Pick Up Golf

Question: Golf tips for beginners?

(Posted by: firefly on 2009-05-04 11:11:14)

I’m a total beginner at golf, but my coach wants me to practice a round (probably 9 holes). Here’s the thing, I’ve never been on a course before only on driving ranges, and I can probably only hit a driver 140 yards (5- 9 irons vary from 70 – 110). My consistency and direction isn’t that good either, but I really don’t want to look like a complete fool playing. Any tips, golfers? ((: NB; I do take lessons from a pro teacher.

Posted by: GBeck on 2009-05-04, 12:45:19

I remember being nervous my first game, I remember being nervous the last time I played (over a week ago due to weather). I see people on the course every time I play that it looks like it is there first time out. The only time I notice other players is when I am having to wait, otherwise, I am focusing on my own game and don't even think about them. There is an expression that people spend more time worrying that people are talking about them than the time that they really are. Bottom line, don't worry what other people think you look like, we have all been there.

Posted by: tiger7377 on 2009-05-04, 11:37:48

The idea of playing is usually not a source of anxiety for people. first time out on a course I suppose can be a little wierd. When i first started playing ... my dad took me to the course so i can't really sympathize ... cause I never experienced a driving range. My inclination is that you are girl. my wife gets nervous to play golf and it actually causes her anxiety. I'm a pretty good golfer ... so it's probalby hard for me to understand. just remember it's a sport ... and practicing on the course is bout the only way to guage your ability ..

Posted by: Lynn C on 2009-05-04, 12:33:35

You are suffering a little stage fright. Once you tee off of that first tee, you'll be fine. The key to that first shot is to think positive thoughts before teeing up. When you swing, think 50% power and just get it on the fairway. You'll be shocked at how far and straight the ball will go. But If you get all tense and try to really smash the ball, chances are the shot will be short and off the fairway. Take your mind off yourself. No one is going to laugh at you or even think bad about your game. We've all been through the first game jitters and we all hate to look foolish, but golf is the great equalizer. I've even seen the pros whiffle a drive (miss the ball altogether). Relax and enjoy.

Posted by: Joe H on 2009-05-04, 12:42:25

Something you could do before you even get out there is to look over the basic golf rules (i.e., Out of Bounds, penalty strokes, etc.). Another thing is to learn course etiquette. Basic etiquette includes hitting when its your turn only (person farthest away from hole has to hit), dress code (collared shirt, slacks/ shorts w/ o cargo pockets), don't stand in people's way/ line of sight. Probably the best tip for a beginner out on the course is to be respectful of other golfers. Know when to pick up and simply quit a hole (the rule is pick up after 10 shots no matter where you are.) This way you won't ruin the round for others in your group and behind you. Don't take too many mulligans (re-do's) because that also can really slow up the game. Don't look for any golf ball longer than five minutes. Also, have the right attitude out there. Look to just have fun since you are a beginner and go out there with the goal to improve a little each time. As far as actual game/ hitting shots, just try to keep the ball in play and when in doubt go back to the fundamentals (grip, posture, stance). Try not to think too much right before you hit though, because that always leads to screw-ups. good luck

Posted by: Andrew on 2009-05-04, 12:54:44

Everyone who sees you on the golf course will know you are a beginner by the way you play and will accept you for that because not only have they all been there, to a certain extent many of them still are there. You probably won't see too many pros out there or even too many scratch golfers. Everyone has their problems because golf is game that requires constant effort for personal improvement. What they won't accept is a know-it-all but judging from your question I suspect that you are safe in that area. Just have fun. Quietly so that you don't disturb others.

Posted by: Dave on 2009-05-05, 17:14:07

It sounds like you're anxious. You don't have to be the best golfer or play like a pro on your first round. Just go out and have fun. Continue to practice and work on your short game. You'll get better.