What to Do Before and During Your First Golf Lesson

The first golf lesson can be an exciting and daunting experience for many first-time golfers. You’re about to learn a whole new way of moving and strategizing that you might not be used to! However, with proper preparation, this first lesson can make a huge difference in finding your passion for the game. Read our guide below on what to do before and during your first golf lesson.

Prepare Your Equipment

Golf is a game you can play with different equipment brands, but for your first lesson, it’s recommended to get the best equipment you can get. Investing in high-quality equipment that will last for years will save you a great deal of money in the long run.

Confirm all your requirements with your instructors before your first lesson. Your instructor will be able to recommend the best equipment for you.

Where and When

Before the lesson begins, make sure everything is ready to go; this includes your transportation, having all the necessary equipment, and knowing where you’re going for your first golf lesson. Ensure that you arrive at your class on time and that you’re dressed appropriately. Don’t be late.

Make sure to read and follow all instructions and class details handed out in advance. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your instructors for any questions beforehand.

Pack the Essentials

Because you’ll be spending the majority of the lesson out on the golf course, it is recommended that you apply an adequate amount of sunscreen beforehand to protect your skin. Also, don’t forget to bring any additional sun protection that you may need, such as a hat and sunglasses. Be sure to pack a bottle or jug of water to keep yourself hydrated.

Prepare Your Mind

The best way to prepare for your first golf lesson is to get into a positive and creative mindset. Think about how you approach everything new. You go into it with a sense of wonder and excitement, not fear or reservation. This is no different. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an accomplished golfer who wants to improve some elements of his game, remember that there are always ways to improve your golf game. The important thing is to be as open and coachable as possible. 

Prepare Your Body

Make sure you’ve warmed up adequately. Stretch for 10 minutes before playing golf to warm up muscles and joints because cold muscles lead to injuries when stretched too quickly during activity. Once you’ve done your warm-up stretches and you feel good physically, it will also help keep your mind clear for learning. 

Think About Your Goals

Envisioning the goals you want to accomplish will help increase your chances of success on the course. Visualization is about using mental imagery to create positive experiences that support your cognitive development, self-talk, and behavior to perform at a higher level. Visualization does not only apply to your general goals, but it is also a great technique to use on the course. All the best golfers use visualization techniques and body coordination to get the ball to go exactly where they want it to go.

Bring a Notepad

People often forget the importance of note-taking when learning something new. Golf is no exception, and bringing a notepad with you to the range or golf course will allow you to record your thoughts and feelings while practicing new skills.

Note-taking is also an excellent way to get in some self-reflection regarding what you were working on and how you felt about it. This information will be helpful when trying to remember all of the exercises during your lessons.

Many players experience trouble in learning how to read greens. Having a notepad ready to write down key points can help you remember information that may otherwise go astray.

Bring A Camera

Seeing your swing from another perspective is often enlightening for many beginner golfers. If you have access to a video camera or phone, bring it along and record some swings and putts, provided that your instructor allows it and it does not disrupt the class. Having some videos of your progress journey will help motivate you by giving you something to look back on to remember how far you’ve come.

Have Fun

The most important thing to do during your first golf lesson is to have fun. It’s a game, after all, so there’s no need to take it too somberly. Your instructor should help you enjoy the sport while you gain valuable skills. Some instructors will offer various types of instruction depending on what aspect of the game you want to improve upon or develop for the long-term based on your natural tendencies. The critical thing to remember here is that you are experiencing something new and exciting while understanding how to be great at it.

Golf Lessons for First-Timers

The Indian River Golf Foundation offers a variety of after school golf programs for interested youth of all skill levels. The purpose is to engage as many youths in the game and cultivate a love for the game that can last a lifetime. We also offer training In traditional golf during the school year, and can provide equipment if needed. 

Play With Us!

For more information, call us at (772)713-9593 or email us at rogervandykeirgf@gmail.com

The mission of the Indian River Golf Foundation (IRGF) is to promote interest and awareness of local golfing opportunities and to encourage participation in programs that will lead to high levels of knowledge, player development and service in the game of golf.