Golf isn’t just a sport for old retired people. Thousands of people of all ages pick up the sport each year but many find themselves quickly overwhelmed. So, how can someone who has never swung a club before get started in golf? It’s easier than you might think if you follow a few key pieces of advice:
- Accept The Fact That Golf Is Hard
- Hit The Driving Range
- Don’t Overspend On Clubs And Gear
- Learn Basic Rules And Etiquette
Accept The Fact That Golf Is Hard
There’s no way around it, golf is hard. But, if you play with the right people and go into it with the right attitude, it can be one of the most fun and rewarding activities you ever do. No one should go into the game of golf expecting to drive a ball like Bubba Watson or chip a ball like Phil Mickelson. Golf takes years of practice to master, but learning and improving your game is half the fun.
Hit The Driving Range
A driving range allows new players to hit an infinite number of balls for a much lower cost and much lower pressure situation than a real golf course. Professional golfers spend far more time on the range and on putting greens than they do actually out on the course. Be sure to practice both driving and shorter chip shots as they are both equally important and vital to lowering your score.
Don’t Overspend On Clubs And Gear
Golf gear can get pricey if you try to buy top of the line clubs, balls and gear. The truth of it is, golf equipment reaches a point where it is only marginally better for a large additional cost. If you’re playing for hundreds of thousands of dollars at the U.S. Open, this is well worth the investment. But, if you’re playing twice per month with a few friends, then it’s not worth such a large investment.
Learn Basic Rules And Etiquette
Golfers are big on etiquette. With this comes an understanding of the rules and a respect for other players. There are countless resources online about the rules and proper etiquette when on the course. Your best bet is to make sure you go with an experienced golfer to show you the ropes the first time you go out on the course.
