Avoid Common Mistakes
That Novice Golfers Make!
Making mistakes is an important part of learning how to play golf. However we do not want to embarrass ourselves and feel uncomfortable.
Golf is a great game: sometimes rewarding, often frustrating but highly addictive. Preparation is the key to an enjoyable golf game.
Learn about the game. Books, instructional videos or watching the Golf Channel will help you with the fundamentals. Familiarizing your self with the basics
will enable you to feel more comfortable and knowledgeable. And you will not stick out like a "hay seed"!
Get to the golf course early. Starting times on a golf course are very specific, for example 8:23am. If you miss your scheduled tee time you may be out of
luck on a busy course and may not get to play. Count on traffic/construction delays, and aim to arrive at the course at least 30 minutes before your tee time. You don't want to be rushed! Remember that you must change, pay, get your
clubs ready, and should do a minimal warm up before you start play.
Dress like a golfer. Clothing should be comfortable and conservative. Check with the course to see if a Dress Code is in effect. General rules - For women;
collar and/or sleeves, longer shorts, skirts or skorts, or capris or slacks, For men; dress slacks or long shorts, collar and sleeves.
Stretch and take some practice swings. Golf is a physical activity and a golfers use muscles that are not used in everyday activities. Several stretches and
some easy swings with a club will help your body get ready to play. If you are able to use the practice range, use a short iron to develop your rhythm, then head to the putting green.
Know the do's and don't of golf etiquette. Golfers of every level will play with new golfers provided new golfers know the etiquette. Be silent and still when
a golfer is hitting. Stay out of the golfers peripheral vision.
Keep a good pace, don't saunter along. Walk smartly on the course. Be planning and ready when it is your turn to play. Keep up to the group ahead of you. Golf
courses expect an 18 hole golf game to take 4 - 4 1/2 hours.
These ideas can help new golfers avoid common mistakes. Be focused and enjoy the fun (and frustration) golf can offer. Enjoy the beautiful location
and the ambience of your fellow golfers.
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