Golf-Beginner Basics Part I

The popularity of golf has increased tremendously over
the past forty five years, giving us champions like
Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman, and Tiger Woods, and
world-renowned courses like Pinehurst, Augusta
National and the Blue Monster at Doral.

Why has golf become so popular? It’s the opportunity
to be outside, to get a good whole body workout,
network with friends or business colleagues at a
leisurely pace, and to play a game that you can never
perfect.

Your scorecard, over time, shows your improvement,
which keeps you playing again and again.

Here is a very basic lesson in golf for the person who
has no clue about the game.

Golf is played on an eighteen-hole course; each hole
has its "par", which is the number of tee shots
(drives), fairway shots, chips (short hits as you
approach the green), and putts.

The par number is based on the length and difficulty
of the hole. Pars range from 3 to 6. If you get the
ball in the hole in five shots on a par five hole, you
"made par." If it took you six shots, it’s called a
bogie, if you made it in four, it’s a birdie.

There are usually "hazards" of some sort on all the
holes. Bodies of water, sand traps, and trees are
strategically placed to make the hole more
challenging. Beginner golfers should seek to find
courses to play that are easier to play, with fewer
hazards.

Each player keeps their own score, marking the number
of total number of shots for each hole. At the end,
each person adds their scores-the lowest number is the
winner.

It is important for beginner golfers to not take
themselves too seriously. It takes a long time to get
good at this game; even though the professionals make
it look so easy.

Take a lesson or two at the onset; it will help you
develop a proper swing and help you get off to a good
start.

Remember that it’s just a game. Have fun and look at
the big picture-you’re outside and you’re not at work!

How to Choose Golf Shoes

Your swing will change, your accuracy and distance
will improve with practice, and you’ll become deadly
with a putter, but you will always do these things
while standing on your feet.

Your feet need to be comfortable! Have you ever
developed a blister while walking or running? It’s all
you can think about and it ruins the experience. Don’t
let uncomfortable shoes ruin your golf game.

This is one area where you shouldn’t let your
frugality make the decision for you. You will be
wearing these shoes many times and they should be
considered an investment.

Comfort should be your biggest concern when buying
shoes. Your foot should not move at all on your heel
when you walk, yet your toes shouldn’t feel cramped.
Have you shoes professional fit to your feet and walk
around in them before you buy them.

Proper golf shoes should be waterproof so that your
feet remain dry in damp conditions. Good socks are
important too; they will wick perspiration away from
you feet, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.

All golf courses prohibit metal spiked shoes in the
effort to protect their delicate greens. Purchase
shoes that allow you to change the rubber spikes
easily, and while you’re there, purchase some extras.
You never know when you might lose one. Replace the
spikes when they become worn.

With all the things you have to worry about while
playing golf, your feet shouldn’t be one of them. When
it comes to golf footwear, quality counts.