Irrespective of whether it's a woman or a man, it is understandable for anyone to be nervous about going to a golf club for the first time. But golf clubs are now extremely good at helping advise potential golfers. Following are some tips about how to start playing.
Build Confidence Have Lessons with a Pro
The first thing to do is find a pay and play municipal golf club which caters for people wanting to try golf. While many have a facility for membership, the club is run for the public and is open to everyone in the community.
It is the job of the club professional, and his staff, to stimulate business and nearly all pay and play clubs advertise different lesson courses. Depending on what type of person you are, you can either try an individual or group lesson. It is sensible however, to try a group lesson for beginners.
The resident professional at most golf clubs is like a good doctor. They are fully aware that you are nervous about playing, and a large part of the lesson revolves around making the novice golfer feel comfortable.
More importantly than just learning to hit the ball, you will be interacting with people in the same position as yourself, and often long-term friendships are forged from group lessons.
Buying Golf Equipment
To begin with there is no need to buy any equipment. The pro will be able to lend you a club, and will advise you about buying clubs when the time is right. You need to wear a comfy flat pair of shoes, and some lose casual clothes. Most golf clubs have a dress code for when playing on the course, but it’s easy to find out what to wear on the golf club website.
No Good at Sport
Golf is a great sport for someone who lacks confidence when it comes to their athletic prowess. Firstly, the golf ball is stationary, which makes it a lot easier to hit. Secondly, golf is not just about power. A delicate touch around the green is just as important.
Almost always the pro will encourage a novice golfer to hit some putts and chips on the practise green. This will not only benefit your game but will give you a chance to study the daily activity at a club.
Normally the putting green is near the first tee and, rest assured your confidence will grow when you watch most golfers hit off.
Take a Friend To Golf Club
If you still are nervous about trying golf, why not take a friend with you the first few times. And don’t restrict yourselves to the driving range, look on the club notice board to see if there are any evening talks about the rules of golf and etiquette.
This will introduce you to life in the clubhouse and, once again, it will give you a chance to meet people. Final advice, don't hold back from asking questions, particularly in the pros shop. The staff really are there to help, and no matter how bad and inept you think you will be at playing, they have seen and helped many worse.
The very best of luck.
Related Article - Etiquette and Rules of Golf for the Novice - PGA Tip
Related Article - How to Prepare for a Round of Golf - PGA Tip
John Hoskison - John is a class 'A' member of the British PGA and author of the acclaimed book 'Inside - One Man's Experience of Prison'.
