Intro
Golf can feel like a complicated world of clubs, courses, and rules, but with a little guidance, it’s a lot easier to start than you might think.
As someone who remembers those early days of puzzling over club types and figuring out how to swing without whiffing entirely, I can assure you that getting into golf is well worth the journey.
This guide is designed for absolute beginners who want to start playing golf but aren’t sure where to begin.
We’ll break down the essentials: the gear you need (and don’t need), some basic skills to practice, and tips on where to get comfortable with the game.
With the right approach, you’ll be ready to hit the course with confidence and, who knows, maybe even hit a few good shots along the way.
Essential Gear for Beginners: What You Need to Get Started
One of the first questions in learning how to get into golf is, “What do I actually need?”
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the equipment options, from high-end drivers to specialty putters, but beginners can start simple.
1. Basic Set of Clubs
As a beginner, you don’t need a full set of 14 clubs right off the bat.
Look for a beginner set that includes a driver, a few irons, a wedge, and a putter.
I started my journey with a set of Stix golf clubs.
These are good entry level clubs that can get you through the first few years of your golfing journey.
Many sporting goods stores, as well as popular online retailers, offer beginner kits with these essentials.
Opting for an affordable starter set will help you get comfortable without a hefty investment.
According to Golf Digest, many beginners find that beginner sets with lightweight graphite shafts and forgiving club heads make it easier to learn.
2. Golf Balls for Practice
When you’re just figuring out how to get into golf, buying high-end golf balls isn’t necessary.
Look for balls that are marketed as “practice” or “distance” balls, which tend to be more affordable and durable.
These are great for range practice, where you’ll likely go through a fair number as you work on your swing.
Brands like Top Flite and Callaway offer solid options at reasonable prices for newcomers.
3. Comfortable Golf Shoes
While some courses allow sneakers, a good pair of golf shoes can make a noticeable difference, especially if you’re playing on wet grass or uneven terrain.
Beginner-friendly options from brands like Adidas and FootJoy provide stability without breaking the bank.
Plus, golf shoes are often designed to provide extra grip, which can help build confidence in your stance and swing.
4. Extras: Gloves, Tees, and a Bag
A glove is often overlooked, but it’s an inexpensive item that can make a big difference in your grip and comfort.
Check out my review for my favorite golf gloves HERE!
Tees are typically cheap, so grab a pack with a mix of lengths to find what works for you.
Finally, a basic golf bag—preferably a lightweight one with a stand—will make it easier to carry your gear if you’re at a course that requires walking between holes.
Where to Buy
Many retailers cater to beginners who want to get into golf.
Stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods and online sites like Amazon carry entry-level sets, and there are even secondhand options through sites like eBay or GlobalGolf.com.
As you progress, you can upgrade individual clubs based on your preferences and playing style.
Basic Skills to Practice When You’re Learning How to Get Into Golf
Once you have your gear, the next step is learning the basic skills that form the foundation of golf.
Even a little time spent on these core techniques will go a long way in making you feel comfortable and confident on the course.
1. Mastering Your Grip
The grip is the foundation of a good golf swing.
There are several grip styles, but beginners typically start with the “interlocking” or “overlapping” grip.
Practice holding the club with a relaxed but firm grip—one common mistake is gripping too tightly, which restricts movement.
The right grip gives you control without stiffness, and as you start, don’t be afraid to experiment a bit to find what feels most natural.
Many pros recommend practicing your grip daily, even when you’re off the course.
Check out THIS grip training aid that has helped me hone in my grip.
2. The Stance and Setup
How you position yourself before a swing can make a huge difference.
Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, bend slightly at the knees, and maintain a balanced, athletic stance.
This setup not only helps with balance but also prepares you for a smoother swing.
Your posture should feel comfortable but stable; avoid slouching or standing too upright.
Beginners often overlook this, but practicing your stance, even without hitting a ball, can make your swing more consistent over time.
3. Focus on Short Game
As any experienced player will tell you, the short game (putting, chipping, and pitching) is crucial to lowering scores and improving consistency.
Beginners are often surprised by how much of the game takes place near the green.
Try practicing your short game at a local practice area or with putting drills at home.
Using a few basic techniques, like keeping your arms steady and focusing on the follow-through, will build confidence and control as you get into golf.
4. The Swing: Start Slow
The golf swing is a complex motion, so start by working on a controlled, balanced motion rather than going for power.
For beginners, it’s tempting to try to hit the ball as hard as possible, but smooth, controlled swings will yield better results.
Use a driving range to practice hitting consistent shots at lower speeds.
If possible, consider taking a lesson with a golf pro who can guide you on form.
Even a single lesson can help you avoid common mistakes and give you a solid foundation.
Where to Practice When You’re Getting Into Golf
Knowing where to practice is a big part of learning how to get into golf.
Fortunately, there are several accessible options for beginners, from driving ranges to golf simulators.
Here are some ideal practice locations to consider:
1. Driving Ranges
Driving ranges are one of the best places to start for beginners.
They offer an environment where you can practice your full swing without the pressure of being on a course.
Most ranges let you purchase a bucket of balls, so you can hit shot after shot and really focus on building consistency.
Many ranges even have rental clubs available if you’re still experimenting with different club types.
2. Public Golf Courses and Par-3 Courses
Public golf courses are beginner-friendly and often have affordable rates, particularly if you’re playing during off-peak hours.
If you’re just starting out, consider trying a par-3 course, which is shorter and less challenging than a standard 18-hole course.
Par-3 courses help you work on approach shots and your short game without the intimidation factor of a full course.
Websites like GolfNow make it easy to find public courses in your area and even offer discounted rates for last-minute bookings.
3. Practice Greens and Short Game Areas
Improving your short game is essential, and practice greens are a great place to do it.
Many courses offer access to their practice greens for free or for a small fee.
At a practice green, you can work on putting, chipping, and bunker shots, which make up a large part of the game.
This option is especially beneficial for beginners who want to build confidence before heading onto a full course.
According to experts at Golf Monthly, devoting time to your short game can significantly improve your overall performance, even if you’re new to the sport.
4. Golf Simulators and Indoor Facilities
If you’re in an area where outdoor practice isn’t always possible, golf simulators are an excellent alternative.
Indoor facilities like Topgolf and PGA Tour Superstore locations offer simulators where you can practice full swings in a controlled environment.
These setups are especially helpful in winter or during bad weather.
Plus, simulators provide feedback on swing speed, distance, and ball trajectory, giving you valuable data to improve your game.
Some simulators even allow you to “play” real courses virtually, making it a fun, interactive way to learn.
5. Join a Beginner Clinic or Group Lesson
Many golf clubs and community centers offer beginner clinics, which are group sessions taught by a golf professional.
These clinics cover the basics, including the fundamentals of the swing, rules of golf, and etiquette.
Joining a group lesson is a great way to meet others who are also learning how to get into golf, and you’ll have the advantage of professional instruction.
Local listings, golf clubs, or websites like USGA’s “Play 9” can help you find clinics in your area.
Final Thoughts on How to Get Into Golf
Getting started with golf doesn’t have to be intimidating.
With the right gear, some focused practice, and an understanding of where to work on your skills, you’ll quickly build confidence on the course.
Remember, learning how to get into golf is a journey—take it one step at a time and enjoy the process.
Over time, you’ll see improvement, and each practice session will bring you closer to enjoying the full experience of playing this rewarding game.
Whether you’re practicing your swing at the range or fine-tuning your short game on the putting green, every effort helps you get a little closer to mastering the basics.
Now that you know how to get into golf, all that’s left is to hit the course and have fun!
