Golf can be an intimidating sport to take up - it's not easy to master, and can be expensive. Here are some tips for helping you get off on the right foot:
Choosing Your First Set of Clubs
There's a phrase experienced golfers use to describe newbies who look like they have game... but don't: "He’s got a $1,000 bag and a $10 game."
That creative phrase holds a kernel of truth - you shouldn't spend tons of money on golf until you know how to play it. Golf is an expensive game. You'll have plenty of time down the cart path to buy top-notch clubs.
As a beginner, though, it's in your best interest to be thrifty. Manufacturers such as Wilson, Dunlop, Ram, Knight and many others make quality golf sets that can be had for less than $150. Big-box retailers - Wal-Mart, Kmart and others - often carry bargain club sets.
Another option: garage sales or yard sales. Don't knock it - many experienced golfers buy a new set on a yearly basis, so you might get a great deal on a set that cost somebody else many hundreds of dollars.
A year from now, you'll be ready to spend that kind of money yourself. For now, take the money you're saving on clubs and invest in...<p> Also see: Before You Buy Used Golf Clubs
Taking Lessons
If you do have a lot of money to spend, and want to learn as quickly as possible, then a golf academy might be the choice for you. Most major metropolitan areas have at least one good golf school, and most major golf schools offer lodging packages for those willing to travel.
For most, though, the choice should be weekly lessons with a local pro. Most pros are available for lessons. The rate depends on the course the pro is affiliated with and the time allotment. But many pros offer sessions for as little as $30 for a lesson ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.
Also see: Before You Buy Golf Lessons
Where to Practice
At the driving range, of course, where you can hit a bucket of balls and nobody (except you) will care if most of your shots are terrible.<p> Most driving ranges also have practice putting greens. Some also feature practice chipping areas and sand bunkers.
Your back yard is another good place to practice a swing, although you obviously don't want to be hitting real golf balls. Try a wiffle golf ball, or just work on the swing mechanics you’ve been learning during lessons.
And then there’s the living room - made to order for putting practice.
Where to Play
Par-3 courses are good choices for beginners. These are generally nine holes, all short par-3s. Executive courses are also shorter than full-sized 18-hole courses.
If you want to try 18 holes on a full-sized course, ask some golfers you know for recommendations. You want courses that are not too lengthy and that don’t have much sand or water. You want a wide open, easy course.
Many beginners don't like to play with a lot of people watching, so ask about crowds, too. Find a course that doesn’t receive a ton of play.
(Also See our Golf for Beginners - FAQ)
