Golf can be intimidating for beginners, especially if you’re being pressured by the presence of experienced players around you. There are several rules, different types of clubs, and terms you’ll only encounter in golf. You might ask yourself, ‘What kind of clubs do I need?’; ‘How much practice should I have?’; ‘Should I seek help from a teacher?’; and more because you’re at your starting point.

However, it’s easy to overcome these challenges if you know what to focus on. That said, if you’re a beginner golfer, here are some tips to improve your skills and boost your confidence:

 

• Play With The Right Clubs

 

There’s no doubt that the right equipment can help you develop your skills in any practice. However, some golf beginners start their game by purchasing clubs from a secondhand store or using the club they received from their friends. It’s reasonable to do this, particularly if you’re the type of person who prioritizes affordable sets. But it’s important to know that a club that doesn’t fit your swing can cause you difficulties. 

Thus, here are some things you have to consider when choosing your own set of clubs:

 

• You don’t need a lot of clubs: Experienced golfers carry as many as 14 clubs. But as a beginner, you should only aim for at least 8 to 10 clubs. You only need a driver, putter, sand wedge, a 6-iron, an 8-iron, pitching wedge, and a hybrid, with 18 to 21 degrees of loft or fairway wood. That way, it can be easy for you to select and build up your skills in any situation on the course.

 

 

• Choose a club with more loft: With this club type, you can easily get the ball in the air and lessen its sidespins to fly straighter. Opt for clubs that have 10 degrees of loft and fairway wood with 17 degrees.

 

 

• Use clubs made for beginners: Beginner golf clubs are actually a lot easier to hit than other types of clubs. Since they’re designed for golf newbies, they’re easier to handle and more forgiving if you make the wrong swing. 

 

 

• Choose The Right Ball

 

Before starting, you have to know that you’ll lose balls in golf, so purchase golf balls that cost USD$20 a dozen to save money. For beginners, the most recommended construction of golf balls are one-piece golf balls. These are the most basic and least expensive balls designed for beginners because of their softness and durability.

However, if this construction isn’t the best option for you, here are other standard golf balls:

• two-piece golf balls
• three-piece golf balls
• four-piece golf balls
• five-piece golf balls

 

• Focus On The Details

 

Some golfers tend to advance their swing techniques to rush themselves without learning the basics. However, you have to remember that you still have to master the basics to get out of trouble on the course. You’ll need patience because there’s no easy way. The following are the details you have to pay attention to:

 

• Grip: Ensure that you’re comfortable while gripping the club. Start with a neutral grip first until your swing develops.

 

 

• Balance: Having good balance is a golfing fundamental. You can do this by equally distributing your weight with both your feet.

 

 

• Stance: Just like balance, your stance is also critical. Keep in mind that a proper stance is balanced, comfortable, and athletic. To do this, keep your feet a shoulder width apart with your knees bent.
  

• Tempo: Although this is one of the overlooked basics, having a great tempo is important as well. Most golfers who swing in a relaxed fashion are great ball strikers. Thus, don’t swing like you’re in a hurry.

 

 

• Take Lessons from a Pro

 

Finding an instructor can also help speed up your improvement. Teaching yourself using instructions from the web, TV, or book is not as effective as having a one-on-one lesson from a pro, and sometimes, it can even lead you to bad habits. Therefore, seek help from a teacher that is knowledgeable and committed enough to improve your skills.

Golf courses usually have at least two pros on their staff. If you’re willing to spend money and time on this new sport, take advantage of these lessons since their help can help you take your game to the next level. They mainly focus on helping you with your grip, balance, stance, tempo, and more. In fact, they can even work with your pitching and chipping skills.

 

• Set Goals But Don’t Pressure Yourself

 

Of course, as a beginner, you need to set goals so that you can have the motivation to improve yourself. Start with simple goals, and as you get better, you also need to make your goals challenging. It’s all right if you’re going at a slow pace. Don’t feel pressured by other golfers around you. Keep in mind that this is an individual game.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help from someone if you find something difficult. Finally, remember that everyone was a beginner, but they were able to improve through patience and determination. 

Takeaways

There are a lot of things to learn and experience along the way. Amid all the rules of golf and these tips discussed, don’t forget to enjoy the game, be patient, and work hard until you succeed.