How to start playing golf

So, you feel like giving golf a try?

That's GREAT news – you won’t regret it (promise)

But let’s be honest, it’s not the most straightforward of sports to take up.

Below is a very brief rundown of how to take up golf, and the things you will need to consider along the way.

We’ll go into WAY more detail in future articles too.

What are the benefits of golf?

• Improves mental wellbeing
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Helps maintain mental alertness and
• Enhances your physical Fitness
• Provides a super enjoying way of exercising
• Promotes weight loss
• Enables you to enjoy a competitive sport whatever your age or fitness level
• Provides a social environment to make new, like-minded friends and partners

What do you need to do before taking up golf?

• First, look for a club or golf range within a reasonable distance from your home
• Enquire about the facilities for newbies – for instance does it have an academy?
• Meet the Pro – is he/she someone you feel comfortable with?
• Ask about how much the individual/group lessons are – are they within your budget?
• Golf clubs – a second hand set is sufficient for a beginner – ask the pro if he has any available or advice on what might be acceptable via the web. Some pros may have spare clubs that you can use for lessons prior to purchasing a set of your own
• If you choose lessons at a golf range, no special clothing is normally required but you may decide to invest in a comfortable pair of golf shoes.
• But, if you have lessons at a golf club (not just a range), then you should ask about their rules for golfwear and shoes – these may differ from club to club

Things to consider when choosing a golf club:

• How many current women members there are? - this will give you a good idea about the club’s attitude to female golfers.
• Are there good facilities for the women members?
• Is there a short course for beginners? If not, is there somewhere suitable you can practice and work on your skills?
• Are the current female members welcoming? - Asking around might help you with this.
• Are there good practice facilities?
• Does the club provide good social facilities – for instance a nice bar or restaurant?
• Are there halfway house facilities? (A lot of us like a loo break after 9 holes!}
• Does the club run a buddy system? – This is super useful. Your buddy is someone who you can call on to ask any questions you may have about the golf club or the processes that need to be followed, such as how to properly enter your scorecard.

Aside from how to play, you will also need to be prepared to learn: 

• The rules and etiquette of golf
• Course management techniques
• How to get a handicap and maintain it

(We’ll go into all these in future articles so don’t panic 😊)

It might sound like a lot to take in, but you'll get used to it so quickly. Most golfers will also jump at the chance to explain the various aspects of their favourite sport to you and help you take it up. We're sure you won't be short of members who are willing to assist you on your journey.

Once you start, you'll be absolutely hooked!

If you have any further questions, please get in touch.

Head to the Beginners instruction part of our website to help you get started.