Golf can seem quite complicated to those who have never played the sport or are just starting off. Seeing players on TV doing it right, it is easy to convince yourself that golf is a very simple sport. But many players get quite frustrated when they start playing, almost to the point of quitting.
Well, like any other sport, golf requires patience, training, and proper guidance. Patience is something you will have to cultivate within yourself. Training is a personal drive that you will choose to work on. As for guidance, here are a few tips that should help you improve your golf skills.
1. Take Lessons
Perhaps the best thing about golf is that you can learn it from scratch and become a pro within not so long. As earlier mentioned, you just need to have the drive and the will, combined with a little patience. Even as you look for a good golf trainer, do not forget to utilize instruction guides and the wealth of knowledge available online about the sport. These resources will come in handy when you need tips for choosing the best clubs, accessories, and other golfing equipment. They will also go a long way in propelling your game forward with tips you could use on and off the course to improve your golfing skills.
While at it, remember to interact with professional golfers whenever you get a chance, in-person or on social media. You could learn a thing or two this way. If you need a golf teacher, find one that you will be comfortable relating with. The bottom-line, however, is to keep practicing and taking your lessons as long as you don’t consider yourself a pro.
2. Start with the Short Shots
About half of your first strokes are 50 yards away from the green. That means that you should probably spend half of your time with your wedges and putters. As boring as this might sound, it is crucial. The juicy part is that short-distance golf shots can even be played in your backyard or TV room for practice purposes. Put a few buckets into your yard at different distances and try pitching the ball into them. Just when you get on track, offer yourself good lies and poor lies. As for putting, your carpet surface may not recreate the grass experience, but one thing is for sure. You can still practice shooting and rolling balls through doors and in-between furniture legs.
3. Have Range Routine
As much as the short shots come in handy in getting you where you need to be, you need to go to the field and build on your range. At this point, you have learned which golf clubs to use for which shots, and everything you need while on the course. After training for a while, you will want to see how far you can swing the club and take the ball. However, when you are at the driving range it is good to restrain yourself from starting by ripping drivers. It is okay to crank a couple of them but swinging too much for maximum distance might as well throw you off sync.
You need to begin with the short shots as a warm-up. Afterward, you can proceed to increase the length and speed of your swings. The bottom line is to work your way up to the driver so you remain in sync.
4. When the Learning Gets Tough, Get Back to the Basics
Golf could at times make you worry too much. There is a lot of material out there, and the training may be the most tedious part. If you’re a beginner golfer, you can’t help but read and watch it, but it can be too much. When burnt out from too much swinging and thinking, stick to the fundamentals. Try to get into a good setup, check your ball location and stance, and then make a comfortable swing until completion.
Thinking too much causes tension, so be mindful of your stress level so you’re learning experience is as smooth as possible. Wag a little at the club’s address and try to hit the ball smoothly. Nothing ruins your chances quicker than snapping back the club.
Like any other sport, golf requires you to practice from time to time. Most importantly, it pays to use guides or have someone helping you through. Hopefully, the tips in this piece will significantly help improve your skills as a golfer.
