How To Play Golf: 7 Tips for New Golfers!
If you’re a new golfer who’s learning how to play golf, you’ve landed on the right article. Hop in!
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If you're a beginner who’s trying to learn golf from scratch, you’ll come around a lot of geeky guides and lessons; however, there’s no need to baffle your mind with all that stuff!
Although the sport is a bit complicated, all you need is a handful of useful tips to get yourself started.
Speaking of which, today's article encompasses 7 tips on “how to play golf?” for new golfers.
Let’s dive into it!
1. Learn Your Basics!
First things first! To begin with, you need to learn about the basics and the key rules of the sport.
1.1 What Are The Golf Rules?
Golf has many international rules and sub-rules however, learning these important ones will suffice in the beginning.
● A player can carry maximum of 14 clubs in their bag during play
● Play the ball where it lies. You cannot pick up or move the ball
● The player furthest from the hole should hit their ball first
● Tee the ball behind the tee markers or you’ll receive a penalty stroke
● In case, your ball lands out of bounds, you’ll get a two-shot penalty
● In case, your ball goes out of bounds and you can't find it you can play a provisional ball
● If your ball is in an unplayable position, drop it within two club lengths or along the line between your ball and the hole.
1.2 How to Swing?
Swinging a golf club isn’t as tricky as it seems.
Just remember and practice these four easy steps and you’re good to go!
● Hold the club with firm grip, aligning yourself to make a proper stance
● Keep your arms straight, while face your feet forward
● Now, lift your wrists toward the sky and rotate your shoulders, positioning the clubhead over your shoulder
● Hit the ball with solid ball contact
1.3 The Golf Handicap
In order to balance the playing field and allow players of varying skills to play together, a handicap rating is assigned to them.
This rating reflects the number of strokes a golfer typically needs to complete a hole. A lower handicap signifies a more skilled golfer.
As a beginner you’ll start with a maximum of 54 handicap rating.
Learn more about golf handicap by jumping into this YouTube video by Golf Ascending;
How Does The Golf Handicap Work? | 2020 World Handicap Explained
2. Understand Your Equipment
Be mindful of your gear while you're on the golf course because the last thing you want is not having necessary equipment at your disposal!
Here’s what you need.
2.1 Golf Clubs
As you’re allowed to carry a maximum of 14 golf clubs, make sure that you have all types of clubs including putters, wedges, irons, drivers, hybrids and woods.
Additionally, you should be aware when to use a particular type of golf club.
Here’s a YouTube video from Coach Shayain explaining everything about the golf clubs;
14 Golf Clubs Explained - What To Use and When? Beginner Golfer Basics
2.2 Tees & Balls
You need to tee up your ball while taking a shot and that’s why you shouldn't be short of supplies.
I won’t recommend you to waste your money on expensive golf balls.
Buying a box of regular golf balls and a bag of tees is sufficient in the beginning.
2.3 Bag
Because you’ll be carrying 14 clubs and other accessories, buy yourself a useful golf bag before stepping on the course.
2.4 Towels & Brushes
To keep your equipment clean for a better performance, make sure to pack some towels and brushes.
3. The Beginner's Etiquette
Etiquette is of great significance when it comes to golf.
Practicing these etiquettes allows you to inspire respect as a new golfer.
● Stay with your group and be ready to take your turn
● You’ll be expected to socialize but maintain silence and stay behind when someone’s taking their shot
● If someone gets in the way of your shorts, yell Fore! to alert them
● Remove the flagsticks gently to prevent damaging the green
● Repair the ball marks you create after landing on the green
● Don’t look for a lost ball for more than 2-3 minutes
● Allow faster groups to play before you
● If there’re animals on your course, show respect by maintaining your distance
● Follow the dress code
4. Wear The Right Clothes
Speaking of the dress code, golf doesn’t require you to show up in uniform however you’ll need to wear proper golf attire which mainly concerns the following.
4.1 Golf Pants / Shorts
Many golfers find it perplexing to choose between golf pants and shorts!
Do You Wear Pants or Shorts to Golf?
Normally, you're expected to wear pants but there are some golf courses which allow wearing golf shots, particularly in summers.
While choosing the right bottoms for your golf day, look for durability, comfort and proper fit!
Our Top Ranked Golf Pants: MOOSEHill Golf Pants
Crafted from an ultra-light, breathable material, and offered in a range of colors, MooseHill pants prioritize comfort and fashion.
They feature five spacious pockets and a stretchable waistband for added convenience.
Additionally, the precise stitching provides a versatile, tailored fit that you’ll adore.
Pros
● Premium Quality
● Multiple Colors
● Lightweight & Breathable Material
● 5-Pocket Design
● Tailored Fit
Cons
● Not suitable for extremely hot weather
4.2 Golf Shirt
Polos are seen as the default golf shirts however in casual settings you can wear T-shirts as well.
If you’re playing in cold weather, wearing sweaters is just perfect!
4.3 Golf Shoes
Most golf courses will require you to wear proper golf shoes with flat bottoms.
Go for spikeless golf shoes or minimal cross trainers to maintain the spirit of your attire.
5. Master Your Short Game
Most of your time on the course includes putting, chipping and pitching which depends on how strong your short game is!
Adding these shots to the skill set has a huge impact on your overall game.
6. Practice Makes A Man Perfect!
As the old saying goes, the more you practice the more you perfect!
Experienced golfers recommend getting good at various shots rather than mastering just one.
Practice different shots on different days of week to establish a broad skill set.
7. Get Yourself a Coach
As you’re new to golf, there is plenty to learn and doing it all on your own isn’t a piece of cake!
To get on track, it’s advised you learn from experienced golfers.
This helps you maintain a routine and learn fast through live feedback of your progress.
Final Thoughts:
How To Play Golf: 7 Tips for New Golfers!
After reading this article, you’re aware of everything a new golfer should know before stepping on the golf course.
Whenever your mind asks “How to play golf?”, just remember these seven useful tips I’ve explained above.
Once you’re set on the path, your game will step up with time. Practice more and appreciate the joy it brings.
Catch you in the next one!
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