Do you have to take golf lessons? Of course not. Can you pick up golf and improve on your own? Of course, and that is the route that many golfers take.
But beginners should always look into lessons. You'll simply pick up the game much more quickly. Golf is not easy to master, and if you want to get good at it, you'll show improvement much more quickly if you are taught the correct way to play from the get-go.
And if you are spending money on golf as you get into the game - buying new clubs, nice clothes, paying green fees - then spending a little bit more on lessons is a good idea. (Not to minimize the costs involved - golf can be an expensive hobby.)
Individual lessons usually range from 30 minutes to an hour, with prices varying widely based on the teacher's qualifications and the golf facility at which he or she works. A typical price range might be from $25 per session to more than $100 per session. Discounts are frequently available for people who sign up for a package of lessons (say, a series of six). (Read how one top instructor structures his golf lessons to get an idea of what's involved.)
There's another option that's even cheaper. Check with any local colleges. Many community colleges and universities offer continuing education courses, and golf is a popular course in such programs. Many school districts also offer continuing or adult education programs, and taking golf lessons through this method can reduce your costs considerably. The instruction isn't one-on-one and won't be as rewarding, but it's a good option for those on tighter budgets.
Taking lessons simply makes learning the game much easier, and improvement in your play takes place much quicker. Which will increase your enjoyment. Not to mention the safety of those around you on the golf course!
More Information
• Before You Buy Golf Lessons
• One-on-One Lessons vs. Golf Schools
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