How To Build A Home Golf Studio

Creating an at-home golf studio can be an excellent way to improve your golf game without having to leave the comfort of your home. However, before you start building your studio, you need to know a few key things.

As someone who has built out two such home studios, one during the early days of the pandemic and my latest one this past month, I can share some of my knowledge from my experience. My need for such a space was twofold; first and foremost, as a PGA Golf Coach, I wanted to create a space to start conducting remote coaching from as well as film content, and secondly, as a fan of the game myself, a place for me to practice, at home. Additionally, some of my students have followed my lead in building out home studios of their own, most of which are in the confines of their home’s garage. 

No matter where at home you are considering building your home studio, whether it be outside by the pool, like mine, in your garage, like a handful of my students, or even in your backyard, there are a few things you need to consider.

 

My Home Studios Over the Years

 

 

 

 

 

Space Considerations

The space for a home golf studio is a crucial consideration. Ideally, it should be at least 10 feet wide, 15 feet long, and 8 feet high. This ensures a full swing without any risk of damage to the walls or ceiling. Additionally, you will have space requirements for whichever home simulator you may choose, so be aware of this as well. 

You can convert a spare room, garage, or basement into your studio, provided it’s well-ventilated, well-lit, and has the space requirements mentioned. As I have recently, you could even consider outdoor space, such as a deck, pool patio, or even the expanses of your backyard. In these scenarios, you will need to consider the effects of weather and have a plan to protect your hitting mats, putting area, net, and any technology you may be using.

 

Simulator

Once you have the space, you will need a golf simulator. A golf simulator is a device that uses sensors and cameras to track your swing and display data on a screen. Many different types of simulators are available, ranging from basic models that display primary swing data to advanced models that offer realistic course simulations and multiplayer capabilities.

When selecting a golf simulator, it’s important to consider the features that align with your needs. Are you interested in online play? Do you require compatibility with different club types? Are realistic weather conditions a priority? These factors should guide your choice.

 

Hitting Mat, Hitting Net, and a Putting Surface

You will also need a hitting mat that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use and provide a realistic surface for hitting shots. Look for a mat at least 3 feet wide and 5 feet long, with a thickness of at least 1 inch. A good mat should have a shock-absorbing surface that can help reduce the impact on your joints.

In addition to the mat, you will also need a net or screen to protect your walls and other surfaces from damage caused by errant shots. Look for a high-quality net at least 10 feet wide and 10 feet tall, with a tight weave that can stop even the fastest shots.

Having a quality putting surface to work on this all-important part of the game is a great finishing touch for your home studio. In my case, I went with a 10×12 combo mat, which has both a hitting area and two putting cups built into the large turf surface. 

The Golfpod is perfect for any home golf studio to easily film your swings. 

 

Computer, Monitor, Tablet, and Projector

Finally, you will need a computer or tablet to run the golf simulator software and display the results on the screen. Many golf simulators come with their own software, but you may need to purchase additional software to get the most out of your simulator. Make sure your computer or tablet meets the minimum system requirements for the software you plan to use.

Many golfers want to see all the action from the simulator right in front of them, projected on the hitting screen affixed to their net. Make sure you find a projector with good visual resolution and one that is compatible with your computer or tablet. 

For my studio, I chose a big-screen TV, which I use to cast the simulator and software from my tablet onto it. Whether you choose a projector, TV, or computer monitor, remember to have the electrical and WiFi capabilities you’ll need within close enough proximity to your space to allow you to get up and running fully. 

 

Low, Mid, and High Budget Options: A Checklist

There are countless directions that you can go with your at-home studio in terms of budget and options. From a very basic hitting mat and net set-up with using your phone as your only tech to an extravagant setup with a large hitting area, putting capabilities, and the latest in technology…your imagination and budget are your only limits. 

Basic Set Up

Pro Series Hitting Mat (5’ X 3’) ($199.99)

10′ BASE Hitting Net ($249.99)

Golfpod Pack ($90)

Total cost for this low price point setup: $538.99 (V1 Sports Special, $449.99)

As you can see in this basic set up, there is no technology in terms of a simulator or radar. However, with your phone and the V1 GOLF app, you can get the added benefit of some basic technology to monitor your swing and progress. You can even upgrade to V1 GOLF+ for only $69.99 more.

 

Mid Tier Set Up

Fiberbuilt Golf Performance Turf Series Hourglass Golf Mat Kit, 5’X5′ ($500.50)

Net Return Home Package ($990.00)

Rapsodo Golf MLM2Pro with Premium Membership ($699.00)

Golfpod Pack ($90)

Total cost for this low price point setup: $2,279.50

In this mid-price point option, technology, such as a simulator or radar, is included with the Rapsodo MLM2PRO. However, I have not included anything related to projecting your simulator experience onto it. In this setup, I have left the viewing of your launch monitor to your phone or tablet, which can be affixed to the Golfpod. Additionally, I have not included any putting options in this package either. 

 

Ultimate Set Up

Fiberbuilt Grass Series Combo Mat, Center Hitting, 10’X12′ ($3,729.00)

Net Return Simulator Series 12’ Hitting Bay ($2,995.00)

Rapsodo Golf MLM2Pro with Premium Membership ($699.00)

Optoma GT2000HDR Compact Short Throw Projector ($1,166.32)

Golf Simulator Projector Floor Mount Enclosure (299.99)

Golfpod Pack ($90)

Total cost for this low price point setup: $8,979.31

This high-price point option includes technology, a high-end hitting and putting combo mat, a top-of-the-line hitting net, and a projector with a protective case—everything you would need for a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing home golf studio experience. 

Creating an at-home golf studio requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a reasonably generous budget. You can indeed build out your home golf studio on a budget; in most cases, however, to have one that checks all the boxes, this project will set you back at least $2,500. Following the guidelines above, you can create a fully functional studio to practice and improve your game year-round.

 

PGA Professional Brendon Elliott is a multiple award-winning Golf Professional based in Central Florida. He is the 2017 PGA of America’s National Youth Player Development Award Winner and is the recipient of more than 25 other industry awards with a focus on Coaching & Education. He is considered by his peers as an industry expert on topics ranging from Jr. Golf Development to Operations to Industry Sustainability. He is the founder of the Little Linksters Golf Academies and the Little Linksters Association for Junior Golf Development, a 501c3 nonprofit also based out of Central Florida. Brendon is also a freelance golf writer for PGA.com, Golf Range Magazine and several other golf websites and blogs. He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America. You can learn more about Brendon at BrendonElliott.com and Little Linksters at littlelinksters.com.