New to golf? Here are 5 tips to make golf less intimidating

Golf can be extremely intimidating when you first start to take a liking to it. There are so many unanswered questions on where to start and how to progress.

At the end of the day, golf is a game. It can get frustrating. You’ll want to quit every other day, but those rewarding shots keep you begging for more. You won’t become Tiger Woods overnight, but the process is humbling and rewarding.

We all were once new to golf. Whether you are working with a coach or trying to navigate the ins and outs on your own, Golfweek has five tips to get you playing confidently and happily.

1
Go to the driving range before the course

The range has several green complexes and bunkers, along with three tiers of grass areas where golfers can hit. (David Dusek/Golfweek)

It may seem like you have to go to a golf course right away to play golf, but you will thank yourself for starting at the driving range. Many golfers struggle to make contact with the ball when they are first starting out, and grinding at the range can save you headaches on the course. Everyone at the range is there to work on their game, so grab a medium or large bucket and get practicing.

2
It’s OK to pick up your ball on the course

Patrick Cantlay reacts after putting inches away from the hole on the 18th green leaving a tap in for the win in the BMW Championship golf tournament. (Photo: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports)

Go out to the course to have fun, and don’t worry about your score. If you are new to the game, your score is going to be high. Hit shots and if things get frustrating or numbers start to get high, pick the ball up and hit a few putts on the putting green or wait till the next hole. Picking the ball up will help you stay happier and not let yourself get into a dark place of frustration.

3
Don’t worry about the group behind you watching

Many golfers are so worried about the group behind or in front of them watching them play golf. The truth is everyone is so worried about their own golf game that they aren’t out there to judge other golfers. Unless you are playing in a PGA Tour event, try to stay calm and focus on the next shot. It’s not worth it to let strangers get in your head and ruin your day.

4
Look good, play good

Billy Horschel of the…