In this episode of the Golf Yourself Healthy Podcast, we sit down with Neil Mathews, Head of Coaching at Wales Golf, to uncover why so many golfers struggle to improve — even when they know something isn’t working.
Drawing on years of experience developing elite players and supporting coaches across Wales, Neil explains a common pattern he sees at every level of the game: golfers continue repeating the same mistakes because they don’t truly understand what to change or how to change it. Rather than adapting, they fall back on habits that feel comfortable but hold them back.
Neil shares powerful insights into how better golfers learn, adapt, and problem-solve on the course. He breaks down the mindset shifts that separate players who stagnate from those who improve - focusing on awareness, ownership, and smarter practice rather than endless technical tinkering.
We explore how Neil helps golfers and coaches create simple, effective frameworks for change that protect both performance and long-term enjoyment of the game. From developing juniors to guiding club golfers, his approach emphasises clarity, confidence, and sustainable improvement.
Whether you’re a coach, a competitive golfer, or a club player frustrated by feeling “stuck,” this episode offers expert, experience-led guidance on how to stop repeating the same errors and start making meaningful progress.
What You’ll Learn
- Why golfers keep doing the same things wrong — even when results don’t improve
- How to recognise what actually needs to change in your game
- The difference between information and real learning
- How coaches and golfers can create clearer, more effective practice
- Why sustainable improvement requires mindset change, not just swing change
🗣 Guest Bio – Neil Mathews
Neil Mathews is the Head of Coaching at Wales Golf, responsible for supporting player development pathways and coach education across the country. With extensive experience working with elite amateurs, juniors, and coaches, Neil is passionate about helping golfers learn how to adapt, improve, and enjoy the game more fully.
He believes lasting improvement doesn’t come from repeating drills or chasing perfect technique — it comes from understanding change, making better decisions, and developing skills that stand up under pressure.
