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If you’ve been thinking about taking up golf, or if you’re a golfer in search of a better game,
you may have considered golf lessons. But are golf lessons really beneficial? And how do
you find a pro who will offer good advice?
There are some who swear that lessons are vital and others who say that practice is the only
thing that will improve your golf game. The truth seems to lie somewhere in the middle. But
before you drop your coach or sign up for lessons, consider what it is that you hope golf
lessons will accomplish. Outlining your goals may help you decide whether you truly need
lessons or simply more time on the course.
If you play with others who play exceptionally well, you may want to find someone to give
you some help with your game. Whether that’s a paid coach or merely a friend who plays
well is strictly a personal choice. Getting some pointers and tips may be a good way to ensure
that you don’t totally embarrass yourself in front of other players.
If you’re serious about the game, you’ve probably been involved long enough that you don’t
need advice on whether to get a coach. But if you’ve only recently discovered the joy of
golfing, you may find yourself looking for a way to improve your game. Golf lessons could
very well be the answer.
Some people say that lessons give them a set time to practice and an opportunity to
completely focus on the game. You’ll typically be less interrupted than if you were playing
on your own, stopping to chat with friends along the way. But others say the simple fact of
having someone scrutinizing every move and offering constant advice is more distracting
than helpful. Decide whether you’re one of those who accept direction and works well in that
situation. That’s a major clue as to whether golf lessons are a good idea.
Remember that a golf coach’s job is to teach you to golf correctly. That means that there are
some habits that he (or she) will be trying to ingrain and others they’ll be trying to break.
While golfing correctly is a terrific goal, many golfers have some bad habits that they tout as
benefiting their game. Changing your grip, adjusting your stance or even using different
equipment may be among the “must do” list from your coach. You may resist those changes.
You have two options. You can do your best to follow the instructions, or you can explain
that you aren’t planning to change that particular habit. If you don’t plan to change, you may
need to reexamine your decision to take lessons. Without following directions, lessons may
become a waste of time and effort on both parts, and money on yours.
Golf lessons are great for some people. It’s a personal decision whether you are one of those
who will benefit from a coach – formal or informal. But remember that the most important
thing you can do to improve your golf game is practice (correctly!!).
