With golf experiencing a bit of a surge in popularity of late, there has arguably never been a better time to take up the game, especially now that many of the stuffy traditions have been rightfully consigned to the past.
That being said, there is still a lot to get your head around if you’re a beginner golfer, including some basic rules that are important to know and other hints and tips that will generally just make your life easier.
With that in mind, we have put together a list of 12 of the most important things to know if you’re new to golf in 2023 or if you’re considering taking the plunge.
1. The basics
Most newcomers will start out at the driving range instead of the course, which is probably the way to go. However, the range is also a place where bad habits can form early and take root, stifling your future progress and potential.
At this early phase, it’s really important to get on top of the basics, like how to grip a golf club, how far to stand from the ball and how wide your stance should be with each club. There are also other things like setting the perfect ball position and honing the proper golf swing posture.
Getting a good grasp of the set-up fundamentals right from the off will save you hours of pain in the long-run and help you lay the foundations of a solid golf swing.
2. You don’t need all the gear
(Image credit: Matt Cradock)
It’s very easy to catch ‘the bug’ when starting out and that can lead people to think they need all the latest equipment to fit in and improve. However, that is not the case. In fact, falling for this trap can actually make it harder to get better.
To begin with, all you need is a half-set, whether you plan on spending most of your time at the range or on the course. The reason this works so well as it gives you a chance to develop your skills as well as a sound technique. Need to hit a shot 100 yards and only have, say, a 7-iron? Well you’ll have to find a way to play the shot, and once you do, you’ll be amazed at how often this ability will come in handy.
3. How the ball goes up
Golf can be described as a game of contradictions and this one might be the most valuable to grasp straight out the gate. As you’ve probably seen on TV, the ball is supposed to go up in the air and fly a certain distance depending on the club. However, to achieve the desired hang time, you need to hit down on the ball.
All too often, beginners lean back and try to scoop the ball into the air, which results in poor strikes and a lack of…
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