Golf - Getting Started
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Several hundred years ago, in 15th century Scotland, the game known at that time as "gowf" was
born. 
So, for the novice getting started, learning how to play golf, the game entails entering this lifestyle with such a rich and varied history, a potentially major investment of time and money, a steep physical and mental learning curve - and enormous fun! As is often the case, the best way a beginner can begin is by learning what NOT to do first. First, and perhaps most important, of all, don't rush out and spend a huge wad of cash on course fees, equipment, lessons, clothing, and so forth. You don't yet know which courses are worth it, what equipment is quality, which suits you, and lessons can wait a short while. Part of the excitement of learning to play golf is the newness and the joy of finding a sport that you can play alone, with friends and spouses, or even with the whole family. But golf is a difficult game to play well and can be frustrating and expensive if you don't invest a little time finding out what you need to know. As with so many other things, you should start small and don't take everything too seriously too soon. Many pros will advise against spending many weeks on a driving range when first beginning, because they want you to avoid developing bad habits which are hard to break. But, some time on a range can be a cheap way to get your muscles moving, find out if you have an aptitude or interest, and give you an idea of the types of clubs and balls to use. Find an inexpensive course and wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing that doesn't bind your arms and shoulders. Save that $1,000 you'd spend on pants, shoes, and shirts for later. You can comfortably start with a simple three club set borrowed from a friend or rented from the clubhouse. A Nine iron, a wedge, and a Number 5 wood is plenty for the beginner. In fact, you'll use the wedge less on a driving range, but you can add a putter and move to the putting practice area later. Some have miniature sand traps to practice escaping. Relax and observe those who hit the ball well and imitate their grip, stance, and posture. Tee up, keep your eye on the ball as you swing, and give it a firm whack. If you miss a few, so be it. Enjoy. You're teaching your body what the swing feels like, what angle and impact produces what kind of flight. On the putting green, start very close to the hole - no more than a couple of feet away. When you can make 25 putts in a row fairly consistently, move back to six feet, 10 feet, 20 feet - no farther. More or less consistently is good enough as even the pros sometimes miss a two-footer! Whether driving or putting, stand so that a casual push wouldn't knock you over. Golf is about balance, concentration, and some simple physics. Now, go have a cool drink in the clubhouse and enjoy the day. You did well your first time out. Getting Started Part II Golf Exercises Balance and Posture Get a Good Golf Grip Simple Golf Swing Drills Golf Glossary The Complete Golfer |
