CHOOSING A GOLF INSTRUCTOR
Introduction
Golf is one of the more difficult sports to master. Like tennis, bowling, and softball, it’s a sideways sport that uses similar swing motions. However, many people become proficient (or even master) these sports without ever taking a lesson. The same cannot be said for golf! When it comes this game, it’s wise to invest in lessons right from the start.
Dedicate Time to Practice
Golf instructors can teach you the basics, but it will take some practice time between sessions to build and master your skills. Plan to dedicate at least 60 minutes a week to practice what you’ve learned. Often just a club, tee and whiffle ball in the backyard is all you need to practice your swing.
Who Teaches Golf?
Many individuals claim to be golf instructors, but we recommend looking for instructors who are certified by the PGA (Professional Golf Association) or LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association). They have probably been playing and teaching golf for a longer period of time, and they are required to take educational development classes on a regular basis.
What Will it Cost?
In order to attract new golfers to the sport, the golf industry is constantly developing programs to attract new players. This is great news for you, as it means you have many options. The more you are willing to spend, the more individualized instruction you will receive.
GROUP CLINIC ($10 to $50) Clinics typically include four to eight people. Rates are based on the length of clinic and size of the group.
SEMI PRIVATE LESSON ($40 to $100) Sharing the cost with another person can be more fun and less intimidating.
PRIVATE LESSON ($75 to $200) Rates vary based on length of the lesson, use of training facilities, and the teaching professional’s reputation.
GOLF SCHOOL ($500 and up) Golf schools can range from one day to a full week and require a greater degree of stamina than a clinic or lesson. Cost depends on program length, extras (such as meals) and number of on-course playing lessons.
What Will I Learn?
The game is broken down into different types of swings. You'll want to receive instruction on all of them to be equipped for different situations on the golf course.
The FULL SWING uses a player’s full range of motion to propel the ball greater distances. Once the ball is within 50 to 80 yards of the hole, SHORT GAME shots come in to play, as a full swing may overshoot the target. A good short game instruction plan will include mastering CHIP and PITCH shots. These are specialty shots used to avoid hazards and land on the green from shorter distances. The PUTTING stroke is also considered part of the short game and is used on the green to roll the ball into the hole.
Booking Your Lessons
Once you have decided on a lesson format, make a list of golf professionals that teach at times and places that are convenient and within your price range. For suggestions, visit the Women on Course CALENDAR for organized golf clinics, and our MARKET PAGES (found on the left hand side of our Events main page) for a list of instructors in your local area that offer member discounts. You can also check the listings on the PGA and LPGA websites.
Before you sign up for a lesson, visit the instructor's website to learn more about their experience and teaching philosophy. You'll get a pretty good sense of whether their teaching style matches your learning style (visual, auditory, physical), if they enjoy teaching beginners and women, and if they take physical limitations or physical fitness into account.
Ask Questions Before you Commit
A few simple questions will help you choose an instructor who's a great fit for you. Schedule a call and ask:
- How much experience do you have teaching beginners?
- Do you teach using one method, or do you vary instruction depending on the student?
- Do you focus more on verbal, auditory, or physical instruction?
- Do you use swing aids and video analysis?
- Are golf clubs included (if you don’t have a set)?
First Lesson
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your lesson to check in and pay at the pro shop and take a few practice swings. Be open to what the instructor says, even if it feels awkward. A swing change can take up to three weeks to incorporate so practice, practice, practice. Most importantly, be patient with yourself!
Did You Make a Good Choice?
Ask yourself the following questions after your first lesson:
- Did you feel at ease and have good chemistry with your instructor?
- Did they start on time and have the practice area ready?
- Was the instruction clear? Did they use terms you understand? Were they patient? Did they avoid information overload?
- Did they use a variety of teaching methods: verbal, visual, and physical?
- Were you encouraged, or did you leave the lesson feeling like you couldn’t do anything right?
- Did they give you specific drills to practice? Did you see improvement in a relatively short period of time?
- Were they passionate about the game?
- Did they make your learning experience fun?
If the majority of your answers were "yes," then you found the right instructor! Practice in between your lessons, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the golf swing.
