Embarking on a successful golf journey requires more than just hitting the ball. Our golf tips for beginners guide covers key tips to elevate your game and ensure an enjoyable experience on the course.
Table of Contents
- 1. Play the right equipment
- 2. Take golf lessons early on
- 3. Develop a pre-shot routine.
- 4. Focus your skills at the range
- 5. Tee it forward
- 6. Don’t let frustration ruin your day
- 7. Become a putter professional
- 8. Follow these fundamental guidelines and etiquettes.
- 9. Enjoy the game.
- Final Thoughts
1. Play the right equipment
By far one of the best ways to set yourself up for success is to start with the right equipment. Having a suitable golf bag to carry your equipment is also crucial, as it helps in organizing your clubs, balls, tees, and towels efficiently. If you’re shooting in the 90s while using blade iron sets or less forgiving clubs, take it as a signal to reassess your gear. Pay attention to your golf clubs, especially the importance of choosing the right golf club for beginners, the type of shafts you use, and the quality of your golf balls. These three aspects hold a significant role in shaping your game, including the choice of the right golf ball for better distance and playability.
Golf Clubs
Beginner-friendly clubs offer better forgiveness. They lower the impact of poor swings and ball contact, they’re also easier to hit straight and far above all else. Learning to hold and swing a golf club properly is crucial for improving your game performance, as it enhances your ability to strike the ball more effectively and consistently.
Shafts
Regular or lightweight shafts are easier to handle and will assist with your range.
Golf Balls
Choose distance over spin when buying golf balls.
2. Take golf lessons early on
Capitalize on your clean slate by hiring a swing coach, especially if you’re among the beginner golfers. A few lessons, either in person or online, can reshape your game and make it more enjoyable to play golf. Invest in coaching before splurging on pricey gear – technique outweighs equipment. Avoid costly swing-fixing later. Create good habits, learn the fundamentals, and gain on-course insights.
3. Develop a pre-shot routine.
A pre-shot routine is something you do before every shot. It helps players to develop consistency and encourages them to repeat the same swing every time.
Stance
Feet shoulder width apart, weight balanced and legs partially bent (like you’re about to sit on a stool). A proper stance is crucial for making solid contact with the golf ball, ensuring precision and consistency in your shots.
Alignment with the ball
Be square to your target, to visualize this, place a club against the toes on each foot and note the direction it points.
Swing tempo
All great players have a 3:1 tempo which means their backswing is 3 times longer than their downswing.
Tee height
Understanding the ‘tee box’ is crucial in golf, as it’s where you’ll make your first stroke on each hole, setting the stage for the correct tee height. For irons, maintain a low tee height (with the ball slightly above the ground). Opt for a higher tee for your driver, aiming for the ball to sit midway up the club’s face.
4. Focus your skills at the range
Get the hang of your game at the driving range before you hit the course. Give each ball two practice swings. Make your practice count!
5. Tee it forward
Starting out, there’s no shame in teeing off from the red or white tee boxes. Attempting ‘hero ball’ shots, which involve taking risky and ambitious shots, can often lead to frustration and is not recommended for beginners as it’s better to focus on safe, high percentage shots. Fellow golfers often welcome this self-awareness, it maintains a comfortable pace of play.
6. Don’t let frustration ruin your day
Bad shots are a part of golf (sometimes it feels like the only part), try to let go of the tension and focus on the positives. Alongside mastering the putter, beginners should also become familiar with using a pitching wedge, an essential club for learning how to hit the golf ball effectively. It’s ok to vent but try not to let it affect your next shot.
7. Become a putter professional
While the driver often steals the spotlight (who doesn’t love seeing their ball soar down the fairway), the putter reigns supreme. Mastering your putter improves your ability to secure one or two putts on the course. Over 18 holes this means a considerable difference to your total at the end of the day.
8. Follow these fundamental guidelines and etiquettes.
- The joy of playing golf lies not just in the competition, but in the camaraderie and the personal challenge of improving your skills.
- Keep quiet when it’s someone else’s turn to play.
- Refrain from driving carts, buggies, or carrying bags on the greens.
- While using a golf cart, adhere to the designated cart path routes.
- Wear a collared shirt at the least, unless you’re practicing on the range.
- The golfer with the lowest score from the previous hole tees off first on the next.
- Always allow the person farthest from the hole to take their swing first.
- On the green, the individual closest to the flag removes it.
- If the farthest player from the hole lacks a clear view, leave the flag in place.
Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial as it can significantly impact your golf game, helping you build a confident swing and achieve your score goals.
9. Enjoy the game.
Above all, remember this golden rule. A positive attitude can have a tremendous influence on your game. Not only will it elevate your performance, but it will also allow others playing with you to have a better day too.
Final Thoughts
From mastering your gear and swing to learning correct etiquette and keeping a positive mindset, these tips pave the way for success and enjoyment on the course. Keep swinging, learning, and loving the game, and remember, your progress is the ultimate scorecard. Happy golfing!
