots, the short taps and even a few from the fringe while on the putting green.

Do not forget that you can practice at home too. You can chip from the garden and weed at the same time. Refrain from mowing the back yard another week and practice some light chip shots. Find a neighbor and take turns hitting practice balls into each other yard to work on blind chip shots.

Regular practice is the most important element in your training routine. You will be better off with an hour, three times a day than four hours on a Sunday. Most important, enjoy your time. Golf is no fun if becomes work.