Definition:

"Ready golf" refers to a method for golfers to speed up play. Simply put, "ready golf" means that each golfer within a group hits when ready.

The Rules of Golf and golf etiquette prescribe the proper way to determine hitting order on a golf course. On the tee, honors; everywhere else, the player within a group who is away (farthest from the hole) hits first.

But ready golf allows the golfers within a group to take their swings when each member of the group is ready to play.

If you reach your ball and are ready to hit, while other members of your group are not yet prepared, then go ahead and hit - even if you are not away.

As noted, ready golf is a good way to speed up play. Keep in mind that while there are no penalties under the Rules for violating order of play, it is considered poor etiquette to do so. Ready golf should only be played when it is prescribed by a tournament organizer, or when all the members of a group agree to it.

But if your group is slow, if you are holding up groups behind, or if you simply want to speed up the round, then agreeing to play ready golf is a good option.

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Examples: The Golf Guide's group was playing a little slow, so all the members agreed to start playing "ready golf."