As said by American golf coach Hank Johnson, golf is not a game of knowing something – it’s a game of doing something. And in order to do something for the first time, we do like to know as much as we can before we make the first step.
Good technique, the most powerful asset in this sport, is not something that anyone is born with, but some essentials can be learned even before grabbing the club for the first time.
No matter which professional trainer and facility you decide to choose, there are key principles that are characteristic for all occasions.
Square One of the First Golf Lesson
For the instructor-student connection to flourish, it is imperative to lay a strong foundation in the first class. It is typical for a golf coach to ask questions about your background and future goals as a golfer.
Setting objectives with the aid of a coach is one of the many services offered. Your golf instructor may recognize potential in you that you were previously unaware of.
Beginning golfers are taught that their swing is an athletic action similar to other sports they have played in the past, and this emphasis is reinforced throughout their first few sessions.
New golfers, in particular, should focus on improving their long game. This allows them to advance the ball on the golf course when they arrive. First-timers will learn the principles and important actions that make up a successful golf swing – the setup, backswing, and finish.
Getting Ready
Preparing ahead of time for your first golf lesson can guarantee that you get the most out of it. There is much more to think about aside from the clubs and balls (which you will actually find at the course!). In order to prepare well, we’ve created a list of things not to forget about!
- Get in touch with your trainer. Even though you’ve already appointed your session, check your email for any updates. In case you have any questions regarding the details of your first training, make sure to reach out and clear any possible misunderstandings.
- Specify your meeting place and be on time. These two are very important – where and when. Some coaches decide to meet up at a golf store, a teaching facility, at the turf, or some other part of the golf facility.
- Be on time. In case this is your first visit, it’s better to come 15 minutes earlier, so you get a chance to get to know the environment. Also, you may not be able to train with your professional if you are late because their schedule is not solely dependent on you.
- See into the dress code. Depending on the facility, some styles of clothing may or may not be permitted (athleisure, length of bottoms, jeans, sweatpants, tank tops, etc.).
There is nothing wrong with wearing tennis shoes/sneakers while playing golf, as long as they have soft spikes or spikeless bottoms. If the weather is colder, wear layers that you may remove or add if you are hot or chilly.
- Wear sun protection. The dangers of sunburn, dehydration and heat exhaustion are not to be taken lightly. An SPF 15 sunscreen, sunglasses that block out both UVB and ultraviolet A, and a sun visor are all excellent ways to avoid heat-related illness injuries.
If you begin to feel weak, nauseated, dizzy, or faint, it’s time to call it a day and cool down in the shade with a bottle of water. Better safe than sorry!
- Bad weather shouldn’t stop you. Another great thing that technology brought upon us is indoor golf facilities. Not only can you play during rainy days, but you can also even train in the heart of Manhattan if you want since the NYC golf simulator exists!
This is also an amazing way to spend usually inactive winter days, and since you’re starting, trust us – you will get hooked on striking great shots.
- Stay hydrated. Always carry a handy water bottle with you. Once you start sweating and your heart rate goes up, you won’t enjoy being thirsty.
- Warm-up. Avoiding stretches can only lead to injuries. Hands, shoulders, and back should be warmed up before starting any kind of new exercise routine. Jumping jacks are a great way to raise your heart rate for a short period of time.
- Investigate the payment ways. A member charge, credit card, or cash may be accepted depending on the setup of the facility where you’re training (even if you’re a visitor). Paying attention to the procedure and permissible modes of payment is always a good idea. And being short on cash in a no-plastic-money facility is not a great experience to have.
- Questionnaires and forms. Depending on your background and interests, you may be asked to provide information about yourself. What kind of golf experience you have, as well as your goals for the future, any physical injuries or limitations you may have, your profession (ergonomics for posture), your eyewear, and other activities may come into question.
Following Up
Once your first lesson is done, the first thing that comes into mind is – what’s next?
For each individual golfer, it’s all about what they care about most. Many of the things professional trainers do are aimed at helping individuals solve specific problems and get people out of their own comfort zone.
Your instructor will rely on you to provide accurate and comprehensive comments. It’s important for them to monitor your progress and see if any modifications are necessary as you move along with your treatment plan. Be prepared to tell your instructor the truth. That’s the only way you’ll be able to get the outcomes you both want.
When should you come back again, you may ask? Depending on your expectations, of course, but not longer than a month. You will progressively get better over time, and that will keep your enthusiasm alive.
Conclusion
Your teacher will undoubtedly inquire about your game’s objectives. This person wants to know how committed you are to improving the issues that have been pointed out as needing change. An excellent improvement plan is only useful if you are willing and able to devote the necessary time and effort to practicing and training.
Again, it’s all about the individual golfer and what they value most in their sport. The vast majority of the work that coaches undertake is to assist people in solving a specific problem and remove themselves from their own path.
Now get those shoes shiny, put a smile (and SPF!) on your face, and start swinging!
Author bio
Travis Dillard is a business consultant and an organizational psychologist based in Arlington, Texas. Passionate about marketing, social networks, and business in general. In his spare time, he writes a lot about new business strategies and digital marketing for Life & Style Hub.