Golf can seem highly intimidating for those just picking up the game. It is true that to become a scratch (0 handicap) golfer you need to learn and master many aspects of the game. However, you can produce a plenty good enough swing to get around the course by learning a few principles.
Stance
Ball Position
Alignment
Grip
Backswing (Turn)
Transition at the Top
Downswing (Turn) and Follow Through
The links below will give you a general idea of each principle, but what is the best, fastest, and easiest way to learn them?
Of course the best way is through lessons with a golf teaching professional, but that literally comes with a cost ($$$). Private golf lessons from a teaching professional can be expensive. Even in my rural area, lessons from the PGA teaching professional at my local municipal course cost $60 an hour. That’s a lot of money for many beginner golfers, considering you’re going to need multiple lessons.
One of the goals of Shooting 90 is to show golfers how to make golf more affordable. One way is to get lessons at a vastly reduced rate by taking group lessons. Get a couple beginner friends and a one hour group lesson is only $20 each.
Better yet, every year, a local course conducts a 5 week summer program they call Golf 101. For $135, you get a one and a half hour long group lesson each week followed by 9 holes with a cart. You can do the math. It’s an incredible deal! There are programs like this at many courses.
There are even ways you can learn these basic golf principles by spending next to nothing.
Go out for the golf team if you are in high school! Depending on how competitive your school is in golf, you may not get to go to many or any golf meets, but for a small activity fee you will get a lot of instruction and practice time on the local range and course.
Another way to learn these principles is by practicing and golfing with a good golfer. Ask a friend who is a good golfer to show you a few things on the range. After you know the basics you’ll be able to join them on the course. Watch them and learn! The key to this way is to make sure your friend is actually a good golfer who knows what they’re talking about. The last thing you want to do as a beginner golfer is learn bad habits! That’s also why you should never take unsolicited advice on the range or course from strangers.
Finally, it is possible to self learn basic golf principles at no cost by watching YouTube videos. I’ll get roasted for even suggesting this, but it is entirely possible. Just be sure to do your research and find a reputable online instructor. Watch several different YouTube instructors to begin with until you find one whose teaching style and terminology best connects with you. I’ve been able to improve my game in several areas through social media. Here’s a hint. You’re about to see a few great YouTube instructors in the links below!
I hope I’ve shown you a few viable ways to learn the basics of the golf swing, enough for you to get out and enjoy golfing!
Stance
Ball Position
Alignment
Grip
