How to break 20: getting your handicap under 20.0
Going from the high 20s to a teen handicap is mostly about avoiding big numbers, not hitting it further. Most strokes are lost to penalties, three-putts and recovery shots that don't recover.
A Handicap Index just under 20 usually means scoring somewhere in the low 90s on a course of average difficulty.
The plan
- 01
Kill the double-bogey-plus holes
Track how many holes you score triple or worse. Take a club you trust off the tee on tight holes and aim for the fat side of the green.
- 02
Get out of trouble in one
When you're in the trees, chip back to the fairway. One shot lost beats three.
- 03
Lag putting
Practise 10–15 metre putts until you leave most within a putter-length. Removing three-putts is the fastest saving there is.
- 04
One reliable chip
Learn one low-running chip with a single club and use it everywhere around the green.
- 05
Submit every score
Your Handicap Index only drops when you post scores. Play and post regularly.
Common questions
- Is a 20 handicap good?
- A handicap around 20 puts you in the middle of club golf. Breaking it is a genuine milestone for most players.
- How long does it take to break 20?
- It varies, but regular practice focused on short game and course management often shows results within a season.
Already there?
You earned SUB 20. Wear it.
Verify your handicap once and unlock the SUB 20 collection for good — your earned level stays yours.