Travel and Leisure

Every player begins each hole by placing their ball on the tee box and hitting it with a club. The player is allowed to place the ball on a tee for the first shot of each hole. After the initial shot, the player continues to hit the ball until it lands in the hole. The objective is to get the ball into the hole in the least amount of strokes.

1. Before you even step onto a course, consider taking golf lessons. Taking a lesson with a certified professional will provide you with an understanding of the basic mechanics of the swing. Most courses have lessons available to the public throughout the season.

2. Depending on your skill level and budget, buy a used or new set of clubs. Each player can carry a maximum of 14 clubs including a putter. The first shot from the tee box is called a 'drive' and is usually performed with a driver. This is a long-shafted club with a low degree of loft, which causes the ball to travel a longer distance. Additional shots are then performed using higher degree woods or irons.

3. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the rules of the game. Golf has been known as a gentleman's game since its beginning. The game stresses honesty, honor and respect. Golfers are expected to live up to these traits during every match. The official rules can be attained by visiting the USGA website at http://www.usga.org/.

4. Locate a golf pro in your area. This is a great way to get beneficial lessons and learn more about the game itself. Most courses have a pro on site or can refer you to one. Golf pros have a great deal of knowledge about the game and can offer valuable advice to all golfers.

5. Learn the basics of the golf swing. The swing itself may seem simple, but it encompasses many different things. These include the grip of the club, the address (or stance) over the golf ball, the actual swing, and putting. There are many things to perfect in order to hit a ball correctly. Because of this, most people turn to professionals to seek help and advice. The best thing to do in order to develop a consistent and correct swing is to practice on a usual basis.

6. Spend time at a driving range. Like I just mentioned earlier, practice is the key to developing a consistent swing. A driving range allows you to spend as much time as you need before heading out to the actual course.

7. Head out to the course. Once you have an understanding of the game and have developed a consistent swing, it's time to golf. Remember everything you have learned and put it all to use. I would recommend trying out a 9 hole course to start. They will usually be cheaper and less advanced than a full 18 hole course.