Getting Started In Golf -- Part 1

Born in 15th Century Scotland, golf has grown to be one of the most popular sports in the world. Some universities even offer a major in golf!

Golf is an exciting and fun sport that you can play alone, with friends and spouses, or even with the whole family. However, golf, like many other sports, can be a difficult game to play well and can become quite frustrating and expensive. There is the potential for a major investment of time and money, plus a steep mental and physical learning curve.

Don't rush right out and spend a large amount of money at the beginning. Instead, do some research first: check out your local golf courses, their course fees, the cost of golf equipment, lessons and clothing.

Start small and don't take things too seriously at the beginning. Many pros will advise against spending many weeks on a driving range when first starting out, because they want you to avoid developing bad habits that are hard to break. But, a little time on a range can be a cheap way to find out if you have an aptitude or interest in the game, and give you a rough idea of the types of clubs and balls to use.

Find an inexpensive course and wear comfortable, loose clothing that doesn't bind your arms and shoulders. Save those dollars you'd spend on fancy clothing for later. Start with a simple 3 club set borrowed from a friend or rented from the clubhouse. A 9 iron, a wedge, and a No. 5 wood are plenty. Actually you'll use the wedge less on a driving range, but you can add a putter and move to the putting practice area later. Some even have miniature sand traps to practice escaping!

Relax, observe those who hit well and imitate their grip, stance, and posture. Tee up, keep your eye on the ball as you swing, and give it a firm whack. If you miss a few, so be it. Enjoy. You're teaching your body what the swing feels like, what angle and impact produces what kind of flight.

When on the putting green, start very close to the hole, just a couple feet. Then, after you can make approximately a dozen putts in a row, move back to 6 feet, 10 feet, and 20 feet - but don't go any farther. And remember, even the pros miss a 2-footer from time to time!

Stand so that a casual push won't knock you over when either driving or putting. Balance, concentration and some simple physics all contribute to a good game of golf.

Now, go have a well-deserved cool drink in the clubhouse and enjoy the day.