Need Some Golfing Tips?
by Ken Blaylock
Ever watch golf on TV -- or perhaps a tourney in person? You see crowds of people watching the game, but very few actually playing. And even if you look at those playing the game, most would admit they would like to improve their game.
Why such a poor performance? I believe that it's because most golfers realize that if they are going to improve - really improve - they will have to make some significant commitments. And most are unwilling to do that. But if you are, here are some of my opinions on the game.
First of all, as a beginner you need to concentrate on the fundamentals of the game -- your putting, your stance and posture, your backswing and downswing. You need to master these FIRST - so forget about everything else, and especially all the golfing hype that floats around the clubhouse.
In fact, you need to promise yourself to stay away from the pro shop altogether -- except to sign up for some lessons. Those lessons will help you where you need it most - when you are out on the course. You can't take a training video or DVD out there can you? So don't waste the money.
But if you DO get the itch to buy something, there is one thing that will do you a world of good: a training aid. These are devices that will strap around your hands, feet, legs -- and they will restrict and direct your body movements as you swing and put. Put one of them on and just start practicing. After a while you will forget that you have it on. And long after you have taken it off, your body will remember what you have taught it, and will respond the correct way. A good training aid can become your secret weapon.
What's after that? Well, if you manage to go that far, then you need to head back to the pro shop again. It's time for more lessons from your instructor. He or she will need to check you out to make sure that you have not gotten sloppy -- and they can give you additional instruction in some of the finer points, like playing from the rough, distance putting, sand traps, putting into the wind, etc. Don't think that just one or two lessons from a pro will take you to the next level.
Golf equipment -- big bucks for little return. That's true in most cases -- especially for the beginner and intermediate golfer. So when you are just getting started you can simply rent a set of clubs for your first couple of times out. For your first purchase I would recommend you buy a set of USED clubs. You'll save yourself a ton of money -- and you can put the money you save into lessons with your pro.
My final recommendation is this: Keep the game FUN. Don't get too serious about all of this. Learn to laugh at your mistakes and bad days -- and all of those hilarious shots. If you are busy having fun you will want to play again. And playing again and again is what will help you become good at the game. Trust me - I've lived to tell the tail. Here's to your success!
About the author: Ken Blaylock discusses Sports and Golf Tips Learn more about golf handicap calculators by visiting his website at http://www.golfers-style.com You can get a unique content version of this article.
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