I’ve had many friends over the years say that want to start golf, and their first question is:  “How do I get started in golf?”  I’m here to help!

#1) Figure out how serious you are

Are you looking to knock the ball around a few times a year, or maybe just at the company’s annual Captain’s Choice tournament?  Or are you really going to play regularly, or semi-regularly with the intent to be a semi-decent golfer?  Are you willing to practice a little bit on the driving range, or putting green? Either way, it is fine!  I can work with that!  But, the more serious you are, the more you should invest your time and money into it.

#2) Equipment…  Clubs, Balls, Tees, and an outfit

The most expensive thing is clubs.  You can spend anywhere from $100 to $1000 on a set of irons, which include pitching wedge through 3-iron.  You can get a set of golf irons from any retailer, and it should suit you just fine for beginners.  The most important thing to consider is how the club looks/feels to you, and to make sure you get the correct shaft.  You can get graphite or steel shafts, and you can get different flexes on the shaft (senior, regular, stiff, x-stiff).  Most beginners would most likely use regular flex shafts.

Once you have the set of irons, you’re going to need a driver, at least one fairway wood, at least one sandwedge, and a putter.  Drivers can be very expensive, so just get a driver you are willing to afford.  Sandwedges are anywhere from $25 to $120.  Get a wedge that suits your eye.  Putters are personal.  Get one that looks good, and that works for you.  Even if it’s from the barrell in the pro shop that costs $3.  I bought my putter 12 years ago for $20.  I still use it to this day.  At most big retailers, you can get a set of irons, woods, and a putter all boxed into one.  Those can work for beginners, and it’ll give you a chance to see if you really are serious about golf.

Balls and tees are the next things you need.  Tees are dirt cheap (and you can even just collect them on the driving range if you don’t want to pay for them).  Balls can be anywhere from $10 to $45 dollars per dozen.  If you are a beginner, get the cheap ones because you will lose a bunch.  Plus, I promise you won’t even know the difference between an expensive ball and a cheap one.

If you look good, you play good.  While this may not hold water all the time, it certainly something to try out.  Sport your new set of clubs with a new outfit.  Go ahead, you deserve it!

#3)  Get lessons from a professional, or someone who is a very good golfer

Don’t listen to your buddy who is wailing away next to you at the driving range telling you that if you curl your left toes up just before impact, that will help.  He probably will do you more harm than good.  If you can pick up a few tips from a good golfer, than go ahead and try it!  Just make sure you trust their advice is worthy.  Or, if you want professional help, go to your local PGA Professional and take lessons from them.  Lessons range from 1/2 hour to 1 hour, and cost from $20 to $75, depending on the professional.  But, if you’re serious about it, it’s worth it!

You can spend a lot of money up front on golf to get started, but golf is a lifelong sport.  If you invest in clubs now, you can use them for a long time!  Plus, it’s a great way to network!