Complete beginner's guide to playing golf with professional instruction covering basics, rules, equipment, and fundamental techniques
📍 Learn Golf in Omaha, Council Bluffs & Surrounding Areas
Start Learning Golf Call (402) XXX-XXXXThe goal of golf is simple: get your ball from the tee (starting point) into the hole in as few strokes as possible. Each golf course has 18 holes, and you count every swing you make.
Your golf swing is the most important skill. It combines proper grip, stance, backswing, downswing, and follow-through to strike the ball consistently and accurately.
Par is the target number of strokes for each hole. Score under par (birdie, eagle) and you're doing great! Most beginners aim to break 100 for 18 holes initially.
You can carry up to 14 clubs: drivers for distance, irons for accuracy and distance control, wedges for short shots, and putters for rolling the ball on the green.
Golf courses feature tee boxes, fairways, roughs, bunkers, water hazards, and greens. Understanding course layout helps you play smarter, not just harder.
Respect other players, maintain pace of play, repair divots and ball marks, and stay quiet during others' shots. Good etiquette makes golf enjoyable for everyone.
Start with a basic set: driver, 3-wood, 5-7-9 irons, pitching wedge, sand wedge, and putter. You don't need expensive clubs to begin - rental or budget sets work great for learning!
As a beginner, use inexpensive practice balls. You'll likely lose a few while learning! Save premium balls for when your game improves.
A simple carry bag or cart bag to hold your clubs, balls, tees, and accessories. Choose one comfortable for your playing style (walking or riding).
Golf shoes with spikes or spikeless soles provide stability during your swing. Athletic shoes work initially, but golf shoes improve your game.
Worn on your lead hand (left for right-handed players), a glove improves grip and prevents blisters. Most golfers consider this essential.
Tees (wooden or plastic), ball markers, divot repair tool, towel, and extra balls. These small items enhance your golf experience.
Generally, you must play the ball from where it comes to rest. Don't move, bend, or break anything to improve your shot (unless allowed by specific rules).
Your ball must be teed between the tee markers, and you can tee it up to two club-lengths behind them. If you whiff (miss completely), it counts as a stroke!
If your ball goes out of bounds or is lost, add one penalty stroke and replay from the original spot. White stakes mark out of bounds areas.
If your ball lands in water (yellow or red stakes), take a one-stroke penalty and drop according to the hazard type. Most beginners use the drop zone if available.
Mark your ball before lifting it to clean. Don't walk on another player's putting line. The flagstick can stay in or be removed - your choice.
If your ball is unplayable, you have options: stroke and distance, drop within two club-lengths (with penalty), or drop behind the ball keeping the spot between you and the hole.
Start with professional instruction to learn proper fundamentals. Bad habits formed early are hard to break. Quality instruction accelerates your learning curve dramatically.
Visit a golf shop for basic club fitting. Even budget clubs should match your height and swing. Properly fitted clubs make learning significantly easier.
Spend time at the driving range before playing on course. Focus on consistent contact rather than distance. Quality practice builds muscle memory and confidence.
Master putting and chipping before worrying about driving distance. The short game (within 100 yards) accounts for 60% of your score improvement potential.
Start with executive courses or par-3 courses. These shorter courses help you learn without the pressure and time commitment of full 18-hole rounds.
Golf with patient, experienced players who can teach you course management and etiquette. You'll learn faster watching good golfers play.
Golf is challenging - expect bad shots! Focus on gradual improvement and enjoying the outdoors. The best golfers maintain positive attitudes despite setbacks.
Most beginners can play a basic round after 5-10 lessons and some practice. However, golf is a lifetime sport - even pros continue learning! Expect 3-6 months of regular practice to feel comfortable on the course.
Golf has a learning curve, but it's accessible to all ages and fitness levels. The swing mechanics are complex, which is why professional instruction helps tremendously. With proper teaching and practice, anyone can learn to play enjoyable golf.
You can start with $200-300 for basic used clubs, balls, and accessories. Add lessons ($50-100 each) and range time. Public courses offer affordable green fees. Golf can fit most budgets if you start smartly.
No! Golf accommodates all fitness levels. While flexibility and strength help, proper technique matters more than athleticism. Golfers from ages 5 to 95 enjoy the game successfully.
Most beginners shoot 100-120 for 18 holes. Breaking 100 is a common first goal. Don't worry about score initially - focus on learning proper fundamentals and enjoying the game.
Professional lessons are highly recommended! Learning proper fundamentals from the start prevents bad habits. Self-teaching through videos often leads to ingrained mistakes that hurt your progress long-term.
Learn how to play golf the right way with professional instruction, TrackMan technology, and expert guidance at Chronicle Golf in Omaha, Nebraska.
Book Your First Lesson(402) XXX-XXXX
casey@netpar.golf
Omaha, Nebraska
Mon-Sun: 8AM-8PM