Golf is not only an enjoyable participatory sport, it can also become a way of life. Many golfers develop an addiction to the game and will play three times a week or more. Since a round of golf usually takes more that four hours, this is a significant portion of time. When learning how to play the game, golfers have to learn how to swing the club, and how to execute the various shots associated with the game.
Step 1
Take a firm full swing when hitting the ball off the tee. However, that does not mean to overswing. Many golfers step up to the tee--particularly the first tee--and simply try to rip the ball as far as they can by swinging hard. That's a significant mistake. A golfer needs a controlled swing that includes the legs, the upper body, a smooth weight shift and a firm swing through the hitting zone when hitting off the tee.
Step 2
Hit behind the ball when you are hitting from the fairway. When you are taking a full swing with a medium or long iron, you want to scrape the ground 2 to 3 inches behind the ball and take a divot before you hit the ball. This will insure that you hit the ball squarely. If your try to pick it clean and don't take a divot, you will most likely hit the top half of the ball and mis-hit your shot.
Step 3
Swing down on the ball when using your pitching wedge or 9-iron on approach shots. In order to make the ball fly high up in the air and land softly on the green, you have to swing down on the ball. The key to hitting the wedge is to take a full swing and not slow down--known as decelerating--while hitting the ball.
Step 4
Read the green before you putt. This is not a complicated process. Crouch down about 8 to 10 feet behind your ball on the green and examine the path it will travel towards the hole. Look for breaks and crevices that may be on that path and make your adjustments. Walk up to your ball and take one practice swing and then putt the ball. Do not take three or four practice swings and don't stand over your putt for more than 15 seconds. That may allow indecision to creep in and that is the putter's worst enemy.
Tips and Warnings
- Practice your swing at least twice a week at the driving range to develop more confidence in your golf game.
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