Advice for a noviced golfer.

[Ian Gentles]

OK got the clubs very cheap second hand. But what is best wat to start, concidering i havent much cash, ere none in fact lol, to spare. Cheapest nine hole golf course round here is £11.00 green fees, which is cheap for London. I want an outlet that takes me out in freshish air , well it is London, and gives me some exercise. So NazNet golfers, any tips, advice, will be gratefully reveived!

[Mark Doble]

Ian,
Never take your game serious. If you blast it into the bush, so be it.
Never put your name on your golf balls as you may be held responsible for the damages!
Never take anyone better than you...
Go and have a fun time at it.

After 15 years I gave it up.

[Jim Severns]

I've wanted to take this up for years, but time hasn't permitted.

Here in the USA we have many public golf courses, often in city or state parks that are very inexpensive to play. Some offer near give-away prices at odd tee times.

I have been told by more than one golfer that a beginner should start out with a few sessions at a driving range, rather than start in on a full 18-hold course. The idea was to develop some driving skill before hitting the links.

Here's hoping you enjoy your entry into the brotherhood of they that thwack the dimpled orb!

[Marg Webb]

I agree with Jim. Find a Driving Range.
You will be able to control the ball better when you get on the Golf Course. Also the people behind you will appreciate you more as you will be able to drive straighter and move faster. Keep your chin down and your knees bent.:):) Have a great time.
Marg.

[Brian Hammons]

Ian:

I am also taking up golf. I am surrounded by seasoned golfers, and many of them have given me great tidbits of advice and information. Here are some of them, in no particular order.

1. Yes! Go to the range. NO! Do not start with your driver. Spend the majority of your time working with mid- to short irons. . .these shots will comprise most of your game. Without lessons or feedback from someone who knows what they are doing, poor technique is easily engrained when you concentrate on your driving game.

2. Take lessons. . .even if it is just one lesson. If you can find 2 or 3 others, join forces for a group lesson. Find a knowledgable friend who can swap you a lesson for a coke/cup of coffee.

3. Check the library for instruction books. Don't become a bookworm about golf techniques, but pick out one and use it.

4. The golf magazines are a great resource. Most have instructional articles by professional instructors. A couple of the more acclaimed instructors, at least here in the US are David Leadbetter and Butch Harmon.

5. Don't be afraid to leave the range and to get on the links.

I'm looking forward to hearing your anecdotes on your progress, and most of all, your photos of Carnoustie and the old course when you reach that pinnacle of your new-found hobby

http://www.thegolfchannel.com
http://www.golfdigest.com

[Ian Gentles]

Ian:

I am also taking up golf. I am surrounded by seasoned golfers, and many of them have given me great tidbits of advice and information. Here are some of them, in no particular order.

1. Yes! Go to the range. NO! Do not start with your driver. Spend the majority of your time working with mid- to short irons. . .these shots will comprise most of your game. Without lessons or feedback from someone who knows what they are doing, poor technique is easily engrained when you concentrate on your driving game.

2. Take lessons. . .even if it is just one lesson. If you can find 2 or 3 others, join forces for a group lesson. Find a knowledgable friend who can swap you a lesson for a coke/cup of coffee.

3. Check the library for instruction books. Don't become a bookworm about golf techniques, but pick out one and use it.

4. The golf magazines are a great resource. Most have instructional articles by professional instructors. A couple of the more acclaimed instructors, at least here in the US are David Leadbetter and Butch Harmon.

5. Don't be afraid to leave the range and to get on the links.

I'm looking forward to hearing your anecdotes on your progress, and most of all, your photos of Carnoustie and the old course when you reach that pinnacle of your new-found hobby

http://www.thegolfchannel.com
http://www.golfdigest.com

Thank you very much, this all seems good advice indeed. I personaly woul;d have been tempted to concentrate on driving, so that bit of advice is very good indeed. Many thanks.

[Ron Davis]

My co-workers begged me for months to go with them to the driving range on my lunch hour. I repeatedly told them how horrible I was at golf. Finally I agreed to go.

They haven't invited me since.

[Ian Gentles]

My co-workers begged me for months to go with them to the driving range on my lunch hour. I repeatedly told them how horrible I was at golf. Finally I agreed to go.

They haven't invited me since.

FOFLOL, i needed that laugh! :)