Golf Instructions for Beginners

The game of golf is played on a green 'course' with 9 or 18 holes spread throughout the area. It is the only game which does not have the constraints of standard dimensions for the playing area. The aim of a golfer is to hit the ball into the holes in minimum number of attempts. A golfer who completes all the holes in the least number of strokes wins the game. The position of the ball, like whether it is in the sand or bushes should not matter to the golfer. Winning the game simply requires guiding the ball into the hole by means of a club, and this needs to be done in less number of shots than the opponent(s).

There are some basic golf tips which can help you start practicing or playing golf.

• Decide on a suitable course to play on and get some standard but low-cost equipment. It is always preferable to judge your interest for some period, learn the basic skills and proper use of the equipment, and then go on to buy costly or the best golf clubs.
• The elementary practice can also be done in driveways equipped with putting greens or house backyards.
• In order to start with the first step, the golfer should stand with his non-playing side in the direction of the hit.
• The club and body should be parallel to an imaginary line from the hole to your spot.
• When you aim to hit a long distance shot or make a 'putt', a closed stance should be used, whereas for a short range hits a more open stance should be adopted.
• When using irons or putters, the feet should be shoulder-width apart. They should be narrowed for short irons and wider in case of woods and long irons.
• In the same way, the position of the ball is also crucial for maximum effect on a shot. In case of putters and short irons, the ball is positioned right in between the player's stance. For a middle iron, it should be a little further, and even more long in case of a long iron or woods.
• Again, the shifting of the weight or body balance is a very crucial aspect of good stroke making. A shorter club requires shifting the body weight on the front leg completely, mostly on the front leg for a medium-sized club, but should be balanced for a long shot.
• A golfer should hit the ball using a proper gripping method, so as to adjust his shot.
• If the ball is to be hit over a long distance, a golfer should 'drive' the ball. In order to make a medium-range effort, he should use a shot called 'approach'. A 'chip' is used for a relatively short distance, without rolling it on the surface, while a 'putt' shot is used to put the ball in a near hole or as close to it as possible.

Few Important Tips

• Use golf clubs that are appropriate for your size. Take advice from your trainer or a person who is well-versed with the game before purchasing and using the equipment.
• There should be ample time devoted to the practice sessions along with the training sessions.
• A correct stance and good body posture is absolutely vital in golf to derive maximum result from each shot, without twisting or injuring any part of the body.
• Always make it a habit to perform warm-up drills before any session of play. It is natural for beginners to experience some strain or aches at the outset. Regular exercise will keep you away from serious injuries.
• A very good way to familiarize yourself with the clubs and handling, especially with the golf swing techniques is to practice in a backyard or driveway, before venturing out onto the main course.

As you move up the ladder of excellence, there would be success and failures, which cause extreme joy and disappointment. The important thing is to realize that it just a game and your aim should be getting better at playing golf. Other related things automatically follow later.