A 2023 Newbie’s Guide to Golf

In this Post:

• What do I need to know about Golf if I’m just getting started?

• What kind of equipment do I need?

• What are the different types of shots used in golf?

• What is the proper golf etiquette and behavior to follow while on the golf course?

• How can I improve my golf game?

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If you are new to the game of golf, getting started can be quite intimidating. With golf season coming in around the corner, we want 2023 to be your year to start your journey. In this guide, we break down all of the key things you need to know to get started to feel confident getting out onto the course and start swinging like the pros!

What do I need to know about Golf if I’m just getting started?

Objective of the Game:

Understand the basic rules of the game. Golf is played by hitting a small ball into a series of holes on a course using various clubs. The goal is to complete the course in the fewest number of strokes. Each hole is assigned a par, or the number of strokes an expert golfer is expected to need to complete the hole.

Common Golf Terms:

Before you go play your first round of golf, it is imperative you know and understand the following commonly used terms at the golf course.

On the Golf Course

• Tee Box: The area where tee shots are taken.

• Fairway: The area of the course that is well-manicured and extends from the tee to the green.

• Rough: The uncultivated area surrounding the fairway.

• Green: The putting surface.

• Bunker: A sand trap.

• Hazard: An area on the golf course that provides a difficult obstacle for the golfer (i.e., bunkers, rivers, lakes, etc).

• Out of Bounds (OB): Refers to areas on the golf course that are designated as outside the boundaries of the course and off limits to play.

Scoring

• Ace:  A hole in one.

• Albatross: A score of three under par on a single hole.

• Eagle: A score of two under par on a hole.

• Birdie: A score of one under par on a hole.

• Par: The number of strokes a skilled golfer should take to complete a hole or round.

• Bogey: A score of one over par on a hole.

• Double Bogey: A score of two over par on a hole.

• Triple Bogey: A score of three over par on a hole.

For a full list of golf terms, please refer to The Eighteenth’s golf glossary here.

What kind of equipment do I need?

To play golf, you’ll need the right equipment. You'll need a set of golf clubs, a golf bag, and some additional items. If you are just starting out, consider getting the basics to minimize your costs. Instead of purchasing new clubs, which can cost upwards of $500 to $1500+, consider buying used clubs from your local golf store, Facebook Marketplace, or Kijiji for a more budget-friendly option. In the meantime, please see below for a list of equipment you’ll need:

1. Golf Bag

2. Golf Clubs

   • Driver

   • Hybrid

   • Irons (Note: If you don’t have a ful set of irons, a 5-iron, 7-iron, and 9-iron will suffice)

   • Fairway Wood (optional)

   • Sand Wedge

   • Other Wedges (i.e., pitching wedge, lob wedge, gap wedge) (optional)

   • Putter

3. Golf Balls

4. Tees

5. Towel

Once you get a good feel of the game, there will be plenty of opportunity to go purchase the newest, hottest set of clubs that your heart desires. Remember, the goal early on is to make learning your priority, not buying. However, If you plan on committing to golf in the long term, consider checking out the top golf sets for beginners to make an informed purchase.

What are the different types of shots used in golf?

In golf, the most common types of shots are:

1. Drive: The initial shot from the tee to start a hole

2. Fairway shot: A shot played from the fairway towards the green

3. Approach shot: A shot played towards the green to set up a putt

4. Chip shot: A short shot played from around the green to get the ball onto the putting surface

5. Pitch shot: A shot similar to a chip shot but played with a higher trajectory and longer distance

6. Bunker shot: A shot played from a sand bunker to get the ball out and onto the green or fairway

7. Putt: A shot played on the green to finish the hole.

Unlock your golfing potential by gaining a better understanding of the various shots used on the course. From drives to putts, explore the techniques and strategies in our in-depth article for the full list of shots.

What is the proper golf etiquette and behavior to follow while on the golf course?

1. Golf is a sport of respect. Do not talk during someone’s downswing.

2. When on the green, do not walk through someone else’s line.

3. If there is a group in front of you, do not hit the ball if they are within your shooting distance. Wait until they have completed their hole.

4. If the group behind you is playing at a faster pace than you, consider letting them play through you.

5. Be courteous, friendly, and respectful.

How can I improve my golf game?

There are many ways to improve your game when you are just starting out. Golf is not a sport that you master overnight and requires a commitment towards improvement through practice and training. If you are just starting out, we recommend taking the following steps to help you improve:

1. Learn from a professional instructor.

   Depending on your budget, you may or may not want to get a professional instructor for lessons. We recommend watching golf tutorials and instructional videos online or reading instruction books and articles.

2. Focus on the fundamentals.

   Having a good grip, consistent pre-shot routine to set up your stance, and a smooth swing are all essential elements to hitting the ball well.

3. Develop a routine and targeted plan.

   By developing a routine, you will ensure that all time spent is used effectively to focus on a particular aspect of your golf game.

4. Consistency is key.

   Golf is a practice game. Consistent practice is crucial because it helps develop and refine your form and technique, which will translate to improved performance and consistency on the course.

5. Be patient.

Go to your local driving range or par-3 course to practice your swing and get a feel for the game. As you become more confident, try playing a full round at a local course to see how you do.

Golf can be a challenging and rewarding game, but the most important thing is to have fun. Don't get too caught up in your score and try to relax and have a good time!