Get off to a good start in golf by starting on the first tee! What I mean is, start in the right place when you want to learn golf and find a PGA Instructor to begin your golf education. Choosing your first instructor and making sure you learn all areas of the game so that you have a solid foundation in the game will help you become a lifelong golfer.
The first place to start is to contact the local golf courses in your area and inquire about the instruction staff, asking about PGA or LPGA certification and instruction experience. Also ask about instruction technique and style such as use of video and training aids, appointment availability, costs and lesson packages. You may want to start out with a clinic group or if you prefer a more private situation with one on one instruction. Usually, your golf professional will offer discounts on series of lessons and as it is important that you receive instruction on all areas of the game, these lessons should include instruction on full swing – from short irons to woods, pitching, chipping, bunker shots, putting, and, when ready, some on course guidance including learning some rules, etiquette and gaining some experience playing with a foursome and learning to keep up the pace of play.
Some of the basics that an instructor will cover for full swing should include your grip, posture and alignment, and a feel for the basic back and forth of the swing motion that repeats with good timing and balance. For short game, the basics include a steady body position and a smaller pendulum swing using several clubs to create the right amount of loft and roll for the shot you need near the green. Also for putting, learning to judge distance and direction and how to “read” a green and stroke the putter for solid contact should be learned.
Learning the fundamentals of golf from the start makes a lifelong difference for your game. Starting with all of these basics allows the golfer to develop a comfortable swing that is also technically correct, and will get you out on the course enjoying your game as soon as possible!