FAQ
A quick reference guide for some of the more frequently asked questions.
About The Game …
Like any sport, golf can be difficult to learn. The game of golf requires a combination of physical and mental skills, such as hand-eye coordination, balance, and focus. That being said, with practice and patience, anyone can learn to play golf. It’s important to start with the basics and work on developing good technique and form. Finding a good instructor and practicing regularly can also help to improve your skills and make the game more enjoyable.
If you’re new to golf and looking to purchase your first set of clubs, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are some tips to consider:
- Buy a used set: If you’re on a budget, consider buying a used set of clubs. This can be a more affordable way to get started, and you can always upgrade to a new set once you become more familiar with the game.
- Choose the right type of clubs: There are many different types of clubs available, but as a beginner, you’ll likely need a driver, a set of irons (usually 6-7), a pitching wedge, and a putter. Many sets also come with a hybrid or two, which can be helpful for longer shots.
- Consider the club’s weight and length: The weight and length of the club can affect how easily you’re able to swing it, so make sure to choose clubs that feel comfortable for you.
- Stick to reputable brands: Stick to well-known and reputable brands, as they tend to be more reliable and durable. There are many affordable brands out there that offer great value for beginners, such as Wilson, Callaway, and Ping.
- Budget: The amount you spend on a set of golf clubs will depend on your budget. As a beginner, you can find a good set of used clubs for a few hundred dollars. If you’re able to invest more, a new set can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Remember, as a beginner, it’s more important to focus on developing good technique and form than on having the most expensive or high-end clubs. So, don’t feel pressured to spend a lot of money on your first set of clubs. With practice and patience, you can always upgrade your clubs later.
Knowing which club to use in any given situation is an important part of playing golf. Here are some general tips for choosing the right club:
- Understand club distances: Each club is designed to hit the ball a different distance. Generally, the lower the number on the club, the farther the ball will travel. For example, a driver is designed to hit the ball the farthest, while a pitching wedge is designed for shorter shots.
- Consider the shot type: The type of shot you want to hit will also impact your club selection. For example, if you need to hit a high shot to clear an obstacle, you may want to choose a club with more loft, such as a 9-iron or pitching wedge.
- Practice and experiment: As you gain more experience, you’ll develop a better sense of which clubs to use in different situations. In the meantime, don’t be afraid to experiment with different clubs during practice rounds to see which ones work best for you.
Yes, it is possible to play golf even if you have physical limitations. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Consult with a doctor: If you have physical limitations, it’s important to consult with a doctor before starting to play golf. They can advise you on any precautions or modifications you may need to take to ensure that you play safely.
- Choose the right equipment: There are many types of golf equipment that are designed specifically for individuals with physical limitations. For example, if you have arthritis, you may want to consider clubs with larger grips or graphite shafts that can help reduce the impact on your joints. If you have back pain, you may want to consider clubs with more flexible shafts.
- Pace yourself: It’s important to pace yourself and take breaks as needed. Playing golf can be physically demanding, so make sure to take the time to rest and recover if needed.
There are no age limits to play golf, and you are never too old to start! In fact, golf is a great sport for individuals of all ages, as it offers a number of physical, mental, and social benefits.
Here are some reasons why golf can be a great sport to pick up at any age:
- Low-impact: Golf is a low-impact sport that can be easier on the joints than other activities like running or tennis.
- Social: Golf can be a great way to socialize and connect with others, whether you’re playing with friends or joining a club or league.
- Mental benefits: Golf can help improve mental focus and concentration, as well as provide an opportunity to spend time outdoors in a natural setting.
- No experience required: Golf is a sport that can be learned at any age, and no prior experience is required to get started.
Ultimately, the decision to learn or practice on your own or with other golfers depends on your personal preferences, goals, and comfort level. It’s also worth noting that many golfers do a combination of both, practicing on their own and also playing with others to learn and improve their game.
While it’s not absolutely necessary to know all the golf terminology and rules before you start playing, it can certainly be helpful to have some basic knowledge of the game.
Knowing some of the basic terminology, such as the names of different clubs and common golfing terms like “birdie” and “bogey,” can help you communicate more effectively with other golfers and understand what they are saying.
Additionally, understanding some of the basic rules of the game, such as the order of play and how to mark your ball on the green, can help you avoid any confusion or penalties on the course.
However, you don’t need to be an expert in golf terminology and rules to enjoy the game. As you play more, you will naturally become more familiar with the terminology and rules of the game.
If you are just starting out, it can be helpful to take a golf lesson or clinic where the instructor can provide you with some basic knowledge of the game, including terminology and rules. You can also find a wealth of information online, including instructional videos and articles, that can help you learn more about the game.
About Training & Lessons …
While it is possible to learn golf on your own, taking lessons can be extremely helpful for golfers of all skill levels. Here are a few ways that lessons can benefit you:
- Proper technique: A golf instructor can help you develop a proper technique and correct any bad habits that you may have picked up on your own. This can improve your consistency and accuracy, and ultimately lower your scores.
- Individualized instruction: A golf instructor can tailor their instruction to your specific needs, taking into account your physical abilities, learning style, and goals. This can be much more effective than trying to learn on your own or through a generic instructional video.
- Course management: A golf instructor can teach you how to navigate the course effectively, including how to read the terrain, plan your shots, and avoid hazards. This can help you play smarter and more efficiently, and can also save you strokes on the course.
- Confidence: Finally, taking lessons can help you build confidence in your abilities and feel more comfortable on the course. This can be especially important for beginners who may feel intimidated by the sport.
Overall, while it’s possible to learn golf on your own, taking lessons can be a great way to improve your skills, enjoy the game more, and ultimately lower your scores.
When it comes to dressing for a golf lesson, it’s important to keep in mind that golf courses and facilities often have dress codes that must be followed. Here are some general guidelines to consider:
- Pants, shorts or skirts: Golfers usually wear shorts or pants that are made of breathable and flexible materials, such as polyester or cotton. Women may also wear golf skirts or skorts. Avoid denim, sweatpants, or athletic shorts.
- Golf shoes: Golf shoes with soft spikes or spikeless soles are recommended to provide better grip on the course. However, if you’re just starting out, athletic shoes with good traction will work for a lesson.
- Hat or visor: A hat or visor can help protect your eyes and face from the sun.
- Dress in layers: Golf courses can be breezy and unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to wear layers that can be added or removed depending on the weather.
Overall, it’s important to dress comfortably and to be prepared for the weather. You may also want to bring a towel, water bottle, and sunscreen to your lesson.
You will be responsible to purchase the range balls for your lesson. You will purchase these upon arrival at the golf course, and then meet me on the driving range. This process can take about 5 to 10 minutes, so I always encourage players to try to arrive at the golf course 15 minutes before their lesson.
If you are unable to make a scheduled lesson, please contact me immediately to cancel and reschedule the best way to contact me would be either to call or text me.
Absolutely! I encourage all players to bring something to drink to keep them hydrated during the lesson. Snacks are welcome as well, don’t forget to bring some for me! Haha
You will need golf clubs for your first lesson. At this time I do not have any rental clubs for players to use, so this will be your responsibility.
You don’t have to purchase golf shoes to take golf lessons or play golf. Comfortable, athletic shoes can work for most players. The only thing I will mention is the benefit of golf shoes is usually they provide better traction on the turf then basketball shoes as an example.
At this time all of my lessons are taught in Windsor.
Lesson demand is very high and as a result lessons are often booked weeks if not months in advance. Players who are part of my year-round programs normally have lessons booked weeks and months in advance. I have often found that it’s easier to book a lesson in advance and reschedule if needed.
All of my lesson programs are year-round programs. At the end of every golf season the player will have an opportunity to review how their season went, assess where they are right now, and make a decision on if they want to continue into the next year.
The CoachNow app can be downloaded from the app store, or it can also be used on a desktop computer.
You will need data or Wi-Fi to access the coach now app. During our lessons however you will not need coach now. I will post a summary video at the end of our lessons to your coach now profile and you will have access to them after your lesson.
You can bring someone along, as long as they’re not going to distract you from your golf lesson. If you’re planning on doing so, I would recommend that you let me know in advance as some days the golf course might be busier than others and certain times may be better or worse to have someone else come along.
Can’t Find Answer?
Contact me for more information about the game or my training techniques. If you are currently enrolled in a training program, we’ll go in depth to answer all your questions during your next session.