When starting golf where do you think a beginner should start?

Where makes sense to you?

Is the golf course really the best place to learn golf?

Well in my honest opinion, the golf course is often the perfect place to get started

Why is that?! I hear you shout

Number 1.  I have taught juniors for a long time, I am ashamed to say I used to think the range is the best place to begin.  I mistakenly thought that if I get their technique just right when they do hit the course, they will be brilliant.

Without a ‘Why?’ It’s very hard to motivate juniors or adult players to really understand the importance of learning putting for example.  This often changes when they get on the golf course, hit the green in 2 shots and then 8 putt.  After this you do not have to sell putting practice.

Number 2.  Practicing in a range is not as fun for most than playing golf on the course.  Beginners are often very susceptible to drop out, both adults and juniors.  For this reason alone, would you prefer to get straight into the hard stuff when learning something new or would you rather have a go at the game first and then maybe learn how to do it a little better.

Enjoyment is Key, there aren’t many people who enjoy being told what to do.  Remember this when you take a beginner to start golf

Number 3.  The golf course is too big and scary for beginners.  Yes I agree. Which is why we make appropriate length golf courses for beginners, often starting close the green.  Like Tiger Woods learnt the game, he learnt from the green back.  This has a number of benefits, for beginners there isn’t too much walking.  You get to play more golf.  Choose quiet times of the day and be prepared to let players through.  Experience can be gained quickly, such as slopes, types of grass, up and downhill as well as the wind and conditions of the course.

Much of the rich experiences of the golf course can be lost by neglecting on course practice

So there you go, if you want my advice with beginners or juniors, get out on the course as soon as possible.  Choose appropriate length courses, keep it fun and let the love for the game grow before we start the often tedious aspect of technical work.

Keep on golfing