Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
You don't have to be a serious golfer to appreciate how impressive a golf simulator is.
Without ever leaving home, you can take real swings at a screen that mirrors an actual course — complete with slopes, bunkers and hazards.
But it's not just about the visuals. Many systems provide instant, data-driven feedback on your swing, including ball speed, launch angle and distance.
For some players, that kind of insight makes practice even more effective than a day on the course.
It's no surprise then that more Americans are stepping up to the virtual tee.
If you haven't yet jumped on the bandwagon, here's why you might want to start.
A rapidly growing aspect of the game
Some trends come and go — but golf simulators appear to have real staying power.
As Mark Townsend reports for Golf Monthly, the first simulator came about clear back in the 1970s. Legendary golf coach Dave Pelz developed the first golf simulator to help his students improve their game in a controlled environment.
He used cameras to capture the swing and analyze it in real time. One of his students was none other than Phil Mickelson.
Simulators have come a long way since then. Not only are they much more effective and accurate, they're also more accessible — which probably explains why the National Golf Foundation reports a 73% uptick in uses since pre-pandemic levels. Last year, an estimated 6.2 million Americans used golf simulators.
Maybe you were one of them. And now you can increase your reps by building one in your own backyard.
What it takes to build a home golf simulator
It sounds very high-tech and complicated, but setting up a home golf simulator is actually easier than you think.
It does require a little bit of prep and planning — you can't just whack into a golf ball anywhere you want — so the first thing you need is a dedicated space with enough room for a full swing.
You'll need something with proper ceiling height, too, good lighting and a screen or impact net.
After that, the technology does all of the work. Home simulators can cost anywhere from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on how fancy you want to get.
For most homeowners, the biggest challenge isn't the equipment. It's the space. Instead of trying to convert your garage or sacrifice square footage in your home, a dedicated backyard structure for your golf simulator just might be the perfect solution.
You get a purpose-built space, allowing for the optimal layout, fewer constraints and a more immersive experience.
Seems like a no-brainer.
More than just a game
Just in case the prospect of having fun isn't sufficient, here are some other things to think about while you're considering adding a dedicated backyard space for your golf simulator:
- It's stress relief. After a long, hard day, this gives you a space to unwind. You might even show up as a happier version of yourself for your kids and spouse.
- It keeps you in shape. For the many who don't feel motivated to work out during those colder months, the home golf simulator is a no-excuse solution. You can get out and practice your swing anytime, anywhere.
- It's social. You'll never be the boring house again. And you don't just have to get your golf pro buddies on board. Novices can enjoy this just as much because simulators accommodate all skill levels.
So really, it's not just about golf. It's fun, fitness, function — and financially worth it when you factor all of that together.
Play golf in your own backyard
You don't need a full 18-hole course to improve your golf game. In fact, all it takes is about 200 square feet in your own backyard.
Backyard Office specializes in creating custom backyard spaces designed around how you want to live — whether that's a home office, workout studio, she shed, music room or even a fully equipped golf simulator.
Need a quick break from the workday? Step outside and take a few swings.
Missing the course on a rainy day? Your game doesn't have to wait.
Looking for an easy way to entertain friends at home? A golf simulator delivers.
In less than 30 days, Backyard Office can build a fully wired, turnkey space ready for your clubs, your practice routine and/or your downtime. With customizable floor plans and layouts, you can design a space that feels like your own personal retreat — just steps from your back door.
To get started, explore Backyard Office's 3D configurator online and start bringing your vision to life. If you already have something specific in mind, their team can help make it happen.
When you're ready to take the next step — or your next swing — connect with Backyard Office Utah online or call or text 385-296-6744.
That golf simulator is closer than you think.
