What could be so hard about golf? You hit a ball into a hole; it looks so easy on television. But what professional make look effortless often seems impossible for beginners.
The beautiful, green courses hide water hazards, sand traps, and other obstacles through which you must hit a tiny golf ball. Your goal is to hit this ball, make it through the dangers, and ultimately land it in a correspondingly small hole. It can be frustrating for people who have a hard time even hitting the ball off the first tee.
Not only is this overwhelming to a novice player, but add in the giant bag of clubs that are all different shapes and sizes, and the game of golf becomes an anxiety-driven punishment. What is a “driver”? What is a “club”? When is each supposed to be used?
Each club is shaped and sized differently, meaning that when it strikes the ball, it will cause a different type of reaction. Drivers, woods, and putters have a purpose in the game of golf, and you should know when and how to use them.
Once you have this down, the game of golf is once again a fun, manageable pastime. The frustration will gradually fade away, leaving a fun and enjoyable pastime.
Firstly, the clubs you use must be appropriate for your stature. Clubs that are too short will leave you with an aching back, and clubs that are too long will leave you chopping into the course.
It is worth a trip to the pro golf shop to get a professional fitting for clubs. This way, you can be sure you have the proper equipment with which to enjoy the game of golf.
But first, a bit about when to use the clubs: When you see the long shots of professional golf players, they are using either drivers or woods. A driver is typically used to start the game so you can put the ball as close to the hole as possible.
Reserve the putter for when you have reached the green. You need to feel comfortable with all three of these clubs, as they can make or break your game.
Golf courses can be intimidating for beginners. Before you start, try a driving range. This allows you to practice your posture, swing, and grip without the pressure of a real game.
Holding the club properly is also very important. You want to hold the club lightly with your dominant hand. Your non-dominant hand is placed on top, with the flat side resting at the end of the club. Your dominant hand will guide your club. Again, it is essential that you have clubs that fit you so you can achieve the proper grip.
Posture-wise, you should stand to the side of the ball. Do not hunch over it or the fluid motion of your swing will be severely impacted.
Keep your arms bent slightly and place the club at the back of the ball. This is the perfect distance between you and the ball.
Another great way to practice before you even get to the golf course is to set up an empty tee in your backyard. Just practice your posture, gripping the club, and the fluid motion of your swing. You will learn to feel much more comfortable and in control of your club.
Besides knowing when you use your drivers, woods, and putters, there are also clubs to help you out when you get to the hazards. You can practice with these at a driving range or in your backyard. When you encounter a sand trap or water hazard in your real game, you will be prepared.
For instance, if you have the misfortune (and you probably will as a beginner!) of landing in a sand trap, you will know to use your sand wedge. These help hit the ball correctly on this type of terrain. Your knowledge of the clubs and the game will help you get out of this trap.
With practice, you’ll gain familiarity with your equipment. Once you understand how each club works, and how you should use them, you can turn the often mystifying game of golf into a relaxing and enjoyable hobby.
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