Top 10 Tips for Beginner Golfers
As a beginner golfer, there are so many aspects of the game to learn - from swing mechanics to course etiquette to equipment decisions. It can feel overwhelming trying to take it all in at once.
But stick with it! Golf is an incredibly rewarding game that provides a lifetime of challenges and enjoyment. To help smooth out those initial bumps in the road, here are the top 10 tips every new golfer should follow:
- Take Lessons Early: Don't try to self-teach your swing from YouTube videos. Small tweaks from a pro early can prevent developing bad habits.
- Buy Clubs Designed For Beginners: Top of the range clubs by the leading brands may look good in the bag, but they will hinder and demoralise a beginner golfer, due to their lack of forgivness.
- Focus on Setup First: Before even swinging, learn proper grip, posture, ball position, and alignment. Nail the setup and the swing falls into place.
- Prioritise the Short Game: Beginning golfers score better and have more fun by excelling at putting, chipping, and pitching versus long drives.
- Be Prepared for Bad Shots: Golf is humbling! Don't get discouraged by topped, shanked, and hooked shots - even pros mishit occasionally.
- Play Beginner-Friendly Courses: Start off at executive-length courses or par-3 tracks to build confidence before moving to regulation courses.
- Focus on Having Fun: Beginning golf is about learning, not scoring. Don't worry about your score - just enjoy being outside.
- Bring Snacks and Beverages: Golf is dehydrating! Stay fueled with salty snacks and water/sports drinks to avoid fading energy.
- Know Golf Etiquette: Learn the basics of golf etiquette and course conduct early. Respect the course and fellow players.
- Be Patient: Finally, have patience! Golf takes time to learn, but the payoff of hitting great shots is so rewarding.
Follow these tips and you'll be off to a great start as a beginner golfer. The most important thing is to simply get out on the course and make practice a habit. We all started somewhere!