Golf ‘Tips’ for Beginners, by a Beginner

“I have to believe in myself. I know what I can do, what I can achieve.” - Sergio Garcia

We all have to start somewhere!

Let’s get this disclaimer out of the way.  I have been playing golf less than a year.  I am coming at this from the opposite direction as Sid, who is a lifelong player.  This is more from my own personal experiences learning this incredibly fun, challenging, and rewarding sport.  I will try to be as noob friendly as possible.  

Before You Swing

Golf Etiquette Essential Must Knows

• Pace of Play: Keep up with the group ahead and let faster players "play through." Arrive on time for tee times or people can get very snitty with you.

• Silence During Swings: Shut up and be still while others are hitting to show respect and aid concentration.  Unless it’s your mate and you’re trying to intentional ruin his game, then it’s all on.  Just kidding.

• Course Care: Repair divots (patches of turf), rake sand bunkers after hitting out of them, and avoid damage to the greens.

• Safety First: Be aware of surroundings, check before swinging, and use the universal warning call "Fore!" if a ball heads towards others.

• Basic Attire: Most courses have dress codes (e.g., collared shirts, specific shorts/trousers, golf shoes). Check beforehand.  Generally, the more expensive the course fees, the more formal the dress standard.

Choosing Your First Clubs

I remember talking to Sid about this when I first started researching golf, as I thought I would need a full set.  You don’t.  Not as a beginner.  A beginner doesn't need a full 14-club set immediately.  Focus on a few key clubs: a Putter (essential), a few Irons (e.g., 7-iron, 9-iron, Pitching Wedge), and perhaps a Fairway Wood or Hybrid.  A Driver can wait (full disclosure: I didn’t, but I know better now).  Considering a beginner package set or good-quality used clubs as cost-effective options.  "Getting fitted" can be considered later as skills improve.

Swinger Up

The Grip

Use one common grip type simply (e.g., the overlap grip).  Hold the club lightly, not tightly ("like holding a bird").  Again, I have a lot to learn, but this is for beginners.

The Stance

Stand with feet about shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, maintaining balance throughout the swing.  Bending the knees slightly will greatly assist in getting that flex in your swing and avoid rigidity.

Alignment

Aim the feet, hips, and shoulders parallel to the intended target line.  Use a club on the ground during practice as a visual aid.  This was a tip I got from my first golfing lesson.  Some people use fancy alignment sticks.  Just use a club on the ground.

Basic Swing Motion

Focus on a smooth, rhythmic motion rather than hitting the ball hard.  It’s the rhythm that makes the shot, not trying to finish the swing with a power strike.  Just take the club back (backswing), swing down towards the ball (downswing), and continue the motion after impact (follow-through).  Start practice with shorter, easier-to-control clubs like wedges or short irons.  You’ll be surprised how quickly the motion starts coming to you.

Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfection

The Driving Range

This is where I have spent well over half of my current near yearly life in golf.  It is so much fun.  Practice full swings without the pressure of a course.  Set goals for each session (e.g., focus on grip, stance, or making solid contact) rather than hitting balls aimlessly, despite that being ridiculous fun too.  Practice with different clubs from your beginner set.  This is also great fun with friends and family.

The Putting Green

I do this in the backyard.  I bought a cheap little putting mat and use that to practice.  Many strokes are taken on or near the green, and you need to master your putt putt game.  Use a basic putting stroke (simple back-and-through motion).  And if you want to get your putting practice in while having a blast, go play some mini golf with friends or family.

Consider Lessons

I did a lot of golf practice by myself, getting tips from Sid’s blogs, and watching YouTube/TikTok videos.  One thing Sid recommended to me that I wish I had taken up earlier was to just start with a one off lesson.  I got a one hour lesson at my local driving range and boy it was an eye opener.  Taking a lesson from a qualified instructor is valuable to learn correct fundamentals early on.  Seriously, if you are at all interested, at least get one lesson in.  

Get Real, Have Fun

Golf is challenging and improvement takes time and consistent practice.  It can be a daunting sport at first, and often frustrating, but perseverance yields rewards.  Focus on small, achievable improvements (short-term goals) rather than expecting perfection immediately.  Embrace mistakes as part of the learning process.  Focus on the current shot, not past errors or future holes.  Enjoy being outdoors, the social aspects, and the personal satisfaction of progress.  Most of all, enjoy the fresh air and wide open spaces.  Golf is fun, enjoy yourself!

If you're getting a real love for the game, be sure to check out Sid's extensive range of blogs on every aspect of the game to help you with yours.