So you want to pick up golf? Golf is a great game because it does not discriminate. Some of the best players in the world are over 250 pounds, and some are under 150 pounds. Some of them are less than 20-years-old and some are over 50-years-old. Some of them, are over 6’4” tall, and some of them are less than 5’7” tall. Golf does not discriminate, you could reach an elite level in this game regardless of your size, shape, or age.

Before you play

If you are planning on picking up golf, first you have to acquire a set of clubs. A full set of clubs has 14 clubs, and costs, on average, about $1500. I recommend all beginners should find a cheap set of clubs for around $350, or less, it does not have to be a full set. After you fall in love with the game you will seek out better club options, and I recommend that you find someone that can get you custom fitted for clubs, to ensure the shaft and club fits your swing speed.

Where to play

There is a wide range of golf courses in North Alabama, and it is important to pick a course that fits your skill set and promotes a fun time for you. There are many cheap courses in the area that are pretty easy. There are also a few more expensive courses that cater to better, more experienced golfers. These courses are usually well maintained so they are picturesque, as well as challenging. Start playing at the easy cheaper courses, and work your way up to the more difficult courses, and if you really love the game joining a country club is a good option.

On Course Tips

-Stop swinging so hard, most amateurs swing the club too hard and get the timing of their swing off. The golf ball will go farther with a slower swing that is properly timed (meaning the upper body and lower body come through the ball at the same time) than a fast badly timed swing.

-Stop aiming at the pins, of course it’s fun to hit shots five feet away, but aiming at pins will often leave you in a bad position for your next shot. The risk far outweighs the reward. Aim at the fat part of the green and make pars if you really want to shoot low scores.

-Play your fade/draw, Play your natural shot shape when possible, whether it’s a fade or a draw. Don’t fight your swing.

-If you can shape the ball consistently, move the ball away from trouble. Only fairly good players can shape the ball consistently, so when you reach that level, move it away from trouble. For example: a draw for a righty moves right to left; let’s say that there is a pin tucked on the right side of the green, with a pond just right of the green. Unless you have a short iron or wedge, you should aim at the pin and hit a five yard draw away from the water. Most players will aim 5 yards left of the pin and try to hit a five yard fade, turning toward the hole, and also the water. It is very easy to over work a ball, so most people that play that shot will hit it in the water. Once again, the risk outweighs the reward.

-Keep stats, you need to keep stats so you know your weaknesses, and where your game needs improving.

-Do not get discouraged. Golf is a hard game, and you will likely shoot a score in the triple digits your first couple times out. Stick with it, it’s worth it.