Trying golf ‘fore’ the first time ever!
Pristinely cut green grass, flourishing trees and tuneful notes from happy blackbirds. It sounds like an idyllic setting for an activity on a spring day – as long as there are no rogue flying white devils!
Previous Golfing Experience
I’ve enjoyed a round or two of crazy golf. I’ve had a fun afternoon playing foot-golf. I’ve even driven a Golf, but I’d never tried the original club and ball sport of golf.
A little birdie told me details about a ladies taster session his golf club were holding, so I signed up to give it a go.
Driving Without Wheels
There were four of us putt-ing ourselves fore-ward for the hour at York Golf Club where we spent the time on the driving range.
Our friendly instructor took us through two key components – the grip and the bend.
The Grip.
My left hand gripped the top of the club and my right hand curled tightly beneath it. I extended my right index finger down the middle of the club to minimise movement in the swing. The grip was all about being controlled, and yet somehow being relaxed too.
The Bend.
Bending slightly forwards whilst not over or under-reaching, the swing needed power from my core. I tried to keep my eyes on the ball with my head facing forward throughout the whole move. Rotating from my hips and letting my arms come behind me, finally swooping the club round to (hopefully) hit the ball.
With those two simple instructions, we were off! It was just a case of repeatedly putting it into practice, learning what worked and what didn’t, and refining with each swing.
Adapting Each Move For A Great Game Of Golf
Our instructor gave us helpful hints that could improve our form.
One of the hardest parts was paying attention to the subconscious minutiae movements my body inadvertently made. Identifying these would help me improve my swing. I was leaning too far forward and overcompensating because I thought I’d moved when I swung the club back. I was also leaning back because I thought the club was going to be too far away from the ball when it swung through.
These were tiny manoeuvres that I didn’t notice, but the instructor could pinpoint them as I either struck the ball too close to the top or too far beneath its centre. Both of these ended up with the ball not quite moving as I intended. When you think about it, it’s a really tiny ball to control. The universal standard for a golf ball is 42.67mm in diameter. Any tiny movements in the swing will make a big difference.
I’m pleased to say I hit the ball! It mostly went in the right direction.
Occasionally it even got a fair bit of air!
A Great Golf Taster Session
The taster session was set up with the aim of having a go and encouraging us to sign up for a ladies academy. This would provide lots of tuition, practice and a mentor. The idea being to eventually move to the green to play on the holes for a round of golf, and finally become fully paid up members.
The great thing about the experience was the constant supply of balls, and not having to retrieve them! It was all about the practice. A luxury that doesn’t happen during an actual game, but a great way to learn.
I’d always considered golf as quite a cliquey thing to be part of. A bit like a nice walk ruined by a stick. Expensive, and with lots of rules and regulations to be followed. Having given it a go, I can see it being quite an addictive and slightly competitive way of spending time outside in lovely surroundings with friends. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and gentle exercise.
It’s not for me at the moment, I can’t commit the time, and it’s just a bit too pricey for me, but I definitely picked up a new found appreciation of as to why so many people take up the sport.
Want To Try It Yourself?
- If you know someone who is a member of a golf club, ask them if they know of any taster sessions, or if they may be able to take you for a try on the driving range.
- Have a look online at golf clubs in your area to see if they do any taster experiences. Golf Shake have a directory of golf courses across the UK
- Take a look for driving ranges near you as you may be able to book them to try out the technique. You can find a directory of driving ranges in the Uk at Into the Rough
Cost Of Experience
- My hour experience was a free taster session.
- Depending on where you try it there may be a charge, and some places want you to sign up to be a member. If you know someone who is already a member of a club they may be able to take you along for a try, or can let you know about costs.
Recommendations
- Take layers, the Great British weather can be changeable!
- Don’t forget sunglasses and suncream!
- Check if there are any dress codes or regulations.
- Take your time. If you keep swinging at the ball it can feel frustrating if it doesn’t do what you want it to. Take the time between each swing to pay attention to what you are doing and learn from it ahead of the next shot.
- Relax, it’s meant to be enjoyable!
- If you can get an instructor, absorb everything they have to tell you, ask lots of questions and have fun!
- Don’t forget your camera!