Free Golf Instruction Book
An introduction to the game of golf for beginners

The ABC's of Golf
by PGA Professional, Mark Blakemore

Introduction
Part A - All About How to Get Started in Golf
Part B - Basic Fundamentals and Concepts in Golf Swing Technique
Part C - Common Golf Words and Phrases - Glossary
Conclusion

Part A - All About How to Get Started in Golf

What Should I Do?

Step 1   Get some info

Reading this book is a good first step. You're doing great. Now you need some actual exposure, too.

Step 2   Test the waters

Start your golf learning experience by using a practice facility (driving range, putting green, short game area, etc.). That way, even if you feel like you have no idea what you're doing, or if your behavior is completely inappropriate, at least it's only practice, right? Most golf courses have some kind of practice facility, and some practice facilities are stand-alone (separate from golf courses). Check your phone book or local sporting goods store to find one near you.

You don't need any equipment or special clothing, nor do you need a group of people to get started. Every golf course or practice facility I've seen in my life has some kind of clubs you can borrow (or rent very cheaply) to give it a try. Also, it's totally fine to go to the course or driving range by yourself. People do it all the time. If you're wondering what to wear just make sure it's comfortable, loose enough to move freely and generally appropriate for public places. Most golf facilities frown on tank tops, cut-offs, etc. and many courses require collared shirts and if you're wearing shorts that they be a certain length. Use your judgement and see what other people have on. Sneakers or athletic shoes are best for footwear, but certainly make sure your shoes are flat, comfortable and not slippery -- heeled shoes (any height), sandals or leather-soled dress shoes are not good.

If you are very conservative by nature you could simply go to observe the first time you go to the golf course, but that is a bit extreme. You might as well get your feet wet immediately, no? Plus, when you see the ball flying through the air you will probably not be able to resist the temptation to give it a try.

Golf is a game that is steeped in tradition, civilized behavior and courtesy (snobbery?). Therefore, what you do and don't do when you participate in the game of golf is somewhat important. Golf etiquette is as important as skill to many people who play the game. Learning the nuances and subtleties of appropriate behavior may take years, but if you start with these simple guidelines you'll be fine:

• Learn from the behavior of more experienced players.
• Be gentle with your sounds and movements (or totally silent and motionless) when anyone is preparing to make a stroke within earshot on the golf course.
• Be aware of your position relative to other people and be unobtrusive, e.g., don't stand too close to somebody making a stroke, or in a distracting position (like behind them), don't swing near or toward anybody, etc.)
• Be respectful of the course/property. Golf courses are expensive to maintain and the condition of the course is important for maximum enjoyment of the game (i.e., the smoothness of the putting greens, bunkers and fairways). Repair all damage you cause to the course to the best of your ability (e.g., replace divots, repair ball marks, rake bunkers, etc.).