The 5 best things to do when your golf course is unplayable this winter

It is getting to that time of year where the light gets shorter and storms roll in off the Atlantic every second weekend. We methodically advance up the alphabet of storm names and the likelihood of your weekend golf plans lying in ruin, with unplayable and closed courses, increases dramatically. Rather than pine for the halcyon days of the grand stretch and the long lasting light of an Irish summer day, we share our top five list of the things we like to do to keep our golf game sharp when the prospect of a game is unlikely.

1. Lessons. This is a self obvious one but there is no better time to get a professional lesson than the autumn and winter season. So many golfers, whether trying to improve to break 100, all the way to players looking to make it to a single figure handicaps, often overlook just how beneficial a proper golf lesson can be to their game. Finding the right coach can take some time but taking that first step and having a proper lesson is usually the hardest part for casual and amateur golfers. But take it from us, bite the bullet and go get a proper lesson. Not a lesson with your mate down the club who thinks he knows his stuff but a real one with a proffesional. It will be well worth the time and money.
2. Driving range with a purpose. We all love leathering the ball and having a hit at the range but are you actively improving your game by doing so? Unlikely. When you go to the range, build out a plan on what you want to achieve for your session. Is it practising short wedge distances? Fixing your grip or swing habits? Trying new shots out? Have a plan and stick to it. There are 100s of free resources that have great best tips on how to get more out of your practice and we suggest giving them a go.
3. Putting Practice. There are a plenty of reasons why we may never drive a ball or hit an iron as well as pro but there is no reason why you cannot try to putt like one. Putting is built on practice, it does not require natural strength or club speed and of all of golf's many skills, it is the most conquerable with practice. The best part is you can do this anywhere. Set up a mat and get putting. You literally cannot putt too much. Again there are so many online resources that can help with fun drills that you can do just about anywhere you can place a putting mat. 
4. Simulators. While we cannot all be Jason Day and have his home set up (if you haven’t seen it see it - here) The access to simulators over the last few years has grown tremendously. In Dublin, where Ace Golf is based, we have some great options with UK brand Pitch recently opening in Dublin. It is fun way to get some golf in even if the weather is not playing ball. 
5. Put on your Essential Ace Golf Polo and go have a pint. You may as well look sharp even if you are not going to get a chance to play!