Proximity to the Hole
Also known as: proximity to the hole, proximity to hole, approach proximity, average proximity, how close my approach shots finish
Proximity to the hole is the average distance your approach shots finish from the flag. A good number depends on how far you hit from. Arccos reports that a 10-handicapper's approaches from 125 to 149 yards finish about 62 feet from the pin on average.
Proximity measures approach quality. Shot-tracking apps and tour stats group it by distance band, because a 50-yard shot should finish closer than a 200-yard shot.
It shows how many putts you will need. Approaches that finish far away leave long putts and more three-putts. Approaches that finish close create birdie chances.
To improve it, start with distance control. Most approach misses are short or long, not left or right. Know your real carry for each club and aim at the safe part of the green on hard pins. Cutting out big misses helps the average more than a few great shots.
Tips by skill level
Track where your approaches finish for a few rounds. Group them by distance band.
Use strokes gained alongside proximity. It shows how much each band costs you.
Example
He thinks his iron play is fine. His tracking app shows his average proximity from 150 yards is far longer than he guessed, so he works on carry distances.
Why it matters
Proximity ties approach play to scoring. It shows whether you are giving yourself makeable putts.
Common mistakes
- Comparing proximity across different distances
- Firing at flags to chase a better number
- Ignoring shots that miss the green
- Judging from memory instead of data
Frequently asked questions
How is proximity to the hole measured?
Measure how far each approach finished from the hole and average them, usually by distance band. Shot-tracking apps and tour stats both do this.
How can I improve my proximity?
Work on carry distance control and aim for the safe part of the green on hard pins. Fewer big misses lower the average more than a few close ones.
Sources
Related terms
- Approach ShotAn approach shot is any shot hit toward the green to reach or set up the putting surface. It is usually a par 4's second shot, or a par 5's second or third.
- Greens in Regulation (GIR)Greens in Regulation (GIR) counts how often a golfer reaches the green in two strokes fewer than par. It is golf's most common ball-striking measure.
- Strokes GainedStrokes gained measures the strokes a player gains or loses against a benchmark (tour average or a peer group). It covers tee shots, approach, around the green, and putting.
- Carry DistanceCarry distance is how far the ball travels through the air before it first lands. It is different from total distance, which includes roll.
- DispersionDispersion is how spread out your shots are, plotted as a pattern. A tight dispersion means repeatable contact; a wide one signals inconsistency in face, path, or strike.
Related guides & benchmarks
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