Why are you considering golf? Does it really appeal to you or are you being pressured into it by friends or office interests?
Regardless of the reason, I want to offer you this bit of advice that will help you enjoy the game: “Enjoy the game.”
It seems simple enough, doesn’t it? But I assure you, it’s not. Whether you’re just starting or have been playing a while, I want you to start enjoying the game. That means stop stressing about your stance and swings and club selection...that will all come with time (and possibly lessons). The most important thing you can do to best enjoy this game is to really like being out on the course, doing your best and having fun. Leave competition to the stress monkeys.
OK, with the most important piece of advice out of the way, let’s play!
Find a friend who golfs and join him or her for an easy 9-round game. Make sure that this is a relaxing “get to know the game” round. Try to schedule the round at a time that’s not busy so you won’t be pressured by players behind you.
Before you begin at the1st hole, try to spend some time with a bucket of balls at the driving range —- where you can just smash balls downrange or into the water. That exercise will loosen you up and help adjust your grip, stance and swing. You can use any club you’d like here...try them all.
There are three main ways to move from hole to hole during a game: An electric cart (usually provided by the course), walking with a wheeled pull cart or the old fashioned way of just walking with your bag on your shoulder. I prefer the first method...
Forget keeping score! Just focus on the basics (stance and swing) and golf club use (what’s a 9 iron?). Ask your partner which club would be the best for each shot, and why.
You can rent or borrow almost any required gear, but you’ll likely need a collared shirt (check the course dress code as denim, sandals and t-shirts are usually not allowed).
Take your time. Focus on the outdoor experience not the technicalities —- that’ll all come later.
Plan to lose a few balls...that’s just part of the game, especially for beginners. Don’t spend too long looking for lost balls as it holds up the game. Regulation rules usually provide for a 5-minute search...I suggest spending less than half that time.
Let your playing partner know that you may take 3 or more tries at each tee. That’s more than acceptable.
Don’t overdo it the first or second time out. If you’re tired or just plain frustrated, call it a day. Don’t force yourself to play all 9 or 18 holes if you’re not feeling it. This part of the experience is all about testing the waters...to see if this game is for you.
When the game is over, head to the clubhouse and have a cold drink. That’s a perfect place to discuss the game and critique yourself and get helpful hints from your partner and other golfers.
NEXT UP: So...you kinda like this golfing thing? Let’s look at terminology and equipment.
Find a friend who golfs and join him or her for an easy 9-round game. Make sure that this is a relaxing “get to know the game” round. Try to schedule the round at a time that’s not busy so you won’t be pressured by players behind you.
Before you begin at the1st hole, try to spend some time with a bucket of balls at the driving range —- where you can just smash balls downrange or into the water. That exercise will loosen you up and help adjust your grip, stance and swing. You can use any club you’d like here...try them all.
There are three main ways to move from hole to hole during a game: An electric cart (usually provided by the course), walking with a wheeled pull cart or the old fashioned way of just walking with your bag on your shoulder. I prefer the first method...
Forget keeping score! Just focus on the basics (stance and swing) and golf club use (what’s a 9 iron?). Ask your partner which club would be the best for each shot, and why.
You can rent or borrow almost any required gear, but you’ll likely need a collared shirt (check the course dress code as denim, sandals and t-shirts are usually not allowed).
Take your time. Focus on the outdoor experience not the technicalities —- that’ll all come later.
Plan to lose a few balls...that’s just part of the game, especially for beginners. Don’t spend too long looking for lost balls as it holds up the game. Regulation rules usually provide for a 5-minute search...I suggest spending less than half that time.
Let your playing partner know that you may take 3 or more tries at each tee. That’s more than acceptable.
Don’t overdo it the first or second time out. If you’re tired or just plain frustrated, call it a day. Don’t force yourself to play all 9 or 18 holes if you’re not feeling it. This part of the experience is all about testing the waters...to see if this game is for you.
When the game is over, head to the clubhouse and have a cold drink. That’s a perfect place to discuss the game and critique yourself and get helpful hints from your partner and other golfers.
NEXT UP: So...you kinda like this golfing thing? Let’s look at terminology and equipment.
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