Beginner’s Golf Tips I
By: Gregg Bisson
[Posted by Yuki Shimazu]
1. Take time to orient yourself with the uses of each club. Many amateurs choose a club based on length, opting for longer clubs when they are further from the hole. Before choosing a club, however, players should consider personal tendencies, hazards, and the wind.
2. Forge a plan for the rest of the hole before taking a shot. Sometimes driving the ball close to the hole is not the most effective option. If major hazards stand in your way, two mid-range shots give you more control than a long and a short shot.
3. Ensure that you properly align each stroke by standing behind the ball and gaining a clear perception of the target. Set the clubface directly at the ball, and align it to your target before assuming your shooting stance. Never try to align your feet at the target or force your shoulders parallel to it. Allow your body to assume its natural positioning once you align the clubface.
4. Play with the wind, using it to your advantage. Compensating for heavy wind with increased shot power never results in a good shot. Instead, adjust your shot to work with the wind. For example, if the wind blows from left to right, hit the ball to the left and let the wind naturally carry it to the right. Playing with the wind requires significant practice and great judgment so experiment as much as possible and strive for consistency when playing a game.
5. You will never become a great player without a solid golf grip. The key to a great grip is finger placement. Your thumb and index fingers on each hand should form a V that points toward your shoulder. To start, hold the club with your gloved hand and let it lie between the first knuckle and the palm. Wrap your other hand comfortably around the gloved hand and let the two Vs form naturally. Aim for a firm grip, but never squeeze the club. For more insight on grips, check out the following video:
[Posted by purepointgolflessons]
Beginner’s Golf Tips II here
