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The Joys of Golfing
Golfing is a popular sport that can be great fun and an enjoyable way to spend time outdoors. The phrase "lets go golfing" expresses enthusiasm and eagerness to head out to the golf course for a round of golf. But why do so many people love golfing? What makes it such an appealing activity for players of all ages and skill levels?
The Thrill of the Game
One of the main reasons golfing has such an enthusiastic following is the thrill of the game itself. Golf presents a unique mental and physical challenge as players seek to shoot the lowest score possible by accurately judging distances and making precise shots across demanding terrain. Sinking a 20-foot putt or sticking an iron shot close to the pin brings a rush of exhilaration for golfers. The feeling of pulling off a great shot is part of what makes golf so addictive.
Scenic Courses
Another big part of the appeal of golfing is simply being out on the beautifully-landscaped grounds of a golf course. Spending 4 or 5 hours outdoors surrounded by smooth greens, scenic water hazards, and manicured fairways is very enjoyable. Golf courses are designed to incorporate interesting terrain and attractive landscaping into the layouts to maximize visual appeal. For many golfers, part of the glory of golfing is taking in these aesthetically-pleasing environments.
Social Camaraderie
Golf also offers the chance for friendly social interaction and meeting new people while competing on the course. The sport lends itself well to conversation between shots, allowing for strengthening of relationships with golf partners. Many business deals have even been struck on the fairways and greens at golf courses. Golfers also enjoy swapping stories about great shots and coloring their scorecards at the 19th hole after the round. This camaraderie is part of golf's enduring social appeal.
Getting Started with Golfing
For those hearing the call to go golfing for the first time, taking up and learning the game is now easier than ever. Golf's popularity has led to many options for beginners looking access clubs, practice facilities, lessons, and tee times. Here is a look at some tips for an easy entry into the world of golfing fun.
Buy or Rent Clubs
The first step for aspiring golfers is obtaining a set of clubs. Complete golf club sets for beginners are available for under $300 at most sporting goods stores. Options also exist for renting clubs affordably at public courses. Having properly-fitted clubs makes learning course management and swing fundamentals much easier. Don't try golfing for the first time by borrowing a random assortment of old clubs. Getting clubs designed for new golfers builds confidence.
Take Advantage of Discounted Lessons
Next, introductory lessons should be a priority. Golf pros at public courses usually offer discounted lesson packages for new players that cover grip, stance, posture, chipping, pitching, putting, rules, and etiquette advice. This formal instruction gives beginners the base of knowledge to build golf skills. Trying to learn golf solely through trial-and-error generally proves frustrating. Taking some lessons accelerates competency.
Book Late Afternoon Tee Times
Once the basics are covered through investing in lessons and equipment, it will be time to get out on the actual golf course. For first-timers, booking tee times in the late afternoon is recommended. Mornings on weekends are when heavier play and faster pace of play occur. Afternoons see fewer golfers on the course allowing beginners to take things slowly as they gain comfort. Play then speeds up once familiarity increases. Starting slow makes golfing more enjoyable.
Golfing Attire and Gear
Having the proper attire and equipment for hitting the links improves comfort, performance, and course etiquette. Making smart choices on golf apparel and accessories shows regard for traditions. Here are some golf fashion and gear tips for looking sharp and playing better when going golfing:
Dress Code Basics
Though golf fashion trends have relaxed, most courses still expect collared shirts and forbid jeans for appropriate attire. Golf shirts or polos made from performance moisture-wicking polyester blends allow freedom of movement while keeping golfers cool under the sun. Hats or visors also aid sun protection and vision on the course. Spikeless golf shoes provide necessary traction in grass and sand without damaging greens. Dressing the part elevates enjoyment.
Carry or Push
Golfers have two options for transporting clubs around the course: carry bags with dual straps or lightweight push/pull carts. Carry bags provide maximum exercise benefit while push carts simplify lugging clubs across miles of up-and-down terrain. Personal conditioning and desired convenience dictate the better choice here when golfing. Hybrid carry-cart combos are also available when needed.
Stock the Golf Bag
Having the right gear correctly packed in the golf bag saves headaches. Starting with plenty of quality golf balls and tees suited to swing speed lessens lost ball frustrations. Next, carrying extra gloves aids grip consistency - change out old gloves every 7-10 rounds. Packing rain equipment, towels, ball markers, divot repair tools, umbrellas and sunscreen prepares for changing conditions. Lastly, some healthy snacks fuel energy to finish strong on the back 9 holes!
Golfing Etiquette
Understanding standard golf etiquette principles helps keep pace of play moving and maintains course care when getting into golfing. Having sound etiquette also provides respect to fellow players. Here is a golfing etiquette overview for new players before yelling "fore!"
Take No Mulligans
Mulligans are second chances on poor shots that casual golfers sometimes invoke. But strict golf etiquette says no free replays - take penalties, escape trouble, and finish out every hole. Learning to scramble out of problems builds skills and integrity even if it hurts your final score. Take no mullies!
Rake the Bunkers
Another cardinal sin lies in neglecting to rake bunkers after shots escaping traps. Failing to smooth sand interferes with playability for the next golfer. Standard procedure says entering a bunker dictates properly raking it before leaving. Take a little extra time to care for the course through conscientious raking!
Repair All Divots
Likewise, fixing divots left behind wayward shots demonstrates golf etiquette. Filling in divots replaces chunks of grass displaced by fat or thin strikes. Having a divot repair tool makes restoring turf easier. Beyond divot repair, also carefully tread putting surfaces to prevent spike marks. Undoing damage brings better karma!
The call encouraging friends to join you with an enthusiastic "lets go golfing!" represents an open invitation into endless good times. Embracing golf's pleasurable opportunities simply requires proper prep work and maintaining sound etiquette. With the right golf gear, attire and etiquette, wonderful golfing experiences await! Let the fun begin by yelling "fore" from the first tee box soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic rules of golf I should know as a beginner?
The main rules to know first are to: play the ball from where it lies, count every stroke, avoid improving your lie, hole out on every hole, maximize pace of play, rake bunkers, and repair divots or ball marks on greens.
What golf attire is appropriate for the course?
Most courses require a collared shirt or polo, golf slacks or shorts, and golf shoes with soft spikes or spikeless soles. Denim and gym shorts are often prohibited. Hats and moisture wicking fabrics can aid comfort.
What items should I carry in my golf bag?
Start with plenty of balls and tees, gloves, ball markers, a divot repair tool, towels, umbrella, sunscreen, snacks, a scorecard, pencil, and perhaps rule book. Rain gear or extra layers help with changing weather.
What is an appropriate tip for my caddie?
Figure 10-20% of the caddie fee as a tip if the caddie provided good advice on clubs, yardages, reads, and course strategy. $20-50+ per round is standard based on level of service and difficulty.
