USEFUL GOLF TIPS
INTRODUCTION TO GOLF
Golf is no longer the preserve of the rich and famous. Golf is an
exceptionally skilful game and is great way of easing yourself into fitness
or just the social side of the sport. Golfers will tell you how addictive a
sport it can be. It is both enjoyable and annoyingly frustrating at the same
time. A huge drive right out of the middle, followed by a stone cold "top"
will ensure a good deal of hair tearing. However, one thing is certain -
you`ll be back for more!
TIPS, TECHNIQUES AND STRATEGIES
Beginners
Many beginners (maybe from embarrassment) seem reluctant to seek
professional tuition in the game of golf. As useful as instructional books
and DVDs are, there is nothing to beat instruction from a teaching
professional. Experienced teaching pros have seen just about everything, and
no, you won`t be the worst player they`ve ever seen. Every golfing
establishment offer group and / or individual lessons, and these are a
worthy investment. After all, you cannot see your own golf swing.
Advanced Players
Professional tuition is equally important for more experienced players. In
this case it is probably a case of "fine tuning" skills already acquired,
but valuable nonetheless.
EQUIPMENT
Beginners
When starting out in golf, the choice of available equipment can seem
overwhelming. The following seeks to advise the novice as to the essentials
for the game, without spending fortunes. Second-hand clubs can save money,
but also come with inherent problems, such as worn grips etc. The novice is
advised to buy new clubs to negate such problems. There are three main
categories of clubs, namely woods, irons and a putter. Dependent on ability,
a wood is used for any shot over 180 yards. Irons are for medium-range
shots of less than 180 yards. For both woods and irons, the higher the
number of the club, the greater its "loft" (the angle of the face), the
higher the shot trajectory and the shorter the distance that can be
achieved. Pitching and sand wedges are used for short-range shots within 100
yards and escaping from bunkers. The putter is for use on or very close to
the green, for rolling the ball into the hole. For beginners, various
"starter" sets are available. These typically consist of a 3-wood, putter,
and irons numbered 3, 5, 7, 9, and SW. Many such sets often include a bag,
and can set up the novice player reasonably inexpensively.
Advanced Players
As the level of expertise improves, players may wish to extend their clubs
to a full set. However, the straighter-faced clubs such as the driver and 1
or 2-iron are notoriously difficult to hit. Too many players (in the belief
that they have recently become John Daly) purchase 8 or 9-degree drivers,
with which they simply cannot get the ball airborne. There is no shame in a
10.5 or 11-degree driver, if it works!
CLOTHING
The most important item of golf clothing is a good-quality, comfortable,
waterproof pair of shoes. These can be expensive, but are essential
for any, even semi-serious, golfer. Quality, breathable, waterproof
outerwear is also a must for those intending to play in inclement
conditions. These can make great
gifts for the golfer. Otherwise, as long as conforming to dress
standards, the emphasis in golfwear should be on comfort. Contrary to the
belief of many, the golf course is not the catwalk!
