Golf Basics: Simple Tricks to make Golf Easy

To become a golf expert, you need to slog out hours on the green, practicing your putting and working on your handicap.

This article introduces you to the basics of golf. Hopefully, it will leave you inspired enough to put together your first golf kit. 

Golf Basics for Beginners

Let us quickly understand the fundamentals of the game with some important golfing tips.

• Common golfing terms: 

1. Tree box: Wood or plastic peg that golfers can use to hit a shot at the start of the game. To tee off is to begin the game.
   
   
2. Putt : Any shot taken with the putter, while on the green.
   
   
3. Green : The last stretch of the game that becomes challenging with very short, smooth grass and other contours. Reaching the green under par is the goal.
   
   
4. Par : Number of shots a golfer should require to finish an individual hole. If the par is four shots for a course, and a golfer finishes it in three shots, then it is under-par
   
   
5. Birdie, eagle, albatross: When a player completes a hole, one under par, two under par, and three under par, respectively. 
    

• Grip the club the right way: To hit a perfect golf swing, the first thing to work on is your grip. A good grip gives you control and impacts your performance significantly. Also, to hit straight shots, pay attention to your hand placement and grip pressure . 
  
  
• Strike a solid stance: How you stand determines the power and angle of the swing. Proper posture, foot placement, ball alignment and body position are critical for body balance and control.
  
  
• Get the swing right: Swing the club with all your body, and not just your wrist. Hit the ball at the right angle and technique. Maintain a good rhythm for the right swing – do remember, keep your balance to get consistent ball shots. 
  
  
• Gear up with some essential golf equipment: Choose your basic set of beginner golf clubs wisely. Your golf kit should comprise of a driver, putter, sand wedge, hose along with a 6-iron and 8-iron. Go for hybrids over 3-, 4- and 5- irons. Go for woods with more loft. Switch to a two-piece ball for better durability. Spiked water-proof golf shoes add to the extra grip. Throw in some gloves and tees into your golf bag, and you are all good to go.
  
  
• Don't skip your warm-up routine: A great drill kicks off a good round of golf. Practice putting on the green and stretch yourself a bit to prep your mind and body. Take time off for a full swing warm-up to improve your score.
  
  
• Polish your etiquette: Arrive at the course early. Look around and avoid hurting people with your swings. Do not talk during another player's swing. Practice your technique, follow cart rules and do not tread on the grass with your golf cart. And yes - when your shot goes astray, shout out 'Fore' so that people can duck and avoid getting hit.  
  
  
• Boost your mental game: Golf is an intellectually demanding game. Your mental state dictates your scorecard. Take your time on the shots and don't dwell on poor shots – your mantra should be to stay clear-headed and positive.  
  
  
• Hire the right coach: If you want to graduate from being a recreational golfer to a more professional one, you need a mentor. A coach will make your performance more consistent, and you will gradually begin to see progress in your game.

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Additionally, you can get complimentary access to prominent golf courses across several cities. For more particulars on golf courses accessible at various locations, please visit