What I've learned so far

The golf swing is such an interesting and strange body motion. I remember the first time I tried it. "What the heck. This feels weird." Everything felt weird... the grip, keeping my left arm straight (my boobs are going to get in the way... they aren't big but they're still in the way!), being told to move closer to the ball.. I knew it was going to take some time to get used to the motions.

I have always been athletic. I played volleyball, was a cheerleader, and danced all of my life...so I would categorize myself as being athletic. After somewhat getting over my fear of the golf course, I became more observant. Most of the men out there playing are far from being "in shape". Most of them appear to be of retirement age and go out just to have fun. So if you think you can't do it just because you weren't good at sports, think again. Take a good look when you go out to the driving range or the golf course. You'll soon realize that you really can learn how to play. 

Another positive to learning the game of golf is that it's something I can still do later on in life - God willing I live that long. The older men are the best to watch out on the course. This one old man cursed every time he hit ball and then later on he would just laugh and have a good ole time. It didn't matter that he didn't play well. You could tell he enjoyed being out on the course with his friends.

I do believe my history of being athletic helped me to learn more on my own, but next week I plan on taking lessons from a local PGA pro. The golf course I recently discovered is very laid back and the prices are the most reasonable around my area. They have group clinics for women on Thursday nights every week. I'll let you know how it goes! It'll give me a chance to meet the course pro teacher to see if I want to take private lessons. The group clinics are $10 per event. Private lessons are $50 per hour. Not too bad. Right now I'm completely capable of making it through a round of 18 holes, but my goals are higher than capable. My competitive nature has me wanting to get to the tournament level. So there's my goal. 

For the basic golf swing, it's imporatant to break down the mechanics of each motion. A coworker of mine, who plays in tournaments throughout the country, mentioned the following book as being an excellent source of reference.

Supposedly it is "The Golfing Bible". He said it's really all you need to achieve a proper golf swing. It is written by the famous professional golfer Ben Hogan. This book was originally written as a series of magazine articles for Sports Illustrated back in the day - published in 1957. It has really helped me to understand the swing breakdown and why each part of the swing is critical to create a straight shot. It wasn't until I read this book that my swing greatly improved. It's also great if you can't afford professional lessons. YouTube and the Golf Channel Website are great resources to find instructional videos, as well. There are so many resources nowadays that anyone with Internet and money to buy a used set of clubs can learn to play.  

If you're just starting out, look for a golf course that's laid back, has reasonable prices, and a friendly staff. You'll have lower green fees, cart fees, and costs for practice at the range. A bucket of range balls is about $5-$10 per bucket.

Tips when you're just starting out:
1. If you don't feel comfortable learning on your own, take a lesson or become friends with someone who is willing show you some basics.
2. Even if you feel uncomfortable - do it anyway! Go to the driving range and practice. Some courses have clubs that you can rent, if you're not ready to buy.
3. Always pay attention to signs on the course and around the clubhouse - it's important to conduct yourself in a way that is proper to the golf course rules.
4. Always call ahead to discuss any dress codes for women - for example: some of the nicer courses do not allow women to wear shorts. Generally, women should wear pants, skorts(not too short), capris, and shorts(not too short and if allowed). NO DENIM. For tops - if it has a collar then it's acceptable. A fashion article to come later.
5. Meet guys that play golf - when you hear them talking about golf, express your interest. Getting invited to go out on the course is a great start to learning general rules. You can observe and learn course etiquette, as well. 

6. Buy the above book. It really is an excellent source to understanding the golf swing. I used the book in combination with watching YouTube videos to clarify anything the book could not show visually.

7. Watch the tournaments on TV - you can learn a lot  just by watching the pros.

Suggestions for Free Online teachers

Go to You Tube and search the following two names in quotations below:

1. "The Lady Golf Teacher" - She provides some simple lessons on a variety of topics. explains in a simple way. If she has an Australian accent, you're in the right place. 

2. "Mark Crossfield" -  He is more technical(which I like because I'm an Engineer) and discusses a wider variety of topics. He also provides some reviews on equipment, which is helpful if any of you decide to purchase a set of fitted clubs. 

Either teacher mentioned above seem eager to help and are open to providing guidance upon request. Visit their YouTube channels for some free lessons.