Understanding Golf Handicaps – How A Golf Handicap Is Determined

Golf is a popular game that is enjoyed by many. When starting out it may seem confusing in understanding some of the golf terms, in specific golf handicaps.  The use of a golf handicap is a way to numerically measure the playing ability of an amateur golfer. It is also a way to determine the net score from the number of strokes a player has received in a round of golf,  which can be used to remove off the gross score.  Therefore, the higher your handicap means more strokes can be removed in a round from your overall gross score  to achieve a low net score.

Using golf handicaps offers a great system for players of all skill levels. Whether you are starting out or have been playing for a number of years, it has no effect on the game because  you are playing at a level playing field and be competitive against any player no matter what their skill level is.

The whole idea is to achieve a  lower handicap in order to be a better golfer. Generally men’s maximum golf handicap that is allowed is 28 and for women is 36.  When starting out playing golf, you would start out at a handicap of 28 (for men) or 36 (for women). This means if you are playing against a more experienced player who, as an example, may have a handicap of 14, then per round you would be allowed 14 shots if a man, or 22 more shots if a woman, more than them.

Majority of golf courses are mostly made up of par 4’s plus a few par 3’s and par 5’s, so the average par is 72 for 18 holes.  Therefore, the golfer with a 14 handicap who takes 86 strokes to finish a round, on a par 72 course, against one taking 100 strokes (men) or 108 strokes (women), would be considered equal in handicaps in playing a good round of golf.

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