!***** Golf is a game of fine motor skills and discipline. If you don't have the basics mastered, you'll never succeed. Here are 5 golf fundamentals which every beginner should become acquainted.
Are you ready to get serious about the game of golf? If so, you are joining one of the most popular clubs in the world. In fact, nearly 1 million new golfers entered the ranks from 2015 and 2016. What a world awaits you on this journey.
There are over 33,000 golf courses in 209 different nations across the globe. Now is the time to master the basics so that you can compete on any golf course in the world.
Read on to learn more about golf fundamentals. Explore 5 golf fundamentals that every beginner should master.
1. Golf Fundamentals Start With Knowing the Rules
Before hitting the green, you need to read up on the rules of the game. There are far too many rules to learn in just one sitting. Also, each different course may have its own specific rules regarding the field of play.The Rules of Golf are very particular and you are penalized for not following them. There is a rule for everything from the number of clubs in your bag to moving items that are obstructing your swing.
2. Learn How to Score the Game
After reading up on the rules, you have to learn how to score a game. A term called par is assigned to each hole on the course.This is the number of strokes that it will take a skilled player to complete the hole. Par is determined based on the length of the course and its difficulty level. If you complete the hole in one or two strokes less than par, it is called a birdie or eagle, respectively. If you finish in one or two strokes more than par, it is called a bogey or double bogey.
3. Develop Your Stance
Golf is a game of fine motor skills and rigid discipline. Mastering stance is one of the first things to develop in your golf game.You want to set your feet about shoulder-width apart. This allows for an even weight distribution on each foot.
The next step is to slightly bend your knees to allow for flexible lower body movements. The final step is adjusting your hips. Set your hips slightly back to generate momentum for your swing.
4. Keep Your Head Down
Now that your stance is set, it is time to swing. Even the professionals continue to work on their swing throughout their career.A fundamental tip for your golf swing is to keep your head down from start to finish. This will help you hit the ball squarely and avoid shanking the ball off target.
5. Follow Through
Many beginners suddenly stop their swing after contact. This is a mistake and greatly reduces the forward momentum that propels the ball.Instead, you should follow through after making contact. Continue your swing upwards after contact until you reach the back of your opposite shoulder.
Wrapping It Up
Golf is a popular and competitive game with worldwide appeal. While the game is complex and requires a fundamental understanding of rules and scoring, you can quickly become passionate about all things golf-related! If you’re ready to start learning this rewarding and enjoyable sport, start by reaching out to golf pros in your area and schedule some lessons.Justin Kuehn is VP of Marketing for Hampton Golf, one of the top Golf Course Management companies in the United States. When he’s not working he can be found on a golf course getting his swings in.
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