Are you a beginner golfer looking to get better at the game? Building a solid foundation is fundamental to progress as a golfer. First and foremost, golf should be fun, and a pastime meant to be enjoyable. However, it can also be frustrating, especially when learning the ropes.
Learning to play golf is a challenging endeavour. But practice will make perfect, just like in any other sport or pastime. Regular practice with your golf skills is how you will become proficient in the game, and let’s face it. When you’re better at a game, it becomes a little more fun!
The following are tips to help you on your way to loving this life-long game.
Tip #1: Posture and Stance
When you are starting, take the time to work on your posture and stance. By perfecting these essential aspects of golf, you will get better at the game faster and ensure you don’t develop bad habits. Proper alignment allows your arms and hands to function correctly, allowing for the most power and accuracy in your shots.
Good golfing posture is focused on learning to tilt your body from the hips instead of twisting it from the waist. Correctly positioning your feet squarely beneath your hips is vital, too. If your stance is too narrow, you will risk losing your balance. If you place your feet too far apart, you will have less control over your shot.
Tip #2: Get the Right Golf Equipment
All the practice in the world won’t help if you aren’t outfitted with adequate gear. There is a wide variety of clubs, and they all have different purposes. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend a ton of money on the latest clubs.
Good quality clubs can be found new or used. Buying used golf clubs can be an excellent way to get a great setup for a fraction of the retail price. Just be sure to research beforehand to know what you are looking for, and always check the condition of the clubs before you finalize your purchase.
Tip #3: Your Grip
How you grip your golf club makes a big difference in how your shot turns out. A proper grip gives you more control and allows your range of motion to develop, which is essential to a powerful swing. To execute a good grip, your dominant hand should be in front of the non-dominant hand, and both hands should wrap around the club.
Tip #4: Swing with the Hips
Even if you’ve never hit a golf ball, you’ve likely heard the advice to swing with the hips, not the arms. This is because when you swing with your hips, the golf ball’s trajectory will be dictated by the hips, not the arms. This, in turn, creates more speed, distance, and consistency.
Getting the hang of swinging with your hips is undoubtedly not easy. It takes a lot of practice and repetition, but eventually, it will become second nature.
Tip #5: Start at a Driving Range
It would be considered poor etiquette to jump onto the nearest golf course to practice. You could disrupt the games of more experienced golfers trying to play the course. On the other hand, a driving range is an ideal place to practice your posture and swing.
Most driving ranges sell balls by the bucket, which you take to the tee-off area with your clubs. You don’t pick up your balls after you hit them; they are collected by a tractor. Driving ranges often employ professionals to give tips and offer practice sessions.
Tip #6: Golf Attire
Before you hit the golf course for the first time, make sure you have the appropriate attire. Most courses have strict dress codes. Khakis or golf slacks are required; jeans are never acceptable. Shorts are okay, but they must be long shorts and should be tailored the same way as the pants you would choose.
You may not require golf shoes for every course, but a collared shirt is one required article of clothing that will be the same everywhere. Opt for a plain colour, or if you choose a patterned one, just be sure it isn’t overly distracting. Under no circumstances should you ever wear a shirt with inappropriate images or phrases.
Tip #7: Golf Etiquette
Once you progress enough to play on a course, you must understand the etiquette rules of a golf course. Stay quiet while others take their shots; always stand clear of the swinging person. Buggies, bags, and carts should never go on the green; these things can do damage.
Pay attention to this rule because if you break it, you could be fined or even kicked off the course. If you have rented a golf cart, be responsible and drive only on the allowed pathways. And always remember to yell “Fore!” if you send your ball toward a group of golfers!