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Beginner’s Guide to Starting Golf

ByMichael Reeves

← Golf Gameplay & Rules | Golf Gameplay Pace and Etiquette


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Quick answer

  • Grab the essentials: a few clubs, balls, tees, and comfy clothes.
  • Get a lesson or two to nail the basics.
  • Learn the unwritten rules of the course.

Who this is for

  • Anyone who’s curious about golf but has zero clue where to begin.
  • Folks looking for a new way to get outside and have some fun.

What to check first

  • Attire: Collared shirt and golf-appropriate shorts or pants. No jeans, no problem.
  • Clubs: Make sure you have at least a driver, a couple of irons (like a 7-iron), and a putter. That’s your starter pack.
  • Balls: Grab a sleeve or two. Doesn’t matter if they have a few scuffs when you’re learning.
  • Tees: Essential for getting that ball up in the air.

Step-by-step plan: Getting started with golf

1. Acquire essential beginner golf clubs. Action: Find a starter set or pick up a few key clubs. What to look for: A driver, a mid-iron (like a 7-iron), and a putter are your minimum. Mistake to avoid: Don’t go overboard buying a full, expensive set right away. You’ll upgrade later.

2. Purchase golf balls, tees, and a glove. Action: Grab a dozen balls, a handful of tees, and a glove if your hands get sweaty. What to look for: Enough practice balls so you don’t stress about losing them. Mistake to avoid: Forgetting tees. They’re small but mighty important.

3. Find a beginner-friendly golf lesson or clinic. Action: Sign up for a lesson with a PGA pro or find a local clinic. What to look for: Instruction on grip, stance, and the basic swing motion. Mistake to avoid: Trying to teach yourself solely by watching YouTube. You’ll build bad habits.

4. Practice your swing at a driving range. Action: Hit some balls at a local range. What to look for: Feeling the contact and getting a sense of your swing. Mistake to avoid: Swinging as hard as you can without any thought. Focus on smooth tempo.

5. Learn golf etiquette and basic rules. Action: Read up on common golf courtesies and the fundamental rules. What to look for: Understanding pace of play, repairing divots, and basic scoring. Mistake to avoid: Being that person who holds up play or doesn’t know how to mark their ball.

6. Play your first round on a short course. Action: Book a tee time at a par-3 course or a shorter executive course. What to look for: A relaxed atmosphere and holes you can actually reach. Mistake to avoid: Heading straight to a challenging championship course. That’s a recipe for frustration.

Common mistakes

  • Buying expensive, advanced clubs — Why it matters: These clubs are designed for experienced players and can be difficult and costly for beginners. — Fix: Start with a beginner set, a used set, or even borrow clubs.
  • Not taking lessons — Why it matters: You can develop ingrained bad habits that are tough to break later on, costing you strokes and enjoyment. — Fix: Invest in at least a few lessons from a qualified instructor.
  • Going to a difficult course too soon — Why it matters: Unfamiliarity with the course and its challenges can lead to a demoralizing experience. — Fix: Start on shorter, more forgiving courses designed for beginners.
  • Focusing too much on score — Why it matters: Obsessing over your score in the beginning takes away from learning and enjoying the process. — Fix: Concentrate on making solid contact and having fun. The scores will come.
  • Ignoring golf etiquette — Why it matters: It shows respect for the course and other players, making the game more enjoyable for everyone. — Fix: Familiarize yourself with basic courtesies like pace of play and repairing your ball marks.

FAQ

  • What are the essential clubs for a beginner?

You really only need a driver, a mid-iron (like a 7-iron), and a putter to get started. A sand wedge is also handy.

  • How often should I practice?

Aim for consistency. Even one range session a week or hitting a few balls in the backyard makes a difference. More is better, but don’t burn yourself out.

  • What is the typical cost of starting golf?

It varies, but you can get a starter set of clubs for $300-$600, balls and tees for $50-$100, and lessons can range from $50-$150 per session. Playing fees vary by course.

  • Do I need to wear specific golf clothes?

Most courses require a collared shirt and golf shorts or pants. Keep it neat and clean, and you’ll be fine.

  • How long does it take to get decent at golf?

That’s the million-dollar question! It takes time and practice. Some people pick up the basics quickly, others take longer. Focus on improvement, not perfection.

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