Learn to Golf
Getting Started Playing Golf Is Easy - Get Out And Try It!
Please Scroll Down The Page For Some Basic Tips On Getting Started Playing Golf
image credit Jurgen Kaminski/BC Golf
Juniors and Teachers
- For juniors, there are a number of programs offered by the golf industry to get started. For a description of the First Tee program, read more here
- Teachers, to learn more about the Golf In Schools Program, click HERE or email Tyler McKay
- There are several national and provincial organizations that have developed learn to golf programs for Juniors. These include the First Tee Program, Get Golf Ready, TPI and Canucks Junior Golf Week
- Check with your local facility for a list of these programs offered by golf facilities
- There are also many facilities that have developed their own programs for Juniors, check with a golf facility near you and simply ask to get information on their Junior Golf Programs
Adults
Almost all golf facilities offer some form of beginner programs. The following link has a listing of the programs at leading golf facilities.
Facilities With_Adult_Programs.pdf
Most adults have at least some familiarity with the game from watching it on television or trying it when they were younger. Most of us have also been to a mini-golf course and tried our hand at putting our way through the mazes and around the corners or may have played in a fun or charity event at some time.
If you are completely unfamiliar with the game and want to try it, the best place to start is at a driving range. There are free-standing driving ranges in most communities and many public golf courses also have ranges.
Most will rent you a couple of clubs to try, or better yet, go with a friend who can loan you a club or two and also give you some pointers about the basics of the golf swing. Remember its not how far you hit the ball, but how well. Swing easy and in control, don't try to kill the ball.
image credit Jurgen Kaminski/BC Golf
If you don't have a friend to take you to a driving range, you can still try it out. Just watch someone else for a bit who seems to be hitting the ball well - you'll know this when you see it. Golfers are a kindly lot and you'll probably end up getting some free advice.
You'll probably have some fun even the first time out and take pleasure when you do hit a good shot. Start with high number irons such as a 9 iron or pitching wedge and use a partial swing. Again, it's all about how well you hit the ball (consistent direction and distance) and not just how far. Small swings to start.
If you are ready to take the game a little more seriously, it's time to take lessons. Many golf professionals at driving ranges and courses offer new golfer packages at a very good rate - they want to get you introduced to the game. Often clubs are included in the package. The least expensive way to get started is with group lessons and a group of 4 - 6 people is no impediment to learning the game.
A package of about 10 lessons should be enough to get you started with the basics and from there you can increase your skill through regular visits to the range. When you are hitting most of your basic clubs reasonably consistently you're ready for the next step.
Par 3 or executive level courses are shorter courses, sometimes only 9 holes in length. This is where you can make the switch to hitting off grass surfaces rather than mats. It makes a difference, so don't get discouraged. Again you'll want to progress to the point where you are hitting consistent shots.
At this point, it may be time to go back for some group lessons. From there, its on to regular courses and you're on your way.
Really, it's all about what it is in the game of golf that you like – is it a way to be with family & friends, or is there a challenge to be the best you can be or is it simply to be out in nature, all of these are great reasons to enjoy being out on a golf course. Everybody plays for different reasons and if golf can peak your interest you'll develop a real love for the game!
Here are some resources to follow up with.
Here are some good books:
- Golf Handbook The Complete Guide to the Greatest Game
- Golf For Dummies
- Good Golf Made Easy For the Complete Beginner
And a couple written specifically for women who may be new to golf:
- Feeling Naked On The First Tee: an essential guide for New Women Golfers
- Girl's On-Course Survival Guide To Golf