Golf Lesson, Golf Education, Luxury Equipments, Tournaments.

Backswing

2010-09-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Golf Swing "The Backswing"

Before we start the back swing a few reminders or tips:
1. When you tee the golf ball, especially for use with the driver be sure to set it at the proper height. Note: The rule of thumb is the ball should sit approximately 1/2 of the diameter of the golf ball above the club head when the club is set on the ground.
2. Stay "Relaxed" during all phases of your swing - Note: If you've chosen to incorporate The Waggle into your swing routine then utilize it to its fullest advantage and make it not only your swing trigger but your reminder to "Relax" as well.
3. Make sure your head is upright so as not to impede the shoulder turn on the back swing.
4. Keep your left arm as straight as possible Note: Keeping the left arm straight may feel uncomfortable at first but it is critical to promoting consistent ball striking, accuracy and distance.

When you reach the top of the back swing in practice make sure the club is pointing back toward the target line, which will happen automatically if your wrists are set properly. This will allow the club to stay on line to prepare for The Downswing.

Power Walking

2010-08-10T18:24:00.000-07:00

Power Walking

How To Improve Your Golf Game With One Simple Exercise

Do you have a spring in your step while playing a round of golf or do you feel completely exhausted by the 15th hole? Sometimes you may feel out of breath just walking to your next shot.

Hours of sitting at computers, driving to work and then watching TV at home, all lead to being less physically fit, posture-related aches and pains and a general feeling of sluggishness. Then you get to the golf course and wonder why you simply just don't have the energy to complete a nice round of golf.

Golf is no different than any other sport. You need to be physcially fit to perform at your best. This is even more important if your a recreational golfer since you really don't have time to practice.

One of the most natural forms of exercise is walking. Walking is an aerobic exercise that will not only increase your cardiovascular strength, but is good for the bones and improves your posture as well. I would like to introduce you to power walking and list some of the benefits it has on your golf game.

Power Walking
This is a form of aerobic exercise consisting of rapid walking accompanied by vigorous, controlled swinging of the arms. Simply put, it is an exaggerated walking style that has more health benefits than just a casual stroll.

You want to get your power walking speed up to 4.0 to 4.5 mph for optimal calorie burning. However, if you are just starting out you may want to go at a slower pace and gradually pick up the pace over a few weeks time.

Power Walking Benefits
1. Cardiovascular fitness is improved thus giving you more endurance to complete a full round of golf, not to mention reducing the risk of coronary disease and strokes.

2. Mental well-being is improved resulting in a reduction in anxiety, stress and tension allowing you to relax and focus on the golf course.

3. Muscles are toned and strengthened allowing you to better handle the physical demands of the golf swing.

4. Helps to reduce body fat and manage your body weight therefore improving your golf physic.

5. Boosts energy so you don't tire as easily going form shot to shot.

The above are just a few of the physical and mental benefits to be gained from power walking for golf. It is a low cost form of exercise. No special clothes or equipment are necessary except a good pair of walking shoes.

Though any form of walking is beneficial, power walking is extremely helpful with golf performance, both mentally and physically. So grab your walking shoes and power walk yourself to a better golf game!

As always consult your doctor before starting your power walking program.

Teaching Children to play Golf

2010-08-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

Teaching Children to play Golf

You think your little guy might be the next Tiger Woods? If you think your child has a propensity for golf, or if you have a love for the game that you want to share, how can you best teach your youngster the game? How can you tell that they are ready to learn? What age is best to start a child on learning golf if you want to develop a quality player?

Golf, a detailed and complex sport, can be tough to teach to kids. For this reason, get them started early and ensure that you build a firm foundation in their game play so that they learn to be confident in the sport and in their own abilities. This type of learned confidence can help them embrace the complexities of the game as a whole and will turn them into golfers that are ready to learn.

Once a child is walking well independently and able to hold a child-sized golf club, he or she is probably ready for the first introduction to the sport. This can happen when the child is as young as two or three years old. Preschool children will not be ready to play golf as a game, but they can be given small putters and practice swinging the club correctly.

The children at this age learn almost everything through imitation. The best way to teach them proper swinging and putting techniques is to demonstrate, and then have them imitate the motions. But use caution that you do not make this tedious for the child. These imitation sessions should be short and fun. Try having the child hit a small balloon. Not only will this be fun, but the child will also have success in hitting the balloon, which will keep the frustration at bay. To make it even more fun, try filling the balloons with water for added resistance! This is a great summer time activity for you and for your child!

Once the child has entered school and has a good handle on the swinging and putting techniques learned through observation, it is time to start teaching the game of golf. School aged children are accustomed to verbal instruction and can listen to explanations about the game better than their preschool counterparts. You need to keep in mind, however, that they are still children! They will thrive on encouragement, and all teaching sessions should be kept upbeat!

Start by taking your child to the driving range. Show your son or daughter how to hit the ball correctly, aiming for distance. The driving range is a good place to start since there is not a specific target they must reach, so the child is less likely to get frustrated. After the child demonstrates aptitude on the driving range, you can head to the course. By this point you should be able to tell whether or not your child is going to share your love for the game of golf.

The parents need to remember that no matter how hard they try, not all children have the same likes and dislikes that their parents have. If you have introduced your child to the game of golf, and he or she does not enjoy it, try not to push them. By pushing, you might find that you drive your child away from the game. All you can do is give them the experience at an early age, and they must come to a conclusion about the game on their own.

Top Golfing Islands

2010-08-10T18:18:00.000-07:00

The Top Golfing Islands In The Sun

Canary Islands golf holidays are a winter favourite
The most popular of the Canary Islands is Tenerife, with its distinctive volcanic landscape. Perfect for winter golf holidays, there are six golf courses on the island. Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, dominates the island and the black volcanic sand beaches meet warm, clear seas. The bustling resort of Playa de Las Americas, in Adeje on the south-western coast, and the coastal fishing village of Los Cristianos, are epicenters of Tenerife golfing holidays. A round of golf in the morning, a nap on the beach in the afternoon, and a visit to the trendy bars and restaurants of Los Cristianos in the evening make up a perfect holiday.

Majorca offers quality golf and a vibrant nightlife
Reasonable green fees and an improved standard of course are making this Spanish holiday island destination increasingly popular for golf holidays. Scenic walks and excellent shopping provide visitors with plenty to do besides golf. The island’s 19 golf courses offer all levels of golfing challenge in a relaxing Mediterranean setting. Expect high standard facilities and services such as changing rooms, club rental, lockers, buggies, pro shops, cafeterias and qualified PGA instructors. Two fantastic courses are part of the five-star Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, just 15 minutes from Palma International Airport.

Mauritius – golfing in a tropical paradise
This stunning Indian Ocean island, with its idyllic white sandy beaches, is a tropical paradise that offers golfers a choice of three courses. Culturally diverse, the warm and friendly people are welcoming, and the food, a blend of Indian, Creole, Chinese and European, is a highlight. Belle Mare Plage, a luxurious four-star golf resort in beautiful beach surroundings, has two championship golf courses. Set on a beach protected by an offshore coral reef, the hotel is also perfect for swimming and water sports. All the well-appointed rooms have sea views.

History, culture and golf on Cyprus
One of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, Cyprus has a stunning coastline and pine-clad mountains, along with a warm climate. Its excellent golf courses have challenging greens and fantastic views. You can also sample wines at the many vineyards, visit historic sites, and dine at excellent cafes and restaurants. Paphos Amathus Beach, just 20 minutes’ drive from Paphos airport, and the closest resort to the courses, provides luxurious accommodation. Stunning gardens surround a huge pool and the beach is out the front. The resort’s restaurants serve delicious food and a 20-minute walk to Paphos harbour will reward you with more dining options.

Corfu is home to top quality greens
Stunning beaches, diverse architecture and a busy nightlife are all part of a Corfu holiday. In Corfu Town you can wander the streets and narrow laneways on a shopping expedition, or soak in the ambience of Spianada Square from one of the many café bars. For island accommodation with a golfing association, the quiet and well-appointed, four-star Louis Grand Glyfada, just 25 minutes drive from Corfu airport. Is ideal. The hotel overlooks Glyfada beach, one of the island’s best. All-inclusive tariffs include a sumptuous buffet evening meal. Set in the Ropa Valley, the Corfu Golf Club has one of the finest layouts in Europe, with man-made hazards that test your game. The clubhouse has all facilities including a bar, lounge and restaurant and the weekly golf ticket is great value for money.

Unique Umbrella Holder Bag

2010-08-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

Unique Umbrella Holder Bag

The Unique Umbrella Holder Bag Sets Your Hands Free to Enjoy Playing Or Watching a Golf Game

As spring is upon us, golfers and golf aficionados are geared for summer full of Sun, Golf and Fun. Ubiquitous on the golf course is the huge Golf Umbrella with bright colors and promotions.

The golf is not a summer activity alone. You can find golf being played almost year around. It is not always under the bright Sun either. More often than not you will see golfers putting away in drizzle and rain.

In the Sun or in rain you see golfers and golf enthusiasts using a variety of umbrellas to protect them from Sun or the rain. You see the golf fans struggling and juggling with other bags, cameras, binoculars and the other items they carry. Golfers might use Caddies to protect them with umbrellas while carrying and jostling with other gear. If a golfer has to carry an umbrella he/she is restrained from concentrating on his/her game and practicing with his/her iron. The spectators really miss on a lot of thrill when their hands are not free to clap and cheer.

How would it be if the golfer, the caddy and the spectators wouldn't have to worry about this anymore? What if they were protected intimately by their favorite bright and shining umbrellas while being hands free? It is now with the invention of Brella Bag, which is a bag that is an umbrella holder and more. It is a patented bag designed to hold an umbrella leaving the user's hands free to carry other items or just relax them. Brella Bag is an umbrella holder that is also a bag to conveniently carry important items such as cell phone, keys, camera and wallet.

For the golfers, caddies and their fans walking with an umbrella neatly tucked in the Bag makes their brisk walks from one hole to the next all the more enjoyable with their hands free and active. For the fans no more juggling with their umbrella, camera and other valuable stuff. It is all neatly packed in the Brella Bag. Fans can finally enjoy the experience, clap and cheer their favorite golfer.

What A Great Life.

2010-08-10T18:15:00.000-07:00

What A Great Life!

You love the game of golf. The idea of spending all of your time on the greens is your idea of paradise on earth. Perhaps all of those Saturdays playing your favorite game aren't enough anymore. For people with this deep love of the game, considering a career in the golf industry may be a perfect fit. Like any other sports industry, golf jobs run the gauntlet from caddy to CEO of major companies.

Many people, such as students and retirees, have found ways to use their passion to their benefit. Some work as caddies or grounds keepers to receive paychecks and possibly the perk benefit of reduced or free golf time. These golf jobs work well for individuals who need to have flexible schedules to fit around classes, another full time job, or to leave time to enjoy retirement. Choosing to work at the local golf course or driving range is an excellent way to combine a favorite hobby with a paycheck.

Sporting goods stores are another great place to combine the love of money with the love of golf. Especially during the holidays and peak golf times, these stores are more than happy to have knowledgeable people ready to assist their golf challenged clients. Besides the paycheck, another benefit could be employee discounts of merchandise that would otherwise be difficult or even impossible to afford. Of course on the other hand, an awesome golf job would be to own your own golf store. However, the area you live in must be suitable for a profitable establishment if you choose to own your own store. Some of the fringe benefits of this golf job are having the opportunity to choose specific products and meet a lot of other people who live, breathe, eat, and sleep golf too.

For the outgoing type of golf lover a career in sales may be the way to go. Whether you decide to go to work for your local golfing store selling directly to the public or apply with one of the larger manufacturers and distributors of golfing equipment and sell to stores, this golf job would offer the same benefits as sales positions in other industries. Competitive wages, health benefits, 401K, you know, all of that important stuff. Who knows where networking within the job may lead? Perk benefits like free golf time, free or discounted golf equipment, and possibly meeting some pros of the game are all possible. Merging your knowledge of golf with a golf job is a great method for thriving in your job and making ends meet at the same time.

Other often overlooked golf job that may be suitable, especially for the literary gifted, would be a sports writer. There are a huge number of websites geared toward sports and specifically golf on the Internet. Those great articles come from writers. If you think you have the right stuff for golf writing, contact the editor or webmaster and pitch your ideas. You never know how things like that will turn out and you may end up with a unique, golf job that fits perfectly within your schedule. While the Internet is probably the fastest means to a golf writing job, don't forget about the more traditional magazine publications. You will just need to check out their submission guidelines in the magazine itself, on their website, or by letter to find out the editor's name and submission preferences. Writing about your favorite sport would help keep you current on all of the latest golfing news and be a fun golf job.

The golf jobs are out there if you keep your eyes and imagination open. Whether you choose to work on the course itself or from the comfort of your home writing great golf content, it is possible to use your passion as a means of income.

Golf GPS Speed Up Golf?

2010-08-10T18:11:00.000-07:00

The Golf GPS Speed Up Golf?

The popularity of golf has grown exponentially over the past quarter century. People love the challenge, the lush outdoor experience and the company of congenial friends. But the pace of play has lagged far behind. Of course, one could say that the pace of play would naturally slow down due to the new crush of players. And that might be so, but golf as a recreation for the average person becomes less attractive as rounds become all day marathons. I believe that the introduction of the golf GPS, may
help save the game.
The old days, folks played the game as a recreation not as much as a sport. You would carry your bag down the fairway, eye the shot, pull a club and fire away. It was a game of feel and not so much a game of ultimate accuracy. As with any game however, people soon became more concerned with score and comparing scores. Jack was one of the first touring pros to meticulously chart each course.

The golfers pace off yardage like caddies to determine which club to select, and if you are an average golfer that becomes very difficult, since you tend to be off the fairway most of the time, and the markers are in the fairway. The new golf GPS can bring back the old days, and let you score your best.

The inexpensive golf GPS units can actually let you play faster than the player of old, who eyed his yardage. When you eye your yardage, you are guessing and guessing takes some time and talent. Using a golf GPS unit you never guess, you look down get front, back and center yardage and you hit the shot. You cannot get tricked by architectural feature, like a
bunker set off the front of the green toward the player. The golf GPS rangefinder will give you exact distances, what your eye sees is irrelevant. A GPS rangefinder will keep you on the proper side of the pin.

The most golfers come up short due to poor strikes, but big scores can come from being long where you are usually chipping down the hill. Coming up long is due to a properly struck shot with the wrong club. Golf GPS eliminates this problem almost completely. Knowing the back yardage of the green is crucial to low scores. A golf GPS gives you the back yardage and
with high scores lurking behind most greens you pull a club that cannot go that far, generally leaving you in the middle, or on the front of the green.

The inexpensive golf GPS units mentioned above, are better for fast play, as they have few buttons and only essential features, such as front, back, center yardage and the shot measuring feature (to measure drive or shot distance). With these golf GPS units you will play faster than the old-time pro who eyeballed his target, because there is no guess work, no
line of sight, just look and go. If a foursome, went out to walk a lightly crowded course and all carried golf GPS units they could finish in 3 hours. And the more popular the golf GPS unit becomes, the faster the game will move on all courses at all times and if you are like most golfers you will see your handicap go down 5 strokes.

How to Learn Playing Golf

2010-04-08T05:08:00.000-07:00

How to Learn Playing Golf

Beginner Golf Tips
When you are starting to play the great game of golf, They will become David Leadbetter or Butch Harmon in their own mind of all places right there on the golf course.

You will quickly learn that there is a time and a place to work on your game. The golf course is where you should play and not practice. Work through all of your beginner golf tips while you are practicing on the driving range, short game area or practice putting green.

So with everyone throwing all of these free beginner golf tips at you, how do you know what to trust? Well, Through golf books, golf DVDs and local golf instruction, there are many credible and qualified sources for you to tap.

The Beginner golf tips:
Short Game
The Opposed to popular belief and actions, if you want to learn how to play the game of golf or if you have played for a long time and want to lower your handicap, learn how to chip and putt. It may not seem as macho or as sexy to learn all of these little short shots as opposed to standing on the driving range banging out long shots. No matter what your current handicap is, if you want to lower your golf scores learn all aspects of the short game. This will drop your scores faster than standing on a driving range for a long period of time week after week.

The question that may put how important the short game is and can help put it into perspective for you. Once your round is finished, do you want to give your buddy a hard time about the one drive you hit past him/her or do you want to brag about the lower score that you shot? Speaking from experience, the ribbing about how your buddy hit one past you is pretty short-lived as he is paying you for winning the bet of lowest score.

One last thought about the short game for you is to make sure you arrive early enough to spend some time on the putting green putting and chipping before your round. You do not need to spend thirty minutes there. You just need to hit enough putts and chip shots to get a good feeling going prior to your round.

Just Have fun
Unfortunately, most people will tell you that they play the game for fun or to relax but their actions simply do not say the same thing. Especially while you are learning the game, you should set little goals for your rounds or practice time. Sometimes they are not even to do anything with golf.

How to Prepare For a Golf Tournament

2010-04-08T05:06:00.000-07:00

How to Prepare For a Golf Tournament

Your club's Match Play or Club Championship is coming up, so how do you get your game in shape? Your tournament will not have grand stands and TV cameras but do not think you will not feel the pressure. With a little thought and preparation, you can give yourself the needed confidence to beat your archrival, win the Club Championship or Match Play tournament.

Granted with your tournament nerves, you are probably not going to be swinging as smooth as Ernie Els when the big day arrives. Now is NOT the time to start messing with your golf swing. I repeat. It is NOT the time to make any major golf swing changes. First of all this is supposed to be fun. You know, better than anyone, your own tendencies. Depending on how much time you have before your golf tournament, chances are you are going to have to find a way to play with what you got. This is fine.

Most of these types of tournaments are flighted. This means players with similar handicaps are pitted against each other. What you can do is check your basics. Review your posture, grip, alignment, and ball position and insure they are in the best shape they can be for your game. Hitting balls is fine but do not go overboard on making changes. The most effective thing you can work on is your swing tempo and insuring that your golf swing is in balance. You can do this by simply counting to three once you finish your golf swing.

Since the average of greens hit in regulation on the PGA Tour is only twelve, you will miss some greens during your round. Set up a practice schedule for your short game up until the golf tournament. You can go out in the evenings when the course is quiet. Go from green to green hitting multiple pitch and chip shots from all around the green. In addition, choose a couple of "nasty" lies just in case you hit a good shot that ends up in a bad place. Although the ultimate goal is to hole the ball, sometime you may need to play away from the hole to be able to make the next shot easier.

Spend most of your time on the practice putting green working on short putts,very short putts. Hit as many two to three foot putts as you can. This does a couple of things for you. First it gives you confidence to see the ball go in the hole over and over again. Second, you will be able to see if you are starting the golf ball on the correct line.

Do not forget to take a look at your golf equipment. Are your grips in good shape? Do they need replaced? If your grips do not need to be replaced, scrub them vigorously with a stiff brush. Use a solution of warm water and dishwashing soap with a degreaser to clean your grips. The degreaser will help remove the oil and dirt buildup that accumulates from your hands over a period of time. Rinse your grips well and pat dry with a towel.

The tournament day is here! Go through your normal warm up. Hit a few pitches, and make sure before you leave the practice green you make about five or ten two footers in a row. Seeing and hearing the ball go in the hole will give you great confidence as you head to the golf course.

Golf Training Aids

2010-04-08T05:04:00.000-07:00

How To Use Golf Training Aids To Get Rid Of Your Slice

The erstwhile golfer groans as the ball dives impudently to the right into trouble, despite his best efforts to guide it to the left. This all too familiar scenario is played out over and over at golf courses across the country. Many golfers are stricken with that most dreaded of golf ailments, the vicious slice.

Likewise, most golfers don't know how to fix the problem so they do the intuitive thing, which is to line up their feet and shoulders to the left of the target. This only exaggerates the slice and leads to great frustration. As if the game of golf isn't frustrating enough already without adding additional difficulties.

Fortunately, it doesn't have to be that way. If you want to ditch the slice and improve your game, then consider adding a couple golf training aids to your practice routine. There are a large variety of training aids designed to help the average guy hit it straighter. So many, in fact, that it can be confusing finding ones that will actually help. I'll give you some tips here that will set you on the right path (pun intended) to getting rid of your slice affliction.

The first type of golf training aid you will need is a swing path device. Most slicers suffer from a nasty outside-in swing path. This means that the club head comes from outside the ball (away from the golfer's body) to the inside (closest to the body) at impact, cutting across the ball. This leads to both a loss of power and a tendency to slice.

To correct this problem, get a golf training aid that visually (or physically) shows you the correct path through the ball at impact, which is square to slightly inside-out. Some training aids have a foam device that the club will hit if you swing outside to in. This is great because it gives you instant feedback when you make a bad swing. Grove the inside-out swing path and you will be 90% of the way to getting rid of your slice.

The second golf training aid that can help get rid of a slice is a device to help you train the timing of your release. This is the point of the downswing at which the wrists release, snapping the club through the ball. The release point is important in generating club head speed at impact, and also in squaring the club face.

When your release is late, then the club face will be left open at impact, resulting in a fade or slice. Golf training aids for the release point are usually some type of shortened club with a device built in that 'clicks' when you release your wrists properly. This provides the instant feedback you need to time your release for impact.

To use these two types of golf training aids, swing path and release, you should straighten out your shots and add some yards as well. Good luck!

Golf Training Aids To Improve Your Chipping

2010-04-08T05:02:00.000-07:00

How To Use Golf Training Aids To Improve Your Chipping

The 18th hole is a lengthy par 4 with a tricky elevated green. You've missed the green to the right on your approach. Your ball sits about 8 feet off the green in the first cut of rough. The lie isn't too bad, but it's a tricky shot.

The left-side pin is about 25 yards away and there is a tricky downhill slope leading to a bunker right behind the target. Unfortunately, your opponent and nemesis is in decent shape with a slick 20 footer for birdie.

Whoever wins the hole wins the round, bragging rights, and 5 skins. If you can chip this one close or somehow get it to drop, you can turn the tables and put the pressure on him. Of course, chip it a little too hard and it's going down in the bunker along with your chances of getting those desperately needed bragging rights.

Are your chipping skills up to the challenge? Moments of reckoning like this come along pretty often in golf. It’s the times when you wonder is your game good enough to pull you through. On tough courses, under pressure, many of these moments come down to hitting a good chip shot.

If your chipping is not the best aspect of your game, consider adding a golf training aid to your practice routine. Golf training aids can help you maximize your results, especially when you have limited time available to practice. Here are some tips to help you find golf training aids for chipping that won't waste your time:

1. Practice at home! You really can improve your chipping in your yard if you practice. If you are pressed for time, this is a great way to keep your short game sharp. Suggested training aids: a small chipping net for a target, and a mat to keep your lawn from looking like Swiss cheese.
To start, chip 10 shots at each target to get a feel for each distance. Then, when you feel confident that you have the feel, Chip one ball to each target to simulate on-course conditions. During a real round you only have one try to get it right!

2. Get a golf training aid that is some sort of wedge with a lengthened shaft, about 1 foot longer than normal. The long shaft will help you keep your wrist firm through the ball. This helps a lot with your consistency. Follow whatever exercises come with the golf training aid. It's fairly simple but you have to practice.

3. Tempo is just as important in chipping as it is during the full swing. Get an adjustable golf metronome and use it to get a good rhythm for your chipping stroke. Also practice your pre-chip routine because rhythm in your routine is very important in pressure situations.

4. Get a short game DVD! Butch Harmon, David Leadbetter, Hank Haney, etc. All these guys know tons of stuff about the short game that can be very helpful to the average golfer.

Good luck and chip away at your handicap!

Improve Golf Swing With Good Posture

2010-04-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

Improve Golf Swing With Good Posture

The significance of your posture goes far beyond daily life. Your posture can alter, how you play your favorite sports. Actually, most sports need various types of posture in order to successful attain, the goal of winning the game. The sport of golf is not different, if you have bad posture within your golf game, than this will have a negative effect on your golf swing.

One of the best golf swing tips that anyone can receive is how to perfect, their posture to improve their golf game. The power, emphasise and accuracy of your golf swing lays within your posture, however, if your posture does not meet proper guidelines, than your overall game will be affected.

That you realize the importance of posture in your golf game, how can you attain the ideal posture? More importantly, what is the ideal golf posture? While many people feel that good golfing posture is simply lowering their chin to view the golf ball, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Never has there been a golfing technique that has the ability to be interpreted in such a wide variety of ways. While some feel that keeping your body drastically relaxed and unrestricted will give you perfect golfing posture, other believe that a rigid stance and stiff upper body movement is the ideal posture. However, both of these beliefs are half true and half false.

The optimal golfing posture is notably easy to find, all it takes is an noticing of how your body is positioned. To set your body up for good posture, you must remember three key elements. The first is always keeping your back straight. This will allow you to keenly include all of your core muscles that are found in your torso.

Never allow your back to sag, or hunch over. This will actually weaken your golf swing, and throw your accuracy completely off. Next, always make sure that you bend your upper body at the hips. How you can achieve this is by sticking out your backside as if you are going to be sitting in a chair and then bend slightly forward. Make sure that you don’t arch your back, always keeping a strong and aligned spine. After performing this, allow your arms to hang down in front of you.

Always make sure that you evenly distribute your weight throughout your legs. Keep your knees bent, but allow them to be flexible enough to give your legs a spring to them. It is common for this posture to feel awkward at first; however, desired posture always feels more intense than it really is. Although, if you are feeling any pain in your lower back, make sure that your quadriceps are absorbing all of your body’s weight. Keep your feet extremely steadfast, and your shoulders and arms unconstrained and in a natural state.

The Golf swing tips are a dime a dozen, however, here comes a tip that many people aren’t aware of, and that is what do you do with your head? Never allow your head to stay focused on the ground the entire time. This will wreck your golf game, and cause you to have horrible shots. Instead, always let your head follow the ball. Whenever the ball leaves the ground so should your head. Your head is habituated to your body, thus allow it to be as free as your arms, legs, hips and feet. It’s okay for your head to move with the golf ball, actually, it’s recommended.

Junior Golf

2010-04-08T04:56:00.000-07:00

Junior Golf

The majority of professional golfers on the golfing circuit today would have cut their teeth playing junior golf.

Amongst that rank would be Eldrick Woods, who won the Optimist International Junior Championship in 1984, aged 8 years, and went onto win it again in 1985, ’88, ’89, ’90 and ’91 and, at the tender age of 15 became the youngest player in history to win the US Amateur Golf Championship in 1991 and in the following year, successfully defended the title.

Along with many golfers, Eldrick, or Tiger as he is better known, developed his love of the game whilst still a child. Unfortunately for most golfers, unlike Tiger Woods, our love of the game outweighs our talent, but who knows, maybe one day.

Phil Mickelson’s won 34 titles in San Diego county whilst still a junior golfer and learned his golf style by imitating his father’s actions and became a right-handed, left-handed golfer (Phil is right handed in every other area of his life, but, the mirroring of his father made for a left- handed golfer).

The American golfers who have cut their golfing teeth playing junior golf: Lee Westwood was a, comparatively, late starter when he took up golf at 13 years old, but, less than two years later he was Nottinghamshire’s Junior Golf Champion and has not looked back since. Ian Poulter was at the tender age of four when he first played and Severiano “Seve” Ballesteros, who came from a golfing family, received a cut down 3 iron when he was 7 years old and by the grand old age of 13 was already winning events ( presumably not with the cut down iron).

Some junior golfers may never reach the heady heights of Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson or Seve, but, by encouraging young golfers and with patience and understanding, a junior golfer can be encouraged to reach their potential and foster a love of golf that can last a lifetime.

Golf buy it online stock and supply golf equipment and attire that has been engineered to meet the requirements of junior golf enthusiasts, who may one day be playing professional golf alongside their golfing heroes instead of emulating their styles in the junior golfing ranks.

Learn The Secrets Of Golf

2010-03-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

Learn The Secrets Of Golf

The Secrets of golf! Most golfers will do absolutely anything to improve their golf game and this is the reason why most are constantly in search of golf secrets to improve their game.

More often that not ends up in total failure. It all usually starts with lots of excitement when they discover some new aspect or tip they did not know before and they quickly practice and implement it into their game.

Sadly the desired effect does not result and their game hardly improves. Still they continue with their desperate search of more golf secrets to improve their games.

The reason why they fail is simply the fact that they fail to appreciate the real secret of golf. The secret, which is guaranteed to revolutionize any golfer's game.

The real secrets of golf, like most secrets of success, is so simple that it is easy to miss or even discard when you hear about it or read even read about it.

The real secret of golf capable of having a dramatic effect on any game is preparing and conditioning your body and muscles to take the punishment and strain that golf inflicts on it. That's it.

Playing golf is not like walking, it does not come naturally. Even kicking a soccer ball comes much more naturally than a golf swing. The result is that the body resists the correct movements required to execute a perfect golf swing.

The most effective way of dealing with this resistance in the body is for you to condition and strengthen the muscles that are stretched and put under strain by the act of the golf swing.

If you do that successfully, the golf swing will come much more naturally and it will show in your game. Do not be cheated, there is no other more valuable secret of the golf game.

Golf Stand Bags

2010-03-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Golf Stand Bags

5 Questions to Have Answered Before You Buy

Today there are many different golf stand bags on the market let alone the availability of all types of golf bags. Though all of us would like to find cheap golf stand bags, I am not sure that we are ready to put up with the lack of quality or durability that we are looking for in a bag.

What are you looking for in a golf bag? If you walk any rounds of golf at all then you will need to own what is called golf stand bags or golf carry bags. A cart bag is way too heavy to carry around the course and enjoy your round.

What else are you going to need to know before you can make the decision on which of the golf stand bags will be your new purchase? Below are five questions that will help you through all of the different types of golf stand bags and make sure that you select the best golf bag for you.

What is my price range?
This may sound like a simple question but it is one that needs to be asked before looking at golf stand bags. Within reason, you will get what you pay for. This does not mean that the mid-priced stand bags are not as good as the most expensive golf bags. However, there is a big jump from the cheapest bags to the mid level bags.

How much are you going to play?
If you do not play much, you may want to go with a cheaper bag. Since you will not be using it as much, it will not need to be as durable over the long haul as for someone that plays multiple times in a week.

Other than golf clubs, how much equipment do you usually carry?
This would include a rain suit, umbrella, extra gloves, extra balls, hats, teaching aids, snacks and maybe even medicine. You need to keep in mind that every extra thing that you take will equate to extra weight that you will be carrying out on the golf course.

Does it have all of the features I need?
This is where the question of how many pockets and where they are located becomes important. You can now buy a ladies golf bag with up to nine pockets on it. Can you fit a jacket into the bag in case you get cold or it begins to rain? Do you need a pocket for a water bottle and do you really need it?

Is it the right color for you?
It is not talking about does it match your skin color but do you like the color scheme of the bag? With the golf stand carry bags being built as unisex bags sometimes the only thing that will make it a ladies golf bag or a men's golf bag is the color scheme. Many ladies like a pink golf bag to show their feminine side.

Answering the 5 questions before you start searching through the many new golf stand carry bags will help you make a better decision on the golf bag that is right for you and will help you enjoy the game.

Golf Travel Bags

2010-03-30T18:58:00.000-07:00

Golf Travel Bags

How to Pick the Best One

Whether you are a professional or an amateur golfer, golf travel bags are a must for any golfer who travels to play golf on business or vacation. If you are anything like me when it comes to packing for a trip, I want to take as little as possible. When end up packing some of stuff in a golf travel bag along with the golf bag and golf clubs.

As you are looking to purchase a golf travel bag you will want to debate which of the following features are important to you and which features that you will need as opposed to features that you want:

Storage Size

Face it, although we all would like to live out of a golf travel bag, most of the time the bag will be in storage somewhere in the house or the hotel room while on your trip. How small does it fold up becomes a legitimate question especially on your trip. If you purchase a hard golf case as it will not give.

TSA Approved
If you fly to your golf destinations you will want to make sure that you purchase a TSA Approved Travel Bag. As the airlines are restricting the types of bags they carry as well as the overall weight of a bag, owning a TSA Approved golf travel bag can ease many of your headaches. Many times, manufacturers will offer a TSA Approved lock for your bag. This will keep you from needing to purchase a new lock if the TSA decides they need to search the bag.

Wheels
Some people will think that this is a given but some golf travel covers today are still made without wheels. All you have to do is lug a golf travel bag through any major airport one time and you will be ready to purchase a unit with wheels. It makes maneuvering through the airport much easier and much less stressful.

Colors
The colors available are absolutely endless. You can purchase a black, green, pink or navy golf travel bag. You can pick your favorite colors or even pick your favorite college teams colors in order to show your school spirit. Many manufacturers will also allow embroidery on the bag. You can create a personalized golf travel bag by having your name, company logo or again your favorite college teams logo embroidered on the side of the bag.

Pockets
These can be on the outside or on the inside of the bag. Many bags will have pockets on the inside in order to carry your shoes on the trip. Other interior pockets can be used to store extra clothes for your trip if you are going to be in multiple climates while on your trip.

As you are shopping for your travel golf bag, you will need to compare the amenities that you need as opposed to what you want. Then comparison shop as you would for any other item to find yourself the best deal. Once you are done with this then you will be ready to plan a golf vacation.

Golf Practice Nets

2010-03-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

Golf Practice Nets

3 Good Options

Set up your own driving range right at your house with a golf practice net that will allow you to work on your golf game without going to the driving range. Today, there are many options of portable golf nets that you can use at your home and we will give you information on three nets.

The Big Mouth
Utilizing a fiberglass hoop frame, the Big Mouth golf practice net eliminates the hassle of setting up frame poles and clipping net hangers. Simply toss The big Mouth golf practice net where you want it and the net will automatically spring to life. From there, it is up to you on how fast you can place a tee in the ground and start practicing.

Closed, the Big Mouth is a thirty-six inch flat disk that only weighs about fifteen pounds and stores practically anywhere. The Big Mouth expands from a three-foot disk to a seven by nine foot golf net what will feel faster than you can get away the first few times.

Another feature of the Big Mouth is the introduction of woven netting. The "knotless" technology allows the mesh to stretch and absorb the ball's force resulting in a net that is thirty percent stronger. In addition you will have an adjustable chipping net that hangs in the middle of the Big Mouth's frame. The chipping net is suspended on four sides by adjustable chords which allow you to set the position of the chipping net to work on high lob shots or low bump and run shots.

The Super Cage Mouth Net
The Super Cage Mouth Net is a premium practice net and will allow you to improve your golf game at home or take it to your in-laws to give you something to do while you are there! The Super Cage Mouth Net has a patented pop-up and is a premium practice net made of high durability nylon. It easily folds flat to 46-inches and can be used indoors or outside. Folding flat, The Super Cage Mouth Net can be stored easily when you are not using it as it. The Super Cage Mouth Net has a 10' x 12' Hitting Area.

The Golf Giant Mouth Net
The unique shape of the Golf Giant Mouth Net allows you to hit all of the clubs in your bag. Whether you need to work on your Driver, Fairway woods, Irons or Wedges, the Golf Giant Mouth Net has the room to allow you to work on any golf club in your golf bag. The Giant golf net is the perfect way to practice your swing without going to the range.

The premium mesh netting is engineered and tested to be the strongest in golf. The golf net comes with a nylon storage case that travels easily wherever you want to take it. Do not mess with confusing complicated driving nets, the Giant is quick and easy to setup as well as to take down.

Golf Fitness Equipment

2010-03-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

Golf Fitness Equipment to Put Into Your Golf Workout

When you are practicing on your game but you want to hit the driver farther and straighter. A good teaching professional could help you but you do not want to spend all of that money. Golf fitness equipment may be the answer for you. Many times the students we teach are not flexible enough to reach the correct golf swing positions. This is where we have to improvise as teachers and players. With this in mind, it is easier to make one lever move the same direction every single time as opposed to two levers.

The golf fitness equipment that you need may be as simple as an exercise mat. With an exercise mat, you will be able to improve your flexibility by doing golf-specific stretching exercises. There are many golf fitness books that spell out a golf flexibility program for you. Whatever you do, before you start a rigorous golf workout or golf stretching program, be sure to consult your physician for approval.

What should an ideal golf fitness flexibility program consist of and what types of golf fitness equipment should it include?

Your golf fitness program should have many variations such as a long version for regular training days and a short version for Pre-Round Stretching. A variety of golf fitness equipment will help keep you interested in your workout. A few variations with the large exercise ball should also be included. Using the golf exercise ball during your golf specific workout is extremely important for the golfer as it allows you to work out your core muscles. Your pre-round stretching routine you can do even with a couple of stretches with a couple of golf clubs to do just before tee-off and between holes if necessary.

Your stretching and workout program should be thorough. The program should address your head and neck and go all of the way down to the feet. Why is this? The reason is because the golf swing is a movement of the entire body.

Your program must be symmetrical for your body. This simply means that what you workout or stretch or workout out on one side of your body, you also need to do the same on the other side. This is the true key to maintaining optimal muscle, tendon and joint balance on both sides of your body. This allows for enhanced golf swing power without a large increase in swing effort. In addition and more importantly, you will keep your body equal on both sides.

The program must include several key compound stretches. Compound stretches elongate several joint areas at the same time which will mimic natural movement patterns. This also allows the golfer to be more accurate through enhanced fitness flexibility, body awareness and control.

You should feel good afterward. The type of stretch routine or golf specific workout using golf fitness equipment should make you feel as if your posture is immediately better and you should feel stronger. You should almost feel like you could rip the cover off a ball if you were to hit one right after your golf fitness stretch routine.

The golf fitness equipment for your workout can vary depending on what you are attempting to improve. Many successful golf workout programs use golf fitness equipment such as free weights, weighted practice clubs, resistance cords, medicine balls and an exercise mat.

Beginners Guide To Golf

2010-03-30T18:54:00.000-07:00

Beginners Guide To Golf

Your First Set Of Golf Clubs

The golf clubs are expensive items yet are essential when is comes to playing the game of golf. The most important tip I was given was that when first starting out was never buy a new set of clubs. Once you are sure you enjoy the game enough to take it seriously then and only then should you contemplate new clubs.

When you are starting out there is so much to consider and learn. Golf is a difficult sport and you may decide it is not for you. Once you have got past the initial learning stage you will want to choose clubs that fit you and suit your golfing style. The best way to start is to begin your golfing career with cheap used clubs.

So you have decided you want to play golf and you don't want the expense of new clubs but where are you going to find these cheaper alternatives the following are some excellent suggestions:

Golf rental clubs - Most golf clubs have sets of clubs that can be rented these are predominantly for visitors who have not been able to bring their own but can also be hired by beginners. Whilst playing with others or on the driving range ask your friends if you can try their clubs this will provide you with an opportunity to find which clubs suit you.

Ask the resident expert - Most golf clubs have a golf shop with a resident expert, they will be able to advise you where to start and may also have some previously owned clubs that have been traded in by members upgrading. Some clubs also offer a service to their members where they will offer to sell their unwanted golfing goods.

You should always consult people who know golf equipment well as they will be able to offer you the best suggestions for clubs etc to suit your style and ability

Car Boot Sales And Internet Auctions - These are fantastic places for picking up bargains to try. You can buy individual clubs or whole sets. It is a great way to try different clubs without spending a fortune and is the club is not for you then you can resell it on e-bay! The downside is that you are unable to try before you buy but if you have done some research beforehand you will have a fair idea what it is you are looking for.

You may find that your second hand clubs are a little worn this shouldn't be a problem as it is quite inexpensive to replace grips and a little 'spit & polish' goes a long way. Try to pick clubs that are in good condition but be realistic in the fact that all clubs need maintenance at some point

Remember the best way to choose a used club is to actually hold it in your hand and attempt to play the shot they were meant for this will give you the chance to see how they 'feel'. The feel of a golf club is important as if you feel comfortable with the club the more likely you are to be successful with it. Confidence is a big factor when playing golf.

The Grip of Golf Swing

2010-03-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

The Golf Swing 1 - The Grip

Every golfer is different and what works for one does not always work for someone else. On the other hand there are basic principles and techniques that can be gainfully utilized by 95% of golfers

As stated previously, when the first learned to play golf, it required a lot of experimenting and reading golf books and magazines in order to really get a feel for the correct golf swing for me. The grip is a very important and integral part of the golf swing. There are a number of different types of grip methods. There is the Vardon Grip ( named after the great Harry Vardon one of the premier golfers of the early 20th century ) The Baseball Grip, also appropriately named because the grip is similar to one you may use to hold a baseball bat, and my personal favorite, The Interlocking Grip, which incorporates the interlocking of the two hands together to form the grip.

Note: Many of the instructional books, DVD's and Videos will illustrate these grips if you would like to see them in a visual presentation. If you are sports oriented and have never read or viewed any instructional information about the grip then you may have a tendency to use and feel more comfortable with the baseball grip. Though i felt more comfortable i wasn't satisfied with the results. One day i was playing in a group with a considerably better player, probably a two to four handicap. I took note to some of his swing techniques and one of the things i noted was his golf grip. As we were waiting on one hole i asked him about it. He showed me how to do it and i have not changed my grip since. The steps i now use in setting my golf club grip are as follows: 1- i set or cradle the club in the creased part of the fingers of my left hand allowing the top of the club to protrude approximately 1" to 1 1/2" past the bottom part of the same hand which will actually be facing upward and toward your waist and belt area when you set the club to prepare to swing.

Note: While gripping with the left hand make sure the clubface stays closed or close to perpendicular to your target line. Also for a fairly strong grip, which i would highly recommend, make sure the first two or even three knuckles of your left hand are positioned facing up so you can see them when looking down on your hand and club. Then allow the thumb of the left hand to lay across the top of the grip on a slight angle to the right while keeping the thumb straight and on top of the club.

Note: There are various ways to grip the club ( stronger and weaker grips ) to allow your swing to work the ball right or left but it is a more advanced technique should not be attempted until your game has progressed to a certain level. Next, set the club in the creased part of the fingers of the right hand and interlock the pinky of your right hand with the index finger of your left, thus the derivative of the name interlocking grip. The meaty part of the palm of your right hand, connected to the thumb, should be facing upward so you can also see it similar to the knuckles of the left.

Note: You can experiment at the range with the adjustment of the strength of the grip that works best for you, (turn hands to right for a stronger grip and left for weaker ) Also, please note that the grip methodology noted above is for the right handed player and should be reversed for the left handed golfer. Another important thing to remember, Do Not let your right shoulder come forward when taking the grip with the right hand. It should remain back and aligned with your left shoulder. It should also be slightly lower than your left since your right hand is set lower on the club when taking the grip.

A tip i would suggest to help with your alignment to the target is to pick an intermediate target, that is in close proximity in front of you, ( it could be a leaf , dandelion ,or discoloration in the grass, etc. ) that is also in line with the golf ball and target line to the intended landing area in the fairway or on the green and use that spot to line up your shot. The Vardon Grip is similar to the interlocking grip except for the fact that the right pinky finger is cradled between the outside part of the left hand index and middle finger and does not interlock at all.
The baseball grip is basically the same as if you were holding a bat in your hand and preparing to hit a baseball. It is probably the most comfortable, especially to the new golfer, but in my opinion the least effective of the grip selections available. The interlocking or Vardon grips may feel more uncomfortable at first but once you get used to them you will be much happier with the improvement they may promote in your game. This is the first part of my "Swing" checklist and an important one at that. When you are at the range or swinging in your yard take the time to work on your grip so it becomes second nature to you.

In closing, i would like to add one very important and so often overlooked part of the ENTIRE golf swing - "RELAX" - do not let tension creep into any part of your golf swing. The club should be cradled gently in your hands with about as much pressure as if you were holding a babies hand or a small bird in your hand and use the old expression to "Let the club do the work". You will be amazed at how swing speed and technique, together with a relaxed body and mind, produce so much greater results. Happy Golfing!

The Golf Swing 2

2010-03-30T18:43:00.000-07:00

The Golf Swing 2

After the ball is set on the tee, step back and “Relax”. The next step is to position your body in relation to the ball. The proper alignment to the target is key to accuracy in the set up. You should choose an intermediate target directly in front of you and in line with the golf ball and your intended landing area. Once you have selected your spot the next step is to take your stance parallel to that line.

Note: To practice aligning correctly to the target two clubs can be placed on the ground - One will be placed adjacent the golf ball and will be pointing directly in line with the ball, your intermediate spot and the landing or target area. The other will be placed in parallel to the first but at the area where your feet will be placed. Once you practice for a while utilizing this method you should acquire a feel for the correct alignment technique.

Note: The set up can be performed with the feet and body positioned open or closed, in other words, out of alignment to the target line which will allow the golfer to work the ball left or right depending on the set up of the golf hole. This is done deliberately to promote the left to right or right to left ball movement. It is also a technique employed by the more experienced player and is not recommended for the beginning golfer. After you have established your line, the next step is the placement of your feet. When take the stance, place the right foot almost perpindicular or turned slightly to the right of perpindicular to target line and left foot is angled about 45 degrees left of a perpindicular line toward the target

Note: the information provided is meant for the right handed golfer and should be reversed for those left handed. The distance between my feet is approximately shoulder width, especially for the driver. This allows for stability in the stance, which is important in maintaining good balance thru out the swing. As you take your stance the knees should be bent slightly and the upper body should be tilted forward a bit at the waist. The head should be kept upright so the chin does not impede the backswing and shoulder turn, which will be addressed in the next step. As the body tilts slightly forward at the waist and you have taken your grip, make sure you allow your hands to fall in a relaxed position almost directly below your line of sight if you looked straight down - not too far or too close to your body. The hands and club to be approximately six to eight inches away from the body, depending on your height, if done correctly.

Emphasize the importance of ”Relaxing” for the set up and the entire golf swing. It doesn't mean to the point of falling asleep, but there should be no tension in the body, especially the arms, shoulders and legs. This will promote a much better tempo and allow the speed of the swing and the club to do the work, which in turn will produce much better results. Since all golfers are different in stature and ability, they may utilize a variation on the ideology noted above. This information is derived from personal knowledge and over 30 years of experience of playing golf and would hope it would be helpful to the majority of golfers. There is nothing like practice and experience for learning the correct way to swing a golf club. In order for the practice to be efficient and your ability to improve you must have the basic foundation in place for the proper swing, playing techniques and strategies of the game. Happy Golfing!

How To Improve Golf Game

2010-03-27T06:05:00.000-07:00

Power Walking
How To Improve Your Golf Game With One Simple Exercise

Power Walking

This is a form of aerobic exercise consisting of rapid walking accompanied by vigorous, controlled swinging of the arms. Simply put, it is an exaggerated walking style that has more health benefits than just a casual stroll.
You want to get your power walking speed up to 4.0 to 4.5 mph for optimal calorie burning. However, if you are just starting out you may want to go at a slower pace and gradually pick up the pace over a few weeks time.

Power Walking Benefits

1. Cardiovascular fitness is improved thus giving you more endurance to complete a full round of golf, not to mention reducing the risk of coronary disease and strokes.

2. Mental well-being is improved resulting in a reduction in anxiety, stress and tension allowing you to relax and focus on the golf course.

3. Muscles are toned and strengthened allowing you to better handle the physical demands of the golf swing.

4. Helps to reduce body fat and manage your body weight therefore improving your golf physic.

5. Boosts energy so you don't tire as easily going form shot to shot.

The above are just a few of the physical and mental benefits to be gained from power walking for golf. It is a low cost form of exercise. No special clothes or equipment are necessary except a good pair of walking shoes.

Though any form of walking is beneficial, power walking is extremely helpful with golf performance, both mentally and physically. So grab your walking shoes and power walk yourself to a better golf game!

As always consult your doctor before starting your power walking program.

Tips to become A More Solid Putter

2010-03-27T06:03:00.000-07:00

Golf Putting Tips To Help You
Become A More Solid Putter

The game of golf can be very rewarding to learn and play. There are many aspects to the game and putting has often been said to be a separate game altogether. Learning how to putt can be quite a challenge. Some people pick it up quickly and become good but often they encounter difficulties down the road and develop the dreaded putting yips. Here some useful tips to help you become a good putter and stay that way.

Putt To Make It:

Many golfers on long putts try to just get the ball close to the hole. They often will aim for a 3 foot circle. The problem with this strategy is that you are just increasing your margin for error. A better approach would be to always putt to make it. This means that on every putt your goal is to make the putt.

This does not mean you have to hit the putt hard in order to make sure to get it to the hole. Instead think of making every putt by seeing the ball dying into the hole on the last rotation. This way your misses will be much closer.

Trust Your First Impression:

When you are reading greens it can be very easy to get overwhelmed and start doubting how the putt will break. When you first approach a green take a bit of time to look at the putt from a few different angles. After that simply come up with a good solid first impression and stick with that.

It is very important to be decisive on your putts. You must trust the read you make and believe the ball will go in the hole. This does not mean you will make every putt. Your goal is to give every putt the best chance of going in the hole and this way of thinking will allow you to do that. Remember that even the best professionals misread greens so when you do misread a few putts just forget about them and believe your next read will be accurate.

Focus On Your Successful Putts:

If you play a lot of golf then you will inevitably miss a lot of putts. It can become very easy to dwell on these misses. However there is no doubt that you have made a fair number of putts too and some of them have probably been quite spectacular. Be sure to celebrate all the great putts you have made. This will ingrain into your mind the good putts you have made and will help to build your putting confidence.

Be sure to remind yourself of some of the greatest putts you have ever made. One good thing to do is each day before you go to bed think about the top 3 putts you have ever made. Replay them in your mind as vividly as you can and really experience the joy and satisfaction that making those putts gave you. Never suppress your emotions on successful putts, of course do not brag too much either, instead celebrate internally so you do not appear rude to your playing partners.

Do Not Think Too Much:

It is easy when you are about to hit your putts to start thinking about all sorts of things. Make sure that when you are about to hit your putts you are focused on your target. So make sure to pick out a target like a blade of grass on the edge of the hole or somewhere to the right or left of the hole if you expect the putt to break. Also make sure your target is something small.

Do not think about putting mechanics or how you made the last putt or about how the putt will break as you are about to hit the putt. Just focus on the target and let your mind and body strike the putt in the most accurate manner that will allow the putt to go to the hole with the right direction and speed. Use some of these tips to help you make more putts.

C.O.G. Golf Swing

2010-03-27T05:55:00.000-07:00

The C.O.G. Golf Swing

Where do you Start?
Let’s start with equipment. Not going to get into your set make up or equipment brand,.
I don’t care how good your equipment is, or how much it cost…if your grips are not in good shape, I, (or any Pro for that matter) cannot properly teach you how to swing a golf club.
Almost everyone with on the range or at the club takes pretty good care of his or her golf clubs, with the exception of the grips.
The only contact you have with the golf ball is directly through the grips of your golf clubs, you have to take care of them.

A Professional golfer has their grips cleaned after practice sessions, before a round, during a round, and has them changed regularly.

Have you cleaned your grips yet? Your grips should feel slightly tacky in your hands so you don’t have to squeeze your golf club, which robs you of the ability to swing the golf club with any speed or consistency.

Most grips today are still made out of rubber or a rubber compound that can be kept in “like new” condition simply with hot soapy water.

When you play golf or practice, the dust, dirt, and oil from your hands gets ground into the pores of the rubber, clogging them up and making your grips slick and hard. Washing your grips will clean out the pores making your grips feel tacky again and ready for your next round.

If your grips have been neglected for a while, try a window cleaner solution on them, this will cut through the oils and dirt and should bring even a neglected grip back to life. If they have been badly neglected and you can’t get them back to a “tacky” state, have them replaced at your local Pro-Shop.

The good news is they’re very inexpensive, starting at around $2.00, and while you’re there you can have them sized to fit your hand perfectly.

This will help immensely when you learn to swing the golf club using the C.O.G. effortless power method. Tthat you’ve got your grips cleaned and looked after, keep them that way, every Professional golfer has new grips or has their grips cleaned before every round.

If you have a high tech grip material and you’re not sure what to clean them with, simply contact the manufacturer and ask, they will last longer and perform much better. Notice at the top and the bottom of your grip. There is a small hash mark that indicates the center mark of your shaft, these are very important marks, take notice of them now, and we’ll talk more about them later. Now that we have that looked after, we can talk about the BOSS of the golf club.

The BOSS:
Your target side hand, (the one with the glove) is the Boss of the golf club, that’s why we wear the glove on that hand. On the target hand, (the left hand for right handed golfers) the top three fingers assume control of the golf club. This is the Pinky, the Ring, and the Middle finger, (2) leaving the index finger and thumb to rest lightly on the grip. When these three fingers are in control of the golf club, you will be able to swing the club at a high speed with very little effort and fire your “Piston” *(release the club head), however, if your trail hand (right hand for right hand golfers) gets involved, it will slow down the swinging process and turn the action into a “hit”.

Hole in your glove?

1. If you are the golfer that always has a hole in the heel of your golf glove, not only going to save your $50 to $100 dollars in golf gloves this year alone, but also should save you a quite a few strokes as well. The hole in your golf glove comes from the BOSS fingers giving up control of the golf club. When you take your back swing, if at the top of your swing, the BOSS fingers have let go, creating a gap between your fingers and the heel of your hand; the hole in the glove is soon to follow.

Why does this happen?
The head of a swinging golf club weighs about a pound for every mile per hour it moves through centrifugal force. A typical golf professional moves the club head from the address position to the top of the backswing in approximately 1 second. At the point of transition to the down swing, the club head weighs about 14 pounds. That’s the equivalent of a 14-pound weight being held by the top 3 fingers of the target (gloved) hand.
Most people can hold this weight OK but if the club travels to the top of the swing faster than that, the transition weight of the club head becomes heavier and the separation of the top 3 fingers (or the GAP) occurs. When the (GAP) happens, you transfer control of the club head to the Trail hand (right hand) and the butt end of the grip rubs or tears the leather of the glove on the transition to the downswing.
This all happens very quickly and is hard to catch if you don’t know what to look for or what is actually happening. The dreaded hole in the glove is NOT a normal occurrence in golf; it is the product of a change of control of the golf club from your target hand, to your trail hand during the course of transition from the top of your back swing to the beginning of your down swing.
This action can and even MUST be controlled if you are to learn to swing a golf club like you see your favorite Professional swing it every day. We’ll discuss how to control this little later on in the book when we set up the easy 3-piece golf swing and discover that 1-move can solve 4 problems we have in the backswing alone and set us up for consistency and power in our swing towards the target.

2. The other benefit of learning to control your golf club with the top 3 fingers of the BOSS hand at the transition point to the downswing is controlling the “FAT” shot. The fat shot is the one where you stick the club head into the ground before it touches the golf ball, sending it trickling mere feet from where you’re standing. The fat shot is a totally wasted stroke as little or no ground is covered and we have to hit the same shot over again. At the transition point of your golf swing when the club changes direction back to the ball, if your BOSS hand loses control of the golf club, the weight of the club head rests on the trigger finger (index finger) of your Trail hand (right hand) and that hand becomes the BOSS of the golf club at that moment. Once the trail hand becomes the BOSS of the golf club, the down swing motion becomes too steep and your trail hand throws the club head into the ground behind the ball. If this is the case, you may have noticed your ball position creeping back in your stance and your shots traveling too low and too far for the club you’re using at the moment. This is a side effect of a weak BOSS hand; you have to change the geometry of your golf swing in order to make contact with the ball. When this condition develops, all kinds of mistakes can happen as you try to judge where the bottom of your swing is going to happen.

Always remember, when your target side hand (the one with the glove) is the BOSS of the golf club, the bottom of your golf swing will always be on your Center of Gravity (shirt-button) so you can predict proper ball position, trajectory, and distance control of each club in your bag, and eliminate the dreaded FAT shot.

Understanding The Golf Franchise Industry

2010-03-27T05:52:00.000-07:00

Understanding The Golf Franchise Industry

The golf franchise industry has seen an explosion in new and exciting concepts over the past 5 years. With an aging population and many people wanting to get out of corporate America, take control of their schedule, take control of their earning potential and start a new career, golf franchising is answering the call. Many of these new golf franchise systems are following the roots of franchising and offering food related systems. For those who do not want to be stuck in a kitchen or restaurant during their golden years, there are many franchise systems that outdoors and based on activities that have a broad appeal. The game of golf is no exception to this growth.

Traditionally golf franchise systems have been concerned with the sale of equipment through retail stores. Long hours, high investment and over head were just some of the reasons people did not want to get involved in a golf business. Most golf business occurs on the weekends and during holidays. Spending your golden years working 12 hour days behind a counter over the weekend does not sound very golden, does it?

What if there was another opportunity that would get you outside, still be involved in golf, give you control over your schedule and not leave you income up to the latest big bertha club that was created? Synthetic turf products have come a long way over the years and one company Intelli Turf, Inc. actually installs golf greens that hold shots from 180 yards away and play just like natural grass.

The Intelli Turf’s franchisees are sales and marketing professionals that love golf. They are people who are looking to build a business with a golf career, not buy a job. Golfers who would like to build equity in a business related to their passion. After training they become golf designers of backyard putting greens and consultants for all types of properties from multi-housing developments to some of the nicest residences in their protected territories.

This golf business franchise opportunity calls for the marketing, sales, design and installation of putting greens, short game practice areas, and actual golf courses. Intelli Turf’s artificial greens are actually golf greens, not just for putting. They hold shots from 180 yards away and the pace of the greens can be altered to match the greens in the area.

As the owner of this golf business the franchisee can set their own hours, price jobs as they see fit which gives them control of their profit margin and design beautiful amenities that add value to their client’s property. This is a good opportunity for an entrepreneur.

While Intelli Turf is primarily focused on golf surfaces, other products are offer for many applications and properties. Artificial turf is installed as lawns for private residences and on public and commercial land. Play areas provide up to 4 inches of cushion for playgrounds at schools, churches, parks and neighborhood amenity areas.

Intelli Turf offers a golf franchise business opportunity but also includes many other applications that golfers and business professionals will enjoy representing.

Backswing

2010-03-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

The Golf Swing ( "The Backswing" )

Before start the backswing a few reminders or tips :

1. When you tee the golf ball, especially for use with the driver be sure to set it at the proper height.
Note: The rule of thumb is the ball should sit approximately 1/2 of the diameter of the golf ball above the clubhead when the club is set on the ground.

2. Stay "Relaxed" during all phases of your swing - Note: If you've chosen to incorporate The Waggle into your swing routine then utilize it to its fullest advantage and make it not only your swing trigger but your reminder to "Relax" as well.

3. Make sure your head is upright so as not to impede the shoulder turn on the backswing.

4. Keep your left arm as straight as possible Note: Keeping the left arm straight may feel uncomfortable at first but it is critical to promoting consistent ball striking, accuracy and distance.

Now you're ready to go.
That does not mean that one method is right or wrong there are just different techniques and methodology used by different instructors. Immediately after The Waggle or no waggle, if that is your preference, you are ready to execute the swing. Most of the instructional material, when its first learning to play, taught a move to start the backswing called the "One Piece Take Away". This means that your two arms, hands and the club formed a Y shape, which it does, and they would move back away from the target in one piece or motion while maintaining the Y shape.
By this mean that instead of taking the club back in the Y formation would break the wrist and start the backswing in more of an L position. Either method will work and it is a matter of personal preference and which feels more comfortable for you. In either method the wrists should be set by about waist height and the club should be pointing skyward as your arms approach parallel to the ground.
Your weight should shift to your right side ( without a lateral movement of the body ) and your upper body should continue turning away from the target with minimal turning of the hips. This will allow a coiling of the upper body and a more powerful release as you uncoil in your Downswing. Make sure your shoulder turns under your chin and your back is facing the target, which will also promote a more powerful and accurate swing.
Note: Do Not Overturn or Over Rotate. Tilt the body slightly forward at the waist and remain in a reasonably upright position. This will create a spine angle which should be maintained during most of your swing. The Backswing and The Downswing should rotate around the spine as the central pivot point. The more that rotation can be maintained the more accurate and powerful the results will be.

When you reach the top of the backswing in practice make sure the club is pointing back toward the target line, which will happen automatically if your wrists are set properly. This will allow the club to stay on line to prepare for The Downswing. Like to stress again the importance of a straight left arm and to "Relax" always. Let's recap our checklist so far - Tee the Ball, take your grip , perform your Set Up Routine and re-adjust your grip, if necessary, execute the Waggle, and make your backswing and most importantly - Have Fun!

Important Golf Tips for Beginners

2010-03-27T05:41:00.000-07:00

Important Golf Tips for Beginners

Starting in the game of golf can be confusing with all of the equipment available, people offering you free tips, and the feeling that you have to take everything so seriously.
There are three golf tips for beginners that I was given by my instructor when I started, and that has really been a big help to me.

1. Don't Break the Bank With Your First Set of Clubs
As the beginner, you are not going to get all of the benefits that come from a top of the line set of golf clubs. As a beginner, you are not going to have the consistent contact or club head speed needed. Instead, think about buying a cheaper set, or better yet, get yourself a used set. You may also be able to use a free set from one of your more experienced friends until you figure out which clubs would be best for you.

2. Be Aware of Who is Giving You Instruction
Your friends, relatives, and sometimes people who don't even know you will think they have the golf tips for beginners that will fix all of your problems. Granted, if you have friends who are pretty good golfers, it may help to listen to them when you are first starting. However, to really understand the game, as a beginner, get your instruction from a professional. Golf pros are experienced in fixing swing problems and explaining things to you in terms of how they affect ball flight. Lessons are available at most any golf course, and even just a couple will really help set a good foundation for your game.

3. Enjoy Yourself
It may sound simple, but one of the best golf tips for beginners is to just have fun with the game. Keep in mind that you are probably not going to be getting your PGA card. Being competitive is fine, and of course you are going to want to continue to improve, but golf is a leisure game. Take your time out there and have fun with your friends.

These 3 golf tips for beginners can make all of the difference in the world. If you just get the right clubs to start, take instruction from those who know the game, and have fun, then golf will be a great way for you to spend your leisure time.

Golf Swing Tempo

2010-03-07T18:44:00.000-08:00

Golf Swing Tempo vs Golf Swing Speed

Is that your golf swing too fast?

It's not the speed, but the tempo, Golf Swing Speed and Golf Swing Tempo are fundamentally different.

Quite often a golfers swing can appear extremely fast, because they don't have the correct swing tempo. They usually have a very deliberate take away and back swing, where they are trying to 'Place' the club head in the correct position. There may even be a deliberate pause at the top.

About Golf Swing Tempo, that start to talk about components of the swing. Swing plane, take away, ball position, alignment. These are fundamentals and separate parts of the swing. These are the individual parts that you learn, which when combined, give you a complete golf swing.

The Golf swing tempo, is the glue that holds all of these constituent parts together. In fact, the more you swing, with the correct swing tempo, the more stable all of those swing components become.

So what is Swing Speed? Well it's simply the amount of time you take to get from the start of your takeaway to the point of impact. But let's say for simplicity sake, that for you, this takes 4 seconds. If you take 2 seconds getting to the top of your back swing and then 2 seconds getting the club head to the ball, you really are not going to generate any club head speed.

So what is Swing Tempo? Let's take the same 4 second swing,

This time you take 3 Seconds getting to the top, but 1 second on the way down, and what do you have? Well you have a very slow swing, but you have PERFECT Golf Swing Tempo.

Why?
Because all PRO's swing at this exact tempo ratio. 3 To 1. So you can swing as fast as you like. As long as you do it using the 3 to 1 ratio. Now all you have to do is achieve this tempo using one of the many training aids available. Most of which are audio cue devices.
When you do what you will find, is that you will swing faster than you ever have, but with a tempo and a consistency, that is going to stay solid throughout your next round of golf.
When you use one of these aids, your mind tends to focus on waiting for an audio cue, which eliminates those mind games you tend to start playing when you are addressing the ball. You know, the ones that get you all tensed up and anxious, the ones that took away any chance you ever had of a good smooth swing tempo.

Golf - Learn To Play

2010-03-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

Golf - Learn To Play

There are many options available to learn to play golf. You can self teach, have a relative or friend teach you, go to your resident pro at the driving range, take lessons from the golf professional at your country club or pro shop, go to golf-tec at the Golfsmith locations or if your high school or college offers a golf program join the program. The method you choose can greatly affect how quickly you learn and how adept you become at the game. At the time I started playing I opted to teach myself. I read "The Golfers Bible " and "The Five Fundamentals of Golf" by Ben Hogan. The books were both very informative and contained valuable information to help one get started to play. In my opinion, and any one who knows about the history of golf would agree, Ben Hogan was one of the most natural and skilled golfers who ever played the game. I was confident that any book that he authored on golf could only be informative and benefit someone who wanted to learn to play. I can attest first hand that it helped me tremendously.

Depending on one's budget and how quickly someone wants to develop their skills, I would recommend lessons from a teaching professional. Unless you are born with a natural talent for the sport, which from my experience those so gifted are few and far between, lessons are the way to go. As I stated earlier I am self taught and have been playing for about 30 years. The learning curve is different for everyone, but I noted that most golfers who are good at other sports, especially baseball and hockey have a tendency to learn to play well. Having been self taught I had to experiment with different techniques over the years to improve my game. Until today I am still reading up on the latest and greatest on Instruction and Equipment and continuing to experiment to try to play better. With the increased popularity of golf, thanks in most part to the arrival of Tiger Woods on the scene, the teaching techniques and availability of teaching professionals has increased tremendously.

I would strongly recommend that lessons are the way to go. Golf is a sport which requires muscle memory for a repetitive swing. Once your swing techniques and mechanics are ingrained in the subconscious, it will be harder to correct if you do not learn properly at the onset. Having the proper basics is crucial for learning to play the right way. Golf will be so much more enjoyable if you play well and learn the proper techniques for the swing. There are a number of steps to master the correct golf swing and a teaching professional will be able to show each of them to you. You will learn much quicker than reading about them and experimenting for years like I did. Some of the steps are as follows: The Grip - How you set the club in your hands, The Set-Up - (How you address the ball) the positioning of your body and alignment in relation to the ball, The Waggle - This is a trigger or initial movement to allow the swing to start properly, Tempo - The speed and timing from the start of the backswing through the hitting area and the follow thru, Backswing - the move immediately following the waggle -the cocking of the wrist and the turning or coiling of the body together with the arms and shoulders away from the target to prepare for the Downswing, The Downswing - immediately follows the backswing and is the part of the swing where impact with the ball takes place including the pronation of the hands thru the hit, The Follow Thru - the completion of the golf swing which concludes the transfer of your weight from your right side to your left (for right handed golfers - opposite would be true for lefties) and body positioning to face the target.

If any of the aforementioned steps is not executed properly it can greatly affect the result of the shot. With the advent of Video Instruction, the instructor can play back the video and explain and show you exactly what you were doing right or wrong during the course of your swing. You've heard the expression that "One picture is worth a thousand words", well it would most definitely apply in this case. Although you can read a book on golf or watch golf teaching videos ( some are very good), it is still not the same as being taught first hand by a professional.

What You Need To Play

2010-03-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

Golf - What You Need To Play

Beside club purchase, there are additional items necessary to prepare yourself for play. The next most obvious items are a golf bag and golf balls. If you are purchasing a starter set of clubs many come with a golf bag included. If you like to walk and enjoy a little workout as you play there are carry bags, which are light weight and are slung over your shoulders. There are other bag options for you to choose from and I would suggest that you speak to the sales representative in your local pro shop or golf store. Golf balls can also vary dramatically in price - from about $9.99 /dozen to $45.99 for the best balls on the market.

As a beginner I would recommend that you buy the more economically priced balls. The difference in performance will be negligible and you will have a tendency to lose more balls as a novice so why waste money? As you improve, you can always upgrade the type of ball that you use - I would recommend purchasing about two dozen balls to get started. There are also different compression golf balls made. 80, 90 and 100. The compression selected is directly proportionate to how fast you swing and your golf mechanics. I will not elaborate on this right now but an 80 or 90 compression ball should be more than adequate for now. If you have some power and a fairly quick swing, I would opt for the 90 which may give you a bit more distance.
NOTE: The professionals and low handicap players use the higher compression balls because their impact speed and swing mechanics will allow the ball to compress properly, thus attaining the maximum result in distance. Some other equipment I would strongly recommend would be as follows:

A golf towel, golf shoes ( though not absolutely necessary it will assist with stability as you swing), Golf tees ( Note: there are different height golf tees made for different drivers, woods and irons - I would recommend that you pick up an assortment of sizes - 2 1/8" for woods and irons & 2 3/4" or 3 1/4" for Drivers depending on type and size. Check with golf pro or sales person for recommendations if not sure), a golf glove ( not required but it will give you a definite advantage in gripping and holding the club more effectively), ball markers ( used on the green to mark your ball so you will not to block the path of your fellow player - a rule of golf etiquette), and a divot repair tool ( used to repair the indentation made in the green when the golf ball lands - one of the rules of etiquette to be addressed in a future writing ). Although not required to play golf, you may want to consider packing the following ancillary items : Band-aids, sunscreen and insect repellent. You never know when you may need them and it's better to be prepared to allow for maximum comfort while you play. I think we've covered most of the essentials and if you have any questions please feel free to submit them to me. Now you've got the Desire, you've got your equipment, next step is to learn how to play- "The Right Way".

There are a number of different options available to learn how to play golf. You can self teach ( read books and watch instructional videos), ask a relative or friend who knows how to play to teach you, if you are in a high school or college that offers a golf program - enroll in the program, take lessons from the golf pro at your local driving range, take golf lessons from the professional at your local golf course, golf store, private club or pro shop or enroll in a golf school. The method you choose can greatly effect your results so be sure to make the right decision for you.

Golf & Gifts Shopping

2010-03-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

Golf & Gifts Shopping Completed In 10 Minutes

There’s a certain breed amongst us that lives and breathes the game of golf. And a golf & gifts shopping strategy is needed to get them a sporty present for certain occasions like birthdays.

Many of these treasures contain sweet and salty treats to savor. They can be sugar cookies, chocolate golf balls, assorted candies, snack mix, peanuts, biscotti, popcorn, pretzels, crackers … and more. You might even see some beef salami in some of these golf & gifts options.

There are some Golf Gift Baskets that include gourmet coffee. What competitive golfer wouldn’t enjoy a caffeine rush to start the day? Surely this would serve as a weapon in anyone’s arsenal to be alert and on top of his or her game.

Many contain practical golfing items such as ball markers, towels, and practice balls. These can most certainly be put to good use before, during, or after a round of driving, chipping, and putting.

There are also different novelty items particular to golf that may be included. Coffee mugs, note pads, magnets, playing cards and even a Golfers Book of Wisdom may be included. These would certainly cause the receiver to be even more thankful for such a generous gift.

But there’s something that can make the entire gift extra special to be kept as a memento. And that special something is the actual golf & gifts container that all the goodies and items are placed in. Like what?

Some Golf Gift Baskets are reusable cooler golf bag replicas. How unique and classy is that? Some are wire buckets to hold golf balls just like those at a driving range. Wouldn’t that get anyone’s mind immediately to thinking about golf? You might even come across one that’s a classic wooden box that can be kept around the house as a noble decoration.

Sounds like an incredible type of gift to bestow a friend or relative who is hooked on golf. But how does one shop for, purchase, and set up for delivery one of these country club style gifts? The answer to that is as easy as a two inch putt.

Just let technology do the work by going online! Our search engine friends are open 24/7 to help you find a wide variety of Golf Gift Baskets to choose from. And the whole golf & gifts shopping process may only take 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish when you go this route. It’s that simple.

So use this plan to get the absolute best with the least amount of hassle. It’s a game plan that will land you on the green every time!

Golf Ball Speed

2010-03-07T18:32:00.000-08:00

Golf Ball Speed And How It Effects You

Everyone wants to hit the golf ball farther.

The golf instructors understand the relationship between distance and golf ball speed and are turning to launch monitors and other types of golf ball tracking technology. Golf launch monitors can be simple and affordable to very complex and cost thousands of dollars.

Learning about golf ball speed, depending on the launch monitor the club fitter is using they can also learn information about the spin rate of the golf ball, launch angle and carry distance. Doppler radar is used in some of the least expensive units to track the flight of the golf ball.

The Golf ball speed is determined by a simple equation. The easy equation is that your golf ball speed is equal to one and a half times your club head speed. For example if you have a golf swing speed of 100mph then your golf ball speed will be 150mph. Another example would be the television announcers over the weekend said the PGA Tour average club head speed is 112 mph. This equates to 168mph golf ball speed.

What is going on have you lost distance?

Every 25 degree drop in temperature the ball will fly approximately eight yards shorter than before.

With all of the new technology available to the golf world, it has never been a more interesting time to try to improve and learn about your game. A great way to do that is through a golf club fitting with a launch monitor. Since the technology is becoming more affordable, golf players are purchasing a personal launch monitor to help themselves with improving their very own game. You can too!

Golf Business

2010-03-07T18:30:00.000-08:00

Golf Business

Business encourages golf as a natural side for networking and to develop relationships. Corporate America spends billions of dollars and thousands of hours on business golf as it's no.1 pastime today. I've heard about many big business deals done at the golfing range and I don't see that changing anytime soon. It's a sport that's enjoyed all over the world and it's definitely not a cheap sport to get into. You got your clubs and your entry fee which could cost you the amount of a new car depending on where you play. It's not a sport for the poor and that is probably the appeal for business men or women because one must be serious about the game if they want to get anywhere.

Be on your best behavior when playing with a client. Business golf can be a very lucrative initiative for companies today, but it can also wreck a big deal if not handled properly. Your attitude on the golf course and your reaction to how you are playing may cause a client to lose respect for you, and that may keep you from closing a deal.
Don’t force the business discussion. You don’t want to start talking shop before you tee off the first hole. Take some time to get to know your client, enjoy being on the golf course and discuss topics aside from business. There is a general rule that it is safe to talk about business between the fifth and 15th holes.

The most important thing to realize is that people will remember how enjoyable it was to play golf with you; no one will remember what score you shot.

Golf Guide For Beginners

2010-03-07T18:28:00.000-08:00

Golf Guide For Beginners - Tips And Info

In my opinion there are three things necessary to get started playing golf properly. Beside a desire to learn, the first and most obvious of the three is you need golf equipment, secondly, you have to have some basic knowledge of how to swing a golf club and the basic rules of the game, and last but certainly not least is learning "Golf Etiquette". As you will note I will keep emphasizing the "Etiquette" part of golf and as you become a more experienced player you it will become clear to you why.

Since the first item I noted as a requirement to play was Equipment, some recommendations I would make to acquire equipment are as follows: Golf equipment can be very pricey so it is important to know the type of equipment that is right for you before you make any substantial investments.

My recommendation for someone starting out is to buy a used set of clubs, either at a golf store or garage sale, borrow a set from a relative or friend, or purchase a starter set form your local golf or sporting goods store ie; Dick's Sporting Goods, Golfsmith, Modells, Walmart, etc.. If you decide to purchase a new starter set or a used set of clubs you should ask to speak to the resident golf professional ( Dick's or Golfsmith would offer this service). He should be able to recommend equipment that will allow you to get started without spending an exhorbitant amount of money. It will also give you a chance to experience the game and determine whether it is right for you.

As much as I love golf there are people who have no interest or desire to play. In conversation with them I usually find that either they have tried it, found it too difficult and gave up, or they were into other hobbies such as fishing, boating and did not think golf was an athletic enough sport for them. I'm assuming that if you're reading this that you want to learn to play golf. One of the topics of a subsequent writing will be how to LEARN TO PLAY the right way. It you want to give yourself a fair chance to see if you really enjoy the game you have to learn properly. Golf is not as easy as it looks and since we can't all be Tiger Woods, us mere mortals have to work a little harder at it if we want to learn to play well. Forgive my digression, but I will do that from time to time to emphasize a point. The next writing will be about learning how to play, so back to equipment.

The beginning golfer does not need to carry 14 clubs ( the approved amount of clubs allowed to be carried under USGA - United States Golf Association rules). When I first started playing I had a golf bag I borrowed, A driver, 3 wood, 5 wood, 5 iron, 7 iron, 9 iron, sand wedge and a putter and it was more than enough clubs to play. The different numbered clubs are used for different distances.

For example, the Driver is the least lofted club, which means you can achieve the most distance utilizing this club.The subsequent clubs noted, 3 wood, 5 wood, 5, 7 & 9 irons and sand wedge all have increasing angles of loft respectively, so as the number increases on the club the resulting distance will decrease accordingly. Each number will progressively represents about a 10 to 20 yard variance depending on one's ability and if you are using a wood or an iron. As you begin to play you will learn more about when and why you use the different clubs but the important thing is to get started. Grab your clubs and get ready to learn to play"The Right Way".

Golf In South Africa

2010-03-07T18:25:00.000-08:00

Golf In South Africa

South Africa golfing has seen huge growth since the 1980s when our courses compared dismally with those of international standards in the rest of the world. Following negative feedback from local golfers who traveled abroad and reported back on the high quality of courses in other countries, local courses started major overhauling of the greens and facilities, and the effect snowballed as other courses followed suit.

The results have been spectacular. Today South Africa stands proudly alongside the world’s finest golfing destinations with numerous courses on offer, many of them of the highest international standard.

South Africa has hosted many international golf championships. Our own top golfers Gary Player, Retief Goosen and Ernie Els have played on South African greens alongside Tiger Woods and other living golfing legends, as well as celebrities like Jodie Kidd. In fact, South Africa has fast become the most successful golfing nation per capita on the professional circuit!

The Presidents Cup, the Million Dollar Ned bank Golf Challenge, the Sunshine Tour and the South African Open are just some of the golf events that are regularly held in South Africa.

However South Africa is not just a golfing destination for professionals – far from it. For the holiday maker who likes to include golf on his itinerary, South Africa offers an extensive selection of great courses all around the country. Whether you’re vacationing in beautiful Cape Town, balmy Durban, vibey Jo’burg or even on safari in Kruger you’re never far from an excellent South African golf course.

The Cape Town golf courses boast views of beaches, mountains and the oceans – making full use of the stunning natural environment as a backdrop to a great game of golf.

Heading out to the Cape Wine lands? More breathtaking surroundings make the wine route golf courses equally impressive – and what better way to end a round than tasting some of the best wines in the world? Talk about a classy 19th hole!

Combine a day of whale watching (in season) at Hermanus with a visit to the 6 star Arabella golf course near Hermanus. The whale route is loved by nature and golf lovers as well as those wishing to experience more dangerous adventures like shark cage diving and paragliding.

A drive up the Garden Route along the scenic coastline from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth is another popular tourist experience. With its perennially green location it is a great location for golf courses, and there certainly are plenty of them here! They are most cleverly set out to blend with the natural geographic surroundings.

The Eastern Cape with its strong gusty winds makes golfing extra challenging! The scenic backdrop to the different East Coast golf courses varies from evergreen forests to arid Karoo plains, while eternal beaches and unspoiled vegetation abound.

From the south to the north coast, Durban is offers relaxation with a cosmopolitan buzz. The Durban south coast is known as the Golf Coast with its comprehensive selection of beautiful yet challenging golf courses. Durban itself is balmy year round, with a sub-topical climate and great golfing weather throughout the year.

Johannesburg boasts some particularly fine golf courses and it is unsurprising that some of these have hosted European PGA Tours and South African Sunshine Tour events.

The Johannesburg climate is well-suited to golfing and the area offers a great number of excellent golf courses

When holidaying in South Africa’s premier holiday resort, Sun City, you’ll have a host of activities including golf available to you.

Here you will discover The Gary Player Golf Course, where the Nedbank Million Dollar Golf Challenge is hosted, as well as the Lost City Golf Course complete with crocodiles at the 13th hole!

One of the most memorable experiences of a golfing enthusiast’s life must surely be the opportunity to play golf while elephants, giraffe and other African game wander by.

At the golf courses around the Kruger Park this is exactly what you can expect! This is a great location for golfing in the winter months which are cooler and dryer.

So welcome to South Africa, golfers! We know you’ll find everything in place to make your holiday or business trip a sun-filled, golf-filled experience that will surpass your highest expectations!

Golf Instruction On A Budget

2010-03-07T18:22:00.000-08:00

Golf Instruction On A Budget

It must be nice to drive around in a little golf cart and play the perfect game on a perfect green. Golfers everywhere are envying you as we speak. What's that? You aren't driving around in a cute little cart or playing a perfect game? And no one is envious of your supremely skilled game? One would assume that means Tiger Woods isn't on hold on line 2 then. Odds are good that Tiger is never going to be eagerly awaiting your call, but that doesn't mean that with effective golf instruction you can't be the envy of the green.

Let's face it; most of us can't afford private lessons with a pro or even with the local country club's golf instructor. Knowing where to look and what to look for go a long way in finding help with golf instruction however. It doesn't matter if you play on the finest golf courses in the world or join up with your buddies occasionally for a round on the local public course. In this era of high speed information the tips, hints, and techniques used by golf pros can be at your fingertips.

Finding advice on golf instruction is simple really. Books and magazines are printed by the hundreds on this very subject. Either one would be an excellent addition to your birthday or Christmas wish list. It is a good bet that your significant other would be delighted with an original gift idea and at the same time give themselves the gift of not hearing you lament your golf game anymore.
Check out the library for a selection of books that highlight every different aspect of the game of golf. This technique will save you bundles on your bill at the local bookstore. Another way the library can be useful in finding golf instruction is in their DVD department. Check out the ones that seem interesting. The DVDs you find especially helpful can always be purchased later. When your golf skills dramatically improve all your friends will think you spent a mint on private lessons. They'll be so jealous.

While talking about acquiring golf instruction on a budget, don't underestimate the usefulness of friends and family. If golf is a family passion, maybe Mom or Dad has some helpful hints that you overlooked. And the friend you are always trying to impress with your game may be the perfect instructor. You can always sway him by stating the obvious, if he helps you, just maybe he will at least have a little competition the next time the two of you hit the greens together. That should be enough to encourage some cooperation.

The information highway is the place to go for information on all kinds of subjects. You already pay for your Internet connection, make it earn its keep. There are countless websites and forums dedicated to the game of golf and many of them offer tips on a wide variety of golfing issues. For example, you can learn the best clubs to use for each shot and how to factor weather conditions into your game. This is seriously some useful golf instruction. Your budget will love you because you are using a resource that is already paid for.

When most people think about golf instruction it is rarely associated with inexpensive. Considering that golf course time, the equipment, and golfing extras tend to cost so much, budget golf instruction is the way to go. Who knows? Before long maybe Tiger will be calling, or maybe not. Either way you will be playing better and the kids can still go to college.

The Role of the Golf Stand Bag

2010-03-07T18:19:00.000-08:00

Golf Stand Bag - The Role of the Golf Stand Bag

The golf stand bag or a carry bag is just one product introduction relating to golf that has revolutionized the game of golf all together.

When more people are attracted to any sport, like golf, especially youngsters, the level of variety required in its accessories also need to have redefinition its style and fashion which is provided by a golf stand bag. Also, the quality of accessories must be made outstanding so that each player gets a better result while using them. One special feature of golf is that a player does not need much physical involvement to play this game. One of the major inputs from a player is his positive mind set which will directly influence his determination. And another factor would be the power of vision a player has.

The Accessories play a significant role in terms of support to a golf player. There are wide varieties of accessories available in our market. But you must make sure that you choose the one among the best. One of an important accessory in regards to golf is the golf bag. Stand golf bags are very essential in one player’s net result. It might not have any direct affect on player or his game result, but it definitely influences upon the player’s mind set and attitude as well. Golf stand bags are very helpful during the play when a player use to walk a long through the big golf grounds.

A golf stand bag needs a special attention during your accessories purchase. Keeping certain factors in mind while buying a carry bag will always give you a better result. Some of the factors like the type and quality of the material the walking bag is made of, the space availability of its inside so that it can accommodate some additional stuff like towels or so and the type and size of the bag to make sure it can be carried along easily. Straps of bags needs to be checked and made sure that it will support a reasonable amount of weight while carrying it. Only a light weight carry bag can give better results comparing to a heavy weighted ones.

How to Learn to Play Golf

2010-02-16T17:18:00.000-08:00

How to Learn to Play Golf

Beginner Golf Tips

When you are starting to play the great game of golf, They will become David Leadbetter or Butch Harmon in their own mind of all places right there on the golf course.

You will quickly learn that there is a time and a place to work on your game. The golf course is where you should play and not practice. Work through all of your beginner golf tips while you are practicing on the driving range, short game area or practice putting green.

So with everyone throwing all of these free beginner golf tips at you, how do you know what to trust? Well, Through golf books, golf DVDs and local golf instruction, there are many credible and qualified sources for you to tap.

The Beginner golf tips: Short Game

The Opposed to popular belief and actions, if you want to learn how to play the game of golf or if you have played for a long time and want to lower your handicap, learn how to chip and putt. It may not seem as macho or as sexy to learn all of these little short shots as opposed to standing on the driving range banging out long shots.
No matter what your current handicap is, if you want to lower your golf scores learn all aspects of the short game. This will drop your scores faster than standing on a driving range for a long period of time week after week.

The question that may put how important the short game is and can help put it into perspective for you. Once your round is finished, do you want to give your buddy a hard time about the one drive you hit past him/her or do you want to brag about the lower score that you shot? Speaking from experience, the ribbing about how your buddy hit one past you is pretty short-lived as he is paying you for winning the bet of lowest score.

One last thought about the short game for you is to make sure you arrive early enough to spend some time on the putting green putting and chipping before your round. You do not need to spend thirty minutes there. You just need to hit enough putts and chip shots to get a good feeling going prior to your round.

Just Have fun

Unfortunately, most people will tell you that they play the game for fun or to relax but their actions simply do not say the same thing. Especially while you are learning the game, you should set little goals for your rounds or practice time. Sometimes they are not even to do anything with golf.

Ping American College Golf Guide

2010-02-16T17:09:00.000-08:00

Ping American College Golf Guide

The Ping American College Guide
Since 1989, almost 90% of the college golf scholarships nationwide have gone to readers of the PING Guide including young PGA and LPGA Tour players Tiger Woods, Justin Leonard, Charles Howell, Heath Slocum, Ben Crane, Hunter Mahan, Ben Curtis, Zach Johnson, Bubba Watson, Arron Oberholser, Kevin Stadler, Bill Haas, Nick Watney, Ryan Moore, J. B. Holmes, Stacy Prammanasudh, Lorena Ochoa, Natalie Gulbis and Stacy Lewis. Other PING Guide readers turned professional instead of playing college include Paula Creamer, Morgan Pressel and Michele Wie.

The PING Guide contains vital help for junior golfers who want to continue their golf career at the collegiate level. It includes information on every scholarship and non-scholarship golf program in the U.S. (more than 1,200 colleges and community colleges), and it answers the questions facing college-bound students on subjects including:
= taking advantage of the numerous opportunities for both men and women to play college golf.
= understanding recruiting guidelines, entrance and eligibility requirements, letters of intent and scholarships.
= learning about new NCAA regulations and their effect on prospective and current student -athletes.
= planning your high school career to ensure adequate preparation for college testing, counseling and timely application.
= matching yourself athletically and academically to one or more schools.
= maximizing your exposure to college coaches.
= preparing your golf resume and promoting yourself if you are not recruited.
= handling interviews and meetings with coaches.
= knowing the importance of the campus visit.
= qualifying for financial aid.
= preparing to enjoy your college golf experience no matter what level of competition you seek.

The talent levels among college golfers span the spectrum.
The best players frequently post sub-par rounds; however, there are thousands of men playing on college golf teams whose average score is in the 80s or higher and thousands of women playing college golf who shoot in the 90s or 100s.

Golf Short Game

2010-02-16T05:17:00.000-08:00

Golf Short Game – How To Master It

If you really want to improve your Golf short game, which is anything within 100 yards of the flag, then first you need the right equipment in the bag to do so.

So do you have the clubs in your bag to cover 70% of your shots? My guess is….Probably Not! Most beginners and high handicappers only carry one wedge. Consequently, they try to hit anywhere between 10 and 100 Yards with the same club.
This makes accurate distance control, on every short shot, virtually impossible.
If you’re such a golfer, then it really is time to consider adding one, or two more wedges to your bag. If this means the sacrifice of one of your long irons, in order to confirm to the 14 club rule, then so be it.
After all, how often or how well do you use that 3 iron anyway? With various wedge lofts available, (anywhere from 52 to 64 degrees), from all of the major manufacturers. Consider three wedges with a four degree separation, i.e. 52, 56 and 60 degrees of loft.

Now… Armed with your 3 wedges. You’ll need to get down to your local park and practice. How much should you practice? Well, doesn’t it make sense that if 70% of your shots are going to be golf short game shots, then 70% of the amount of time that you spend practicing, should be specifically on this type of shot? Yet I find that very few golfers do. Instead they’d rather beat balls at the driving range, often with no specific target, or goal in mind.

Get to the park this weekend. Take a 100 Yard tape measure, and spend some time getting comfortable with your new wedges. Hit nice easy (80%) swings with all three of your wedges. Hit 20 Balls with each wedge. Discount the furthest and shortest five balls.
The center measurement of your cluster of ten balls is your average for that wedge. Write it down and put it in your bag.
Try and do this once a week and you’ll soon find that your grouping will get tighter, and more consistent. Not only that, but on the course, your golf short game will soon be the envy of your golf buddies.

South Carolina Golf Club Community

2010-02-16T05:12:00.000-08:00

Free Way Of Living In A South Carolina Golf Club Community

With South Carolina’s weather conditions, living in a golf community is definitely worth it because it’s possible to play nearly year round.

The number one course in Zagat’s America’s Top Golf Courses of 2007-2008 is the Ocean Course in Kiawah Island, just 20 minutes from Charleston. Besides four thousand five hundred houses on ten thousand acres, there are 5 golf courses of world-class standards. The Ocean Club will host the 2012 PGA championships. Owning real estate here provides you access to 28 tennis courts both inside and outside, several clubhouses for formal or relaxed dining, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, a twenty one acre park, 10 miles of beach and running and cycle trails for 30 miles, and a chance to catch crabs, fish and shrimp. And a few of the home sites have deepwater docks. There is a shopping village that has a supermarket, eating establishments and all the beauty and nature to create one of the best places for retired people or relocation.

About 30 minutes north of Columbia, South Carolina is Cobblestone Park. The community’s 36-hole golf course was planned by Lee Jansen and is private. The 750 acre community is enclosed with mobile security and neighboring areas that don’t require maintenance. Apart from the beautiful homes starting around $500K is a clubhouse, service workers, a resort style pool, 2 cafeterias and a gym. You could have fun on the basketball court and sports field or the six court tennis facility complete with a stadium style court.

Aiken, South Carolina is normally known for its equestrian heritage, and if you live at Mount Vintage you’ll have numerous opportunities to ride. But, its Tom Jackson’s twenty seven hole golf course and practice facility on a five thousand acre plot you really must see.
The clubhouse is a refurbished heritage plantation house having a grill, cafeteria and a watering hole. There are cycling, horseback riding and walking trails and sidewalks, a spa, 6 Har-Tru tennis courts, a pool and a gym. Mount Vintage promotes a community feeling with pot-luck dinners, clubs, a town center with a general store, lending library and a salon.

Down the coast is Sea Pines, which has a reciprocal arrangement with Kiawah Island. Situated on Hilton Head Island, Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, George Cobb, and Arnold Palmer designed the 4 eighteen-hole courses. Zagat’s list of America’s Top Golf Courses had The Harbour Town course as the fourth best in South Carolina. There are 23 tennis courts, a 605 acre nature preserve with bike and riding trails; cards, crafts, book clubs and antiques. There are also two marinas with storage, fishing, crabbing, resort style conveniences with cafeterias, swimming pools, a gym, a community garden, horses, a Beach Club, commercial and retail space, and eco-tours on kayaks.

The more serene DeBordieu Colony is an enclosed golf club community located beyond Georgetown and Pawley’s Island approximately 45 miles from Charleston, and 40 miles from Myrtle Beach. Comprising two thousand seven hundred acres, there are one thousand two hundred and fifty house sites, with 700 acres as a nature preserve. The reserved golf course is a Pete Dye designed 18 hole classic. The Georgian-designed clubhouse is huge, with 2 kinds of dining choices and a bar, a swimming pool, tennis courts a ten acre beach club, 24/7 mobile security patrols, a boat landing and docks for fishing.

C.O.G. Golf Swing

2010-02-16T05:05:00.000-08:00

The C.O.G. Golf Swing

Where do you Start?

Let’s start with equipment. I’m not going to get into your set make up or equipment brand, we can talk about that later, what I’m interested in at the moment, are your grips.

I don’t care how good your equipment is, or how much it cost…if your grips are not in good shape, I, (or any Pro for that matter) cannot properly teach you how to swing a golf club.

Almost everyone I come in contact with on the range or at the club takes pretty good care of his or her golf clubs, with the exception of the grips.

The only contact you have with the golf ball is directly through the grips of your golf clubs, you have to take care of them.

A Professional golfer has their grips cleaned after practice sessions, before a round, during a round, and has them changed regularly.

Have you cleaned your grips yet? Your grips should feel slightly tacky in your hands so you don’t have to squeeze your golf club, which robs you of the ability to swing the golf club with any speed or consistency.

Most grips today are still made out of rubber or a rubber compound that can be kept in “like new” condition simply with hot soapy water.

When you play golf or practice, the dust, dirt, and oil from your hands gets ground into the pores of the rubber, clogging them up and making your grips slick and hard. Washing your grips will clean out the pores making your grips feel tacky again and ready for your next round.

If your grips have been neglected for a while, try a window cleaner solution on them, this will cut through the oils and dirt and should bring even a neglected grip back to life. If they have been badly neglected and you can’t get them back to a “tacky” state, have them replaced at your local Pro-Shop.

The good news is they’re very inexpensive, starting at around $2.00, and while you’re there you can have them sized to fit your hand perfectly.

This will help immensely when you learn to swing the golf club using the C.O.G. effortless power method. OK, now that you’ve got your grips cleaned and looked after, keep them that way, like I said earlier, every Professional golfer has new grips or has their grips cleaned before every round.

If you have a high tech grip material and you’re not sure what to clean them with, simply contact the manufacturer and ask, they will last longer and perform much better. Notice at the top and the bottom of your grip. There is a small hash mark that indicates the center mark of your shaft, these are very important marks, take notice of them now, and we’ll talk more about them later. Now that we have that looked after, we can talk about the BOSS of the golf club.

The BOSS:

Your target side hand, (the one with the glove) is the Boss of the golf club, that’s why we wear the glove on that hand. On the target hand, (the left hand for right handed golfers) the top three fingers assume control of the golf club. This is the Pinky, the Ring, and the Middle finger, (2) leaving the index finger and thumb to rest lightly on the grip. When these three fingers are in control of the golf club, you will be able to swing the club at a high speed with very little effort and fire your “Piston” *(release the club head), however, if your trail hand (right hand for right hand golfers) gets involved, it will slow down the swinging process and turn the action into a “hit”. Work on keeping the target hand the BOSS of the club, this will help prevent two other common problems,

1)The hole in the glove…

2)The “fat” shot…

Hole in your glove?

1)If you are the golfer that always has a hole in the heel of your golf glove, not only am I going to save you $50 to $100 dollars in golf gloves this year alone, but also should save you a quite a few strokes as well. The hole in your golf glove comes from the BOSS fingers giving up control of the golf club. When you take your back swing, if at the top of your swing, the BOSS fingers have let go, creating a gap between your fingers and the heel of your hand; the hole in the glove is soon to follow.

= Piston refers to the action of releasing the club head.

Why does this happen?

head of a swinging golf club weighs about a pound for every mile per hour it moves through centrifugal force. A typical golf professional moves the club head from the address position to the top of the backswing in approximately 1 second.
At the point of transition to the down swing, the club head weighs about 14 pounds. That’s the equivalent of a 14-pound weight being held by the top 3 fingers of the target (gloved) hand. Most people can hold this weight OK but if the club travels to the top of the swing faster than that, the transition weight of the club head becomes heavier and the separation of the top 3 fingers (or the GAP) occurs. When the (GAP) happens, you transfer control of the club head to the Trail hand (right hand) and the butt end of the grip rubs or tears the leather of the glove on the transition to the downswing.
his all happens very quickly and is hard to catch if you don’t know what to look for or what is actually happening. The dreaded hole in the glove is NOT a normal occurrence in golf; it is the product of a change of control of the golf club from your target hand, to your trail hand during the course of transition from the top of your back swing to the beginning of your down swing. This action can and even MUST be controlled if you are to learn to swing a golf club like you see your favorite Professional swing it every day. We’ll discuss how to control this little later on in the book when we set up the easy 3-piece golf swing and discover that 1-move can solve 4 problems we have in the backswing alone and set us up for consistency and power in our swing towards the target.

2.) The other benefit of learning to control your golf club with the top 3 fingers of the BOSS hand at the transition point to the downswing is controlling the “FAT” shot. The fat shot is the one where you stick the club head into the ground before it touches the golf ball, sending it trickling mere feet from where you’re standing. The fat shot is a totally wasted stroke as little or no ground is covered and we have to hit the same shot over again.
At the transition point of your golf swing when the club changes direction back to the ball, if your BOSS hand loses control of the golf club, the weight of the club head rests on the trigger finger (index finger) of your Trail hand (right hand) and that hand becomes the BOSS of the golf club at that moment.
Once the trail hand becomes the BOSS of the golf club, the down swing motion becomes too steep and your trail hand throws the club head into the ground behind the ball. If this is the case, you may have noticed your ball position creeping back in your stance and your shots traveling too low and too far for the club you’re using at the moment.
This is a side effect of a weak BOSS hand; you have to change the geometry of your golf swing in order to make contact with the ball. When this condition develops, all kinds of mistakes can happen as you try to judge where the bottom of your swing is going to happen. Always remember, when your target side hand (the one with the glove) is the BOSS of the golf club, the bottom of your golf swing will always be on your Center of Gravity (shirt-button) so you can predict proper ball position, trajectory, and distance control of each club in your bag, and eliminate the dreaded FAT shot.

Golf Stand Bags

2010-02-16T05:03:00.000-08:00

Golf Stand Bags - 5 Questions to Have Answered Before You Buy

There are many different golf stand bags on the market let alone the availability of all types of golf bags. Though all of us would like to find cheap golf stand bags, I am not sure that we are ready to put up with the lack of quality or durability that we are looking for in a bag.

What are you looking for in a golf bag? If you walk any rounds of golf at all then you will need to own what is called golf stand bags or golf carry bags. A cart bag is way too heavy to carry around the course and enjoy your round.

What else are you going to need to know before you can make the decision on which of the golf stand bags will be your new purchase? Below are five questions that will help you through all of the different types of golf stand bags and make sure that you select the best golf bag for you.

What is my price range?

This may sound like a simple question but it is one that needs to be asked before looking at golf stand bags. Within reason, you will get what you pay for. This does not mean that the mid-priced stand bags are not as good as the most expensive golf bags. However, there is a big jump from the cheapest bags to the mid level bags.

How much are you going to play?

If you do not play much, you may want to go with a cheaper bag. Since you will not be using it as much, it will not need to be as durable over the long haul as for someone that plays multiple times in a week.

Other than golf clubs, how much equipment do you usually carry?

This would include a rain suit, umbrella, extra gloves, extra balls, hats, teaching aids, snacks and maybe even medicine. You need to keep in mind that every extra thing that you take will equate to extra weight that you will be carrying out on the golf course.

Does it have all of the features I need?

This is where the question of how many pockets and where they are located becomes important. You can now buy a ladies golf bag with up to nine pockets on it. Can you fit a jacket into the bag in case you get cold or it begins to rain? Do you need a pocket for a water bottle and do you really need it?

Is it the right color for you?

No I am not talking about does it match your skin color but do you like the color scheme of the bag? With the golf stand carry bags being built as unisex bags sometimes the only thing that will make it a ladies golf bag or a men's golf bag is the color scheme. Many ladies like a pink golf bag to show their feminine side.

Answering these 5 questions before you start searching through the many new golf stand carry bags will help you make a better decision on the golf bag that is right for you and will help you enjoy the game.

Golf Travel Bags

2010-02-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

Golf Travel Bags & How to Pick the Best One

Whether you are a professional or an amateur golfer, golf travel bags are a must for any golfer who travels to play golf on business or vacation. If you are anything like me when it comes to packing for a trip, I want to take as little as possible. I end up packing some of my stuff in my golf travel bag along with my golf bag and golf clubs.

As you are looking to purchase a golf travel bag you will want to debate which of the following features are important to you and which features that you will need as opposed to features that you want:

Storage Size

Face it, though we all would like to live out of a golf travel bag, most of the time the bag will be in storage somewhere in the house or the hotel room while on your trip. How small does it fold up becomes a legitimate question especially on your trip. Obviously, this question is already answered, if you purchase a hard golf case as it will not give.

TSA Approved

If you fly to your golf destinations you will want to make sure that you purchase a TSA Approved Travel Bag. As the airlines are restricting the types of bags they carry as well as the overall weight of a bag, owning a TSA Approved golf travel bag can ease many of your headaches. Many times, manufacturers will offer a TSA Approved lock for your bag. This will keep you from needing to purchase a new lock if the TSA decides they need to search the bag.

Wheels

Some people will think that this is a given but some golf travel covers today are still made without wheels. All you have to do is lug a golf travel bag through any major airport one time and you will be ready to purchase a unit with wheels. It makes maneuvering through the airport much easier and much less stressful.

Colors

The colors available are absolutely endless. You can purchase a black, green, pink or navy golf travel bag. You can pick your favorite colors or even pick your favorite college teams colors in order to show your school spirit. Many manufacturers will also allow embroidery on the bag. You can create a personalized golf travel bag by having your name, company logo or again your favorite college teams logo embroidered on the side of the bag.

Pockets
These can be on the outside or on the inside of the bag. Many bags will have pockets on the inside in order to carry your shoes on the trip. Other interior pockets can be used to store extra clothes for your trip if you are going to be in multiple climates while on your trip.

As you are shopping for your travel golf bag, you will need to compare the amenities that you need as opposed to what you want. Then comparison shop as you would for any other item to find yourself the best deal. Once you are done with this then you will be ready to plan a golf vacation.

Golf Practice Nets

2010-02-16T04:58:00.000-08:00

Golf Practice Nets
Three Good Options

Set up your own driving range right at your house with a golf practice net that will allow you to work on your golf game without going to the driving range. Today, there are many options of portable golf nets that you can use at your home and we will give you information on three nets from Izzo.

The Big Mouth by Izzo

Utilizing a fiberglass hoop frame, the Big Mouth golf practice net from Izzo eliminates the hassle of setting up frame poles and clipping net hangers. Simply toss The big Mouth golf practice net where you want it and the net will automatically spring to life. From there, it is up to you on how fast you can place a tee in the ground and start practicing.

Closed, the Big Mouth is a thirty-six inch flat disk that only weighs about fifteen pounds and stores practically anywhere. The Big Mouth expands from a three-foot disk to a seven by nine foot golf net what will feel faster than you can get away the first few times.

Another feature of the Big Mouth is the introduction of woven netting. This "knotless" technology allows the mesh to stretch and absorb the ball's force resulting in a net that is thirty percent stronger. In addition you will have an adjustable chipping net that hangs in the middle of the Big Mouth's frame. The chipping net is suspended on four sides by adjustable chords which allow you to set the position of the chipping net to work on high lob shots or low bump and run shots.

The Super Cage Mouth Net

The Super Cage Mouth Net is a premium practice net and will allow you to improve your golf game at home or take it to your in-laws to give you something to do while you are there! The Super Cage Mouth Net has a patented pop-up design from Izzo and is a premium practice net made of high durability nylon. It easily folds flat to 46-inches and can be used indoors or outside. Folding flat, The Super Cage Mouth Net can be stored easily when you are not using it as it. The Super Cage Mouth Net has a 10' x 12' Hitting Area.

The Izzo Golf Giant Mouth Net

The unique shape of the Izzo Golf Giant Mouth Net allows you to hit all of the clubs in your bag. Whether you need to work on your Driver, Fairway woods, Irons or Wedges, the Izzo Golf Giant Mouth Net has the room to allow you to work on any golf club in your golf bag. The Giant golf net is the perfect way to practice your swing without going to the range.

The premium mesh netting is engineered and tested to be the strongest in golf. This golf net comes with a nylon storage case that travels easily wherever you want to take it. Do not mess with confusing complicated driving nets, the Giant is quick and easy to setup as well as to take down.

Beginners Guide To Golf

2010-02-16T04:56:00.000-08:00

Beginners Guide To Golf
Your First Set Of Golf Clubs

The golf clubs are expensive items yet are essential when is comes to playing the game of golf. The most important tip I was given was that when first starting out was never buy a new set of clubs. Once you are sure you enjoy the game enough to take it seriously then and only then should you contemplate new clubs.

When you are starting out there is so much to consider and learn. Golf is a difficult sport and you may decide it is not for you. Once you have got past the initial learning stage you will want to choose clubs that fit you and suit your golfing style. The best way to start is to begin your golfing career with cheap used clubs.

So you have decided you want to play golf and you don't want the expense of new clubs but where are you going to find these cheaper alternatives the following are some excellent suggestions:

" Golf rental clubs - Most golf clubs have sets of clubs that can be rented these are predominantly for visitors who have not been able to bring their own but can also be hired by beginners. Whilst playing with others or on the driving range ask your friends if you can try their clubs this will provide you with an opportunity to find which clubs suit you.

" Ask the resident expert - Most golf clubs have a golf shop with a resident expert, they will be able to advise you where to start and may also have some previously owned clubs that have been traded in by members upgrading. Some clubs also offer a service to their members where they will offer to sell their unwanted golfing goods.

You should always consult people who know golf equipment well as they will be able to offer you the best suggestions for clubs etc to suit your style and ability

" Car Boot Sales And Internet Auctions - These are fantastic places for picking up bargains to try. You can buy individual clubs or whole sets. It is a great way to try different clubs without spending a fortune and is the club is not for you then you can resell it on e-bay! The downside is that you are unable to try before you buy but if you have done some research beforehand you will have a fair idea what it is you are looking for.

You may find that your second hand clubs are a little worn this shouldn't be a problem as it is quite inexpensive to replace grips and a little 'spit & polish' goes a long way. Try to pick clubs that are in good condition but be realistic in the fact that all clubs need maintenance at some point

Remember the best way to choose a used club is to actually hold it in your hand and attempt to play the shot they were meant for this will give you the chance to see how they 'feel'. The feel of a golf club is important as if you feel comfortable with the club the more likely you are to be successful with it. Confidence is a big factor when playing golf.

Golf Franchise Industry

2010-02-16T04:53:00.000-08:00

Understanding The Golf Franchise Industry

The golf franchise industry has seen an explosion in new and exciting concepts over the past 5 years. With an aging population and many people wanting to get out of corporate America, take control of their schedule, take control of their earning potential and start a new career, golf franchising is answering the call.
Many of these new golf franchise systems are following the roots of franchising and offering food related systems. For those who do not want to be stuck in a kitchen or restaurant during their golden years, there are many franchise systems that outdoors and based on activities that have a broad appeal. The game of golf is no exception to this growth.

Traditionally golf franchise systems have been concerned with the sale of equipment through retail stores. Long hours, high investment and over head were just some of the reasons people did not want to get involved in a golf business. Most golf business occurs on the weekends and during holidays. Spending your golden years working 12 hour days behind a counter over the weekend does not sound very golden, does it?

What if there was another opportunity that would get you outside, still be involved in golf, give you control over your schedule and not leave you income up to the latest big bertha club that was created? Synthetic turf products have come a long way over the years and one company IntelliTurf, Inc. actually installs golf greens that hold shots from 180 yards away and play just like natural grass.

IntelliTurf’s franchisees are sales and marketing professionals that love golf. They are people who are looking to build a business with a golf career, not buy a job. Golfers who would like to build equity in a business related to their passion. After training they become golf designers of backyard putting greens and consultants for all types of properties from multi-housing developments to some of the nicest residences in their protected territories.

This golf business franchise opportunity calls for the marketing, sales, design and installation of putting greens, short game practice areas, and actual golf courses. IntelliTurf’s artificial greens are actually golf greens, not just for putting. They hold shots from 180 yards away and the pace of the greens can be altered to match the greens in the area.

As the owner of this golf business the franchisee can set their own hours, price jobs as they see fit which gives them control of their profit margin and design beautiful amenities that add value to their client’s property. This is a good opportunity for an entrepreneur.

While IntelliTurf is primarily focused on golf surfaces, other products are offer for many applications and properties. Artificial turf is installed as lawns for private residences and on public and commercial land. Play areas provide up to 4 inches of cushion for playgrounds at schools, churches, parks and neighborhood amenity areas.

IntelliTurf offers a golf franchise business opportunity but also includes many other applications that golfers and business professionals will enjoy representing.

Golf Swing Set Up

2010-02-16T04:46:00.000-08:00

The Golf Swing :

The Set Up

To quote a line from Ed Norton, “Step up, plant your feet firmly, and address the ball- Hello Ball” For all of you Honeymooner fans out there, I’m sure you will recall that this was Eds’ direction to Ralph in the famous Honeymooner Golf Episode, which is one of my all time favorites. In order to prepare for the golf swing, the set up is where you will step up to the ball, place your feet in position and address the ball, so Ed was pretty accurate in his direction to Ralph, except of course for the Hello Ball part.

After the ball is set on the tee, step back and “Relax”. The next step is to position your body in relation to the ball. The proper alignment to the target is key to accuracy in the set up.
You should choose an intermediate target directly in front of you and in line with the golf ball and your intended landing area. Once you have selected your spot the next step is to take your stance parallel to that line.
Note: To practice aligning correctly to the target two clubs can be placed on the ground - One will be placed adjacent the golf ball and will be pointing directly in line with the ball, your intermediate spot and the landing or target area. The other will be placed in parallel to the first but at the area where your feet will be placed. Once you practice for a while utilizing this method you should acquire a feel for the correct alignment technique.
(Note: The set up can be performed with the feet and body positioned open or closed, in other words, out of alignment to the target line which will allow the golfer to work the ball left or right depending on the set up of the golf hole. This is done deliberately to promote the left to right or right to left ball movement. It is also a technique employed by the more experienced player and is not recommended for the beginning golfer). After you have established your line, the next step is the placement of your feet. When I take my stance, I like to place my right foot almost perpindicular or turned slightly to the right of perpindicular to target line and my left foot is angled about 45 degrees left of a perpindicular line toward the target Note: the information provided is meant for the right handed golfer and should be reversed for those left handed.
The distance between my feet is approximately shoulder width, especially for the driver. This allows for stability in the stance, which is important in maintaining good balance thru out the swing. As you take your stance the knees should be bent slightly and the upper body should be tilted forward a bit at the waist.
The head should be kept upright so the chin does not impede the backswing and shoulder turn, which will be addressed in the next step. As the body tilts slightly forward at the waist and you have taken your grip, make sure you allow your hands to fall in a relaxed position almost directly below your line of sight if you looked straight down - not too far or too close to your body. I would estimate the hands and club to be approximately six to eight inches away from the body, depending on your height, if done correctly.

I will again emphasize the importance of ”Relaxing” for the set up and the entire golf swing. I don’t mean to the point of falling asleep, but there should be no tension in the body, especially the arms, shoulders and legs. This will promote a much better tempo and allow the speed of the swing and the club to do the work, which in turn will produce much better results. Since all golfers are different in stature and ability, they may utilize a variation on the ideology noted above. This information is derived from personal knowledge and over 30 years of experience of playing golf and I would hope it would be helpful to the majority of golfers. There is nothing like practice and experience for learning the correct way to swing a golf club. In order for the practice to be efficient and your ability to improve you must have the basic foundation in place for the proper swing, playing techniques and strategies of the game. Learn “The Right Way”. Happy Golfing To All!

Backswing

2010-02-16T04:40:00.000-08:00

The Golf Swing
"The Backswing"

Now that you've taken your Grip, performed your Set Up Routine and The Waggle you're ready for action.

Before we start the backswing a few reminders or tips =

1. When you tee the golf ball, especially for use with the driver be sure to set it at the proper height.
Note: The rule of thumb is the ball should sit approximately 1/2 of the diameter of the golf ball above the clubhead when the club is set on the ground.

2. Stay "Relaxed" during all phases of your swing.
Note: If you've chosen to incorporate The Waggle into your swing routine then utilize it to its fullest advantage and make it not only your swing trigger but your reminder to "Relax" as well.

3. Make sure your head is upright so as not to impede the shoulder turn on the backswing.

4. Keep your left arm as straight as possible Note: Keeping the left arm straight may feel uncomfortable at first but it is critical to promoting consistent ball striking, accuracy and distance.

Now you're ready to go. In the instructional books and videos that I've studied I have sometime gotten conflicting information as to how to start the backswing. That does not mean that one method is right or wrong there are just different techniques and methodology used by different instructors.
Immediately after The Waggle or no waggle, if that is your preference, you are ready to execute the swing. Most of the instructional material, when I was first learning to play, taught a move to start the backswing called the "One Piece Take Away". This means that your two arms, hands and the club formed a Y shape, which it does, and they would move back away from the target in one piece or motion while maintaining the Y shape. I had utilized that method for many years before I read about and experimented with the immediate wristcock, or setting of the wrist right at the onset of the backswing. By this I mean that instead of taking the club back in the Y formation I would break the wrist and start the backswing in more of an L position. Either method will work and it is a matter of personal preference and which feels more comfortable for you. In either method the wrists should be set by about waist height and the club should be pointing skyward as your arms approach parallel to the ground. Your weight should shift to your right side ( without a lateral movement of the body ) and your upper body should continue turning away from the target with minimal turning of the hips.
This will allow a coiling of the upper body and a more powerful release as you uncoil in your Downswing. Make sure your shoulder turns under your chin and your back is facing the target, which will also promote a more powerful and accurate swing.

Note: Do Not Overturn or Over Rotate. In Step 2 - The Set Up I mentioned to tilt the body slightly forward at the waist and remain in a reasonably upright position. This will create a spine angle which should be maintained during most of your swing. The Backswing and The Downswing should rotate around the spine as the central pivot point. The more that rotation can be maintained the more accurate and powerful the results will be.

When you reach the top of the backswing in practice make sure the club is pointing back toward the target line, which will happen automatically if your wrists are set properly. This will allow the club to stay on line to prepare for The Downswing.
I would also like to stress again the importance of a straight left arm and to "Relax" always. Let's recap our checklist so far - Tee the Ball ( not on the checklist but I think you may have a problem going forward if you leave this out ), take your grip , perform your Set Up Routine and re-adjust your grip, if necessary, execute the Waggle, and make your backswing and most importantly - Have Fun!

Power Walking

2010-02-16T04:38:00.000-08:00

Power Walking - How To Improve Your Golf Game With One Simple Exercise

Do you have a spring in your step while playing a round of golf or do you feel completely exhausted by the 15th hole? Sometimes you may feel out of breath just walking to your next shot.

Hours of sitting at computers, driving to work and then watching TV at home, all lead to being less physically fit, posture-related aches and pains and a general feeling of sluggishness. Then you get to the golf course and wonder why you simply just don't have the energy to complete a nice round of golf.

Golf is no different than any other sport. You need to be physcially fit to perform at your best. This is even more important if your a recreational golfer since you really don't have time to practice.

One of the most natural forms of exercise is walking. Walking is an aerobic exercise that will not only increase your cardiovascular strength, but is good for the bones and improves your posture as well. I would like to introduce you to power walking and list some of the benefits it has on your golf game.

Power Walking

This is a form of aerobic exercise consisting of rapid walking accompanied by vigorous, controlled swinging of the arms. Simply put, it is an exaggerated walking style that has more health benefits than just a casual stroll.

You want to get your power walking speed up to 4.0 to 4.5 mph for optimal calorie burning. However, if you are just starting out you may want to go at a slower pace and gradually pick up the pace over a few weeks time.

Power Walking Benefits

1. Cardiovascular fitness is improved thus giving you more endurance to complete a full round of golf, not to mention reducing the risk of coronary disease and strokes.

2. Mental well-being is improved resulting in a reduction in anxiety, stress and tension allowing you to relax and focus on the golf course.

3. Muscles are toned and strengthened allowing you to better handle the physical demands of the golf swing.

4. Helps to reduce body fat and manage your body weight therefore improving your golf physic.

5. Boosts energy so you don't tire as easily going form shot to shot.

The above are just a few of the physical and mental benefits to be gained from power walking for golf. It is a low cost form of exercise. No special clothes or equipment are necessary except a good pair of walking shoes.

Although any form of walking is beneficial, power walking is extremely helpful with golf performance, both mentally and physically. So grab your walking shoes and power walk yourself to a better golf game!

As always consult your doctor before starting your power walking program.

Help You Become A More Solid Putter

2010-02-16T04:35:00.000-08:00

Golf Putting Tips To Help You Become A More Solid Putter

Golf for the Adult beginner

2010-02-16T04:30:00.000-08:00

Golf for the Adult beginner

Every day more and more people are taking it up for the first time. I was once a beginning golfer myself and I remember the frustrations of learning the swing and playing well. And that was with a Golf Pro Father.

There are a lot of books and other information products available for established golfers, but not a lot for adults who are brand new to the game. Amongst all the tour talk, long drives and 400cc drivers, it seems beginners are left out.

A golf is a great game providing a lifetime of enjoyment and when you finally achieve a certain level of proficiency, a whole new element of the game appears, ensuring there is always a challenge.

Many schools offer an introductory 4 hour class - usually for around $320 - on the basics of golf, but you are better off to work on those yourself, then pay for lessons when you are comfortable with the basic knowledge. You won't be effective until you have mastered at least the basics, so by doing it at home, by yourself can remove much of the embarrassment that is often felt by beginners.

I have seen beginners made to play rounds of golf way too early in their development. The result is a bad experience that can, in some cases, turn them off golf forever. A much better strategy is - you guessed it - get the basics down first.

There are many opinions on the golf swing but we can agree that without doubt, the most effective, not to mention quickest way to improve is to study, then practise what you have studied.

You've heard it all before - there are no short cuts... Well, for golf it is especially true. Study and practise will get you there. Repetition of the skills and the swing will help develop your game, playing will help you develop the magical quality called 'touch.'

Having the right knowledge is the key.

Just as there is a technique to hitting a ball in tennis, or throwing a football, golf has a correct motion which must be learned. The swing can be broken down into phases to assist with learning where the body should be for each phase of the swing. The sooner you can do this, the sooner you can start to enjoy playing the game of golf.

Some of the basics you need to know in order to get started.

The game: etiquette - You need to know about the game and the things you shouldn't ever do on the golf course. It is a game with rules of conduct. This is listed first, because respecting the traditions of the game is vital.

The swing - The fundamentals of the movement and how to repeat it. Knowing the plane the club should swing on and getting familiar with where things should be at the various stages of the movement.

The grip - The point of contact between the hands and the golf club takes some getting used to - I am yet to meet a person who doesn't think it feels strange at first.

The address position - How to line up with the ball for both hands and feet.

The back swing - The check points to ensure a correct back swing and proper setup for the Down swing.

The down swing - Knowing how it is initiated and where the club needs to be at impact.

Club and ball positions - Where you should play the ball in your stance for different clubs.

The short game - Handling shots around the green, including basic putting technique.

Difficult lies - The adjustments you need to make for a non-level lies and other tricky situations that exist on the golf course.

Rules of play - The most common encountered rules on the course.

Mostly people start out in golf with no knowledge whatsoever. They watch the PGA tour and expect to be able to play just as well. Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way. It takes knowledge and practise. Lot's of it.

Having an understanding of all these things is the key to experiencing some early improvement. If you don't understand the basics, then golf lessons won't help you. If you do have some knowledge, then you can consciously understand the instructions you'll be given and will well on the way to getting the basics of golf together so you can start enjoying this wonderful game.

Taking Up The Game of Golf

2010-02-16T04:25:00.000-08:00

Taking Up The Game of Golf

Golf has always been a popular sport among many different people.
It's often associated with executive businessmen and while it is true that golf is a particularly popular choice with many businessmen, it is also popular in other walks of life.
There are a number of good reasons to take up golf but the only real way to find out if it is a good choice for you is to give it a go.
You should be able to borrow or rent some clubs in order to play a couple of rounds of golf because a set of clubs can prove fairly expensive if you only use them a couple of times before putting them in the attic.

The Golf is a healthy sport.
As well as getting you out in the fresh air it also exercises the heart, the lungs and many muscles when you are walking round the course.
It may not seem much, but playing a round of golf every week is a very good way of helping to prevent heart disease and other illnesses.

A Golf can be a good way to socialize. Visiting the clubhouse after a round of golf gives you the opportunity to meet new people and chat to friends about how your round went and your life in general.
As another aspect of this, it also gives you the opportunity to network if you are a businessman.

The modern golf game is centered around perfect shots, scientific practice and ability.
Gone are the days of wearing plus fours and cloth caps and in are the days of larger heads, metal woods and graphite shafts.
While talent and ability are obviously the most important factors, there is certainly a lot of equipment around that claims to improve different aspects of your game.

How to get started?

2010-02-16T04:19:00.000-08:00

How to get started?

Golf for anybody?

Golf is a great game: sometimes rewarding, often frustrating but highly addictive. Getting started in it is actually not so difficult, and hopefully this article can help you avoid some of the common pitfalls.

The first steps.
The biggest mistake by people wanting to start in golf is to rush out and buy a brand new set of shiny and expensive golf clubs. While they are nice to look at you should keep in mind that today’s golf equipment comes in great varieties to cater for different golfing types and abilities. Since you're just starting out you do not know which set fits you best. Just imagine the envious looks you get at the driving range when you come with your $2000 set, and the subsequent laughter when you try and just 'hack away' - not worth the embarrassment! Once you spend a few hundred or even thousand $$ on a set that doesn't suit your style you're stuck with it or you have to sell it to somebody else at a loss.

If you feel you want your own clubs get a half set. This generally comprises five irons and perhaps two woods and a putter. Usually the irons are the odd numbers 3,5,7,9 and wedge. These clubs are more than enough to get you started.
A better alternatively: most Driving Ranges will have clubs for hire, so you can try out a few different ones. You can also borrow one or two clubs from a friend. The shortest iron (nine iron) or a wedge are the best clubs to start, practicing with it will give you the feeling of hitting the ball in the air and should be fairly straight forward.

Where to get golf clubs?
Most Pro shops and driving ranges sell second hand clubs. They will also be able to offer you advice and let you try some clubs out. Nearly all driving ranges will have clubs for hire if you want to have a go without committing to a set until you get the hang of it. Or ask other people at the driving range, you will soon find out that many have another set of clubs at home because they made the exact same mistakes I mentioned above. Make sure you try before you buy, if they fit (and only if they fit!) you can often get them for a steal. Make use of these opportunities. DO NOT buy expensive brands at this stage.

"I want to play, I want to play!"
As hard as it will be to contain yourself, don't even contemplate going anywhere near a golf course. Golf is technically quite demanding, and without at least some basic training you'll end up with a lot of frustration. You've seen the top players on TV loosing their cool in frustration, imagine how you will feel if not even a single shot goes where you want it to. Besides, the other people having to wait for you will also not be happy.
As a beginner at the great game of golf, start off at a driving range, take at least four or five lessons, learn the fundamentals, progress to a 9 hole course and eventually venture out into the great unknown of an 18 hole golf course. Believe me, it will be a lot more fun for you and those around you if you follow this path.

Where to get lessons?

You will meet lot of people at the range who will teach you the 'innermost secrets' of golf. Fact is that most of them have started playing not long before you. So the answer to the above question is: go to a Professional.
As you have seen on TV, even the world’s top players have a coach. Tiger Woods, probably the best golfer the world, still takes lessons. Certified Golf Professionals are the only people qualified to teach you how to play the game.
Lessons from a Pro will cost you money but will be the best investment you'll ever make. Taking the advise from the 'know-it-all' people at the range will likely screw-up your game at the very early stage, and it will take a long time to correct the faults later.
The 2 places to get golf lessons are at driving ranges and golf clubs. You don't have to be a member of a club to get a lesson from the Pro. You bring in money, so they will be glad to help. The usual cost is about $25-40 per 45 min, but you will get reductions for a block booking. If you are a bit on the budget see if they do group bookings, those are also cheaper than individual lessons.

What else to do?

Golf Books and the Videos can be invaluable in learning the basics. To build a sound golf swing you will need the three fundamentals: Grip, Stance and Posture. There are some very good books and videos on the market that will help you to establish the three fundamentals. And watch the Pro's on the TV, or better still video them and play back in slow motion, you'll learn a lot this way. Don't get blinded by too much science, you're still a beginner. Stick to Grip, Stance and Posture and you'll be on your way.

Summary
1. Don't waste your money on expensive clubs until you have reached a basic level of competency.
2. Don't go near a Golf Course, again until you have reached a basic level.
3. Get lessons from a qualified professional.
4. Learn the three fundamentals
5. Watch the Pro's.
6. Practice.
7. Learn the rules of golf and the basic golf etiquette .

How To Reach The Proper Impact Position.

2010-02-16T04:14:00.000-08:00

How To Reach The Proper Impact Position.

It's All That Counts!

Keep in mind that when someone slices the ball, their body is moving faster than their arms and club. A person who hooks the ball too much is doing the opposite. Their hands, arms and club are moving faster than their body. Since most people slice the ball, it is easy to see that it is almost impossible to swing your arms too fast.

The Swing Plane

The swing plane is the angle at which the club travels throughout the swing. There have been numerous theories about which swing plane is the proper or best swing plane. After viewing thousands of golf swings, both amateur and professional, our conclusion is that
the swing plane has not been properly described to date.

Most golf instructors today draw a line up the golf shaft and consider that the plane.

We believe that the line drawn up the shaft is an indicator of where you want the club to be at impact, (within about three degrees to allow for the bowing of the shaft). If you are able to maintain a swing path that is parallel or directly on the original shaft angle at address then your chances of returning the your address position at impact increase.

For example, if you were to swing the golf club very steep to the plane, or original shaft angle at address, then you must make a rapid adjustment to reroute the golf club back to the plane or address angle. Not impossible to do but far more difficult.
Here is a good example of keeping the golf club traveling on a proper plane. Notice that the address plane and the impact plane are not exactly alike. The golf club is in motion and your thrust toward the target will make the golf club attack the ball from an angle slightly higher than the address position. This is why the toe of your club head should be slightly off the ground at address to accommodate the higher plane at impact.

Impact:

The impact point is simply another location along the swing path. Of course, in mechanical terms, impact is the moment that matters. However, it is not the thing that should matter most in the mind of the golfer. It is more useful to imagine where you are
going in the swing rather than where you are at a given moment. This is the reason we would like to limit your focus on impact.

I have found that most great golfers end up in an impact position that is slightly higher than that of the address position.
A more accurate measurement is a line drawn from the golf club head through the elbows.

The most important thing to understand is that the golf club head must be as close as possible to 90 degrees from the path of the golf club in order to hit the ball straight.

Your left wrist should feel slightly bulged at impact. The left leg also straightens at impact.

Immediately after the impact position, the forearms rotate, allowing the golf club to remain square to the follow-through path and allowing the left arm to bend. One might need to feel as though this is happening before the impact area, in order to accomplish the club face passing the hand position through impact.

If these principles seem a bit abstract to you now, do not worry. They will become much clearer as we analyze your swing in more depth with the video camera. Just keep them in mind now and refer back to this section as you proceed through your instruction program.

Faulty Movement

Scooping
Typical Cause: Body too far in front of the arms, falling back on your right foot.
Remedy: Keep the left hand bulged at impact, limit the body movement in the swing, get your upper body to move forward on the follow through.

Starting Your Down Swing For Power

2010-02-16T04:10:00.000-08:00

Starting Your Down Swing For Power

The Transition:
The transition from loading to unloading should be smooth and rhythmic. The tempo may vary form person to person but it is important not to make the transition too “jerky.”

The downswing is always initiated from the ground up. Most people feel that they initiate the swing with the body.
Cause the body has a small circumference around which to travel, verses the very large circumference the club has to travel, it will feel like the arms must begin the downswing rather than the body. This is only a feeling. The video will show this to be the case.

Some players have described the downswing as pulling down on a rope. Some may describe the downswing as a driving of the knees toward the target or swing path.

In any case, the one thing a golfer must avoid is an unwinding of the shoulder in the downswing. Since the body does have less territory to cover in the downswing, a premature unwinding of the shoulders will cause the body to be either ahead of the arms or open at impact. This may cause a pulling of the golf ball or a pull slice if the club face is open to the path.

Faulty Movement

Starting Down with the Shoulders
Typical Cause: Beginning as if in a baseball swing, with a turning of the shoulders.
Remedy: Pull down with the hands and arms first, and begin the downswing with the knees driving toward the golf ball.

How To Lower Your Handicap Over The Winter

2010-02-16T04:07:00.000-08:00

How To Lower Your Handicap Over The Winter

An excellent time to make lasting changes in your swing movement. Why? Because it takes slow deliberate repetitions to teach your body to change motions or patterns which you probably would not be willing to do during the season because you want to play.

1) Must Have a Good Grip.

Most golf professionals have a golf club along side they’re sofa. After all, we do have to make any television viewing productive. When a silly commercial message comes on you hold the golf club in your hands right up in front of your face so you so you can see your grip. Grip the golf club slowly.

Notice where your fingers are and how it feels to you. You need to grip the golf club in your fingers. If you have one of those training grips that would be a good idea as a reference. One commercial use the training grip, and next commercial use the golf club. Compare the too and keep doing it until the golf club grip feels and looks very similar to the training grip.

Once you think you have the two grips feeling similar then stand up and make a stance. After you make a stance lift your grip up in front of your face again so you can see and feel the proper grip.

2) Drills for Your Address Position.

It would be best if you could do this in front of a full length mirror. You’ll also need a helper the first time to help put masking tape on the mirror.

Stand before the mirror as in the picture below. Then place the tape where I have the lines drawn. If your address position does not match the one in the picture below, please put your masking tape according to my picture and now follow those lines and angles in setting up to a golf ball.

Step back and set up to the ball again once the tape is on the mirror. Once you think you’re set up properly swivel your head up so you can see where you are.

Be careful not to lift your back out of position! Just slowly swivel your head. If the angles are perfect step back and do it again. You can’t do this too much. If you can’t set up to the golf ball perfectly every time, how can you expect to produce the same ball flight every time.

Next get to work on your down line view. Look at the picture below and follow the same procedures. The big key here is the 90 degree spine angle found in every successful golfer.

3) Top of the Back Swing Position.

Remaining in the down line view make a back swing, hold the top of the back swing position, turn very slowly and swivel your head looking at the mirror to see if you have lifted your spine out of position. You MUST maintain spine angle to be consistent! You may need to feel as though your chest is working downward on the back swing in order to stay level. Many golf professionals talk of the back swing as being down hill.

Go for the frontal view and see if you remain in the proper position at the top of the back swing. Also notice if your head moves slightly backward at the top of the back swing. Moving your head laterally if fine just avoid any upward or downward movement.

4) Starting the Down Swing.

Once you’re at the top of the back swing position, stop and look at the mirror, then very very very slowly start your arms straight down toward the ground while holding your body perfectly still. The more you do this the better.

The arms and golf club have more territory to cover on their way to the impact position so they must get a head start on the body. This drill will really help in
your creating a feeling of the arms moving first on the downswing without the body helping or shifting laterally prematurely. An early turn of the body is the killer of many a good golf swing.

5) The Finish.

Go ahead a make a full golf swing now. Once you make a swing hold your finish. If you have trouble holding your finish position you have a problem somewhere in your swing motion.

Once holding the finish swivel your head over to the mirror and see if your back is nice and straight and that you’re balanced on your front foot. Any bending in your spine, (the reverse “C”) is not desirable.

Important Golf Tips for Beginners

2010-02-16T04:04:00.000-08:00

Important Golf Tips for Beginners

Starting in the game of golf can be confusing with all of the equipment available, people offering you free tips, and the feeling that you have to take everything so seriously.
There are 3 golf tips for beginners that I was given by my instructor when I started, and that has really been a big help to me.

1. Don't Break the Bank With Your First Set of Clubs

As a beginner, you are not going to get all of the benefits that come from a top of the line set of golf clubs. As a beginner, you are not going to have the consistent contact or club head speed needed. Instead, think about buying a cheaper set, or better yet, get yourself a used set. You may also be able to use a free set from one of your more experienced friends until you figure out which clubs would be best for you.

2. Be Aware of Who is Giving You Instruction

Your friends, relatives, and sometimes people who don't even know you will think they have the golf tips for beginners that will fix all of your problems. Granted, if you have friends who are pretty good golfers, it may help to listen to them when you are first starting. However, to really understand the game, as a beginner, get your instruction from a professional. Golf pros are experienced in fixing swing problems and explaining things to you in terms of how they affect ball flight. Lessons are available at most any golf course, and even just a couple will really help set a good foundation for your game.

3. Enjoy Yourself

It may sound simple, but one of the best golf tips for beginners is to just have fun with the game. Keep in mind that you are probably not going to be getting your PGA card. Being competitive is fine, and of course you are going to want to continue to improve, but golf is a leisure game. Take your time out there and have fun with your friends.

These 3 golf tips for beginners can make all of the difference in the world. If you just get the right clubs to start, take instruction from those who know the game, and have fun, then golf will be a great way for you to spend your leisure time.

Golf - Learn To Play

2010-02-01T17:23:00.000-08:00

Golf - Learn To Play

There are lot of options available to learn to play golf. You can self teach, have a relative or friend teach you, go to your resident pro at the driving range, take lessons from the golf professional at your country club or pro shop, go to golf-tec at the Golfsmith locations or if your high school or college offers a golf program join the program.
The method you choose can greatly affect how quickly you learn and how adept you become at the game. At the time I started playing I opted to teach myself.
I read "The Golfers Bible " and "The Five Fundamentals of Golf" by Ben Hogan. The books were both very informative and contained valuable information to help one get started to play. In my opinion, and any one who knows about the history of golf would agree, Ben Hogan was one of the most natural and skilled golfers who ever played the game.
I was confident that any book that he authored on golf could only be informative and benefit someone who wanted to learn to play. I can attest first hand that it helped me tremendously.

Depending on one's budget and how quickly someone wants to develop their skills, I would recommend lessons from a teaching professional. Unless you are born with a natural talent for the sport, which from my experience those so gifted are few and far between, lessons are the way to go.
As I stated earlier I am self taught and have been playing for about 30 years.
The learning curve is different for everyone, but I noted that most golfers who are good at other sports, especially baseball and hockey have a tendency to learn to play well.
Having been self taught I had to experiment with different techniques over the years to improve my game. Until today I am still reading up on the latest and greatest on Instruction and Equipment and continuing to experiment to try to play better.
With the increased popularity of golf, thanks in most part to the arrival of Tiger Woods on the scene, the teaching techniques and availability of teaching professionals has increased tremendously.

I would strongly recommend that lessons are the way to go. Golf is a sport which requires muscle memory for a repetitive swing. Once your swing techniques and mechanics are ingrained in the subconscious, it will be harder to correct if you do not learn properly at the onset. Having the proper basics is crucial for learning to play the right way.

Golf will be so much more enjoyable if you play well and learn the proper techniques for the swing. There are a number of steps to master the correct golf swing and a teaching professional will be able to show each of them to you.
You will learn much quicker than reading about them and experimenting for years .
Some of the steps are as follows:
The Grip - How you set the club in your hands, The Set-Up - (How you address the ball) the positioning of your body and alignment in relation to the ball, The Waggle - This is a trigger or initial movement to allow the swing to start properly, Tempo - The speed and timing from the start of the backswing through the hitting area and the follow thru, Backswing - the move immediately following the waggle -the cocking of the wrist and the turning or coiling of the body together with the arms and shoulders away from the target to prepare for the Downswing, The Downswing - immediately follows the backswing and is the part of the swing where impact with the ball takes place including the pronation of the hands thru the hit, The Follow Thru - the completion of the golf swing which concludes the transfer of your weight from your right side to your left (for right handed golfers - opposite would be true for lefties) and body positioning to face the target.

If any of the aforementioned steps is not executed properly it can greatly affect the result of the shot. With the advent of Video Instruction, the instructor can play back the video and explain and show you exactly what you were doing right or wrong during the course of your swing.
You've heard the expression that "One picture is worth a thousand words", well it would most definitely apply in this case.
Though you can read a book on golf or watch golf teaching videos ( some are very good), it is still not the same as being taught first hand by a professional.

Fitness for the Average Golfer

2010-02-01T17:21:00.000-08:00

Fitness for the Average Golfer

Lately, a more careful look at the professional golf ranks will reveal many well-conditioned people. Such conditioning is needed to perform consistently well at a high level. After all, it isn't often noted, but the golf swing is an intensely athletic motion.
Some professional golfers don't look like athletes, the fact remains that golfers are athletes.

Given that fact, even the most casual golfer who incorporates the simplest of exercises can help himself or herself shave strokes off the handicap, and maybe a few inches off the waist.

A golf analysis company based in Germany, Golf Biodynamics, conducted a study using twenty-eight weekend golfers. They were introduced to an eight-week, “five-column” workout plan. The five columns were different sets of exercises that concentrated on five different fitness-related aspects of golf – coordination, balance, strength, the swing itself, and flexibility.

The results of the study were overwhelming. The group as a whole experienced an increase in upper-body rotation and an 80 percent gain in upper-body strength. T
he stability of their hip rotation also increased, resulting in a more controlled swing, and their collective clubhead speed increased by 9.4 percent.
Think they’re having fun knocking their drives past their playing partners now?

As with any workout regimen, the older a person gets, the harder it is to see results. Younger golfers and women, all with lower handicaps, saw more immediate results on the golf course.
However seniors and bogey golfers can take heart; the sport is a game of inches. The slightest change any golfer makes can have a significant impact in her game, and will help avoid back pain, knee pain, and other health problems many middle-aged to senior golfers experience.

Finding The Best Possible...

2010-02-01T17:18:00.000-08:00

Finding The Best Possible Golf Career For Your Needs

There is barely a golfer in the world that wouldn't trade in their day job to get paid to be on the course all day long.
However, most do not realize that obtaining a golf career is actually not as difficult as they might originally believe it to be. You don't have to be a professional on the PGA circuit to enjoy all of the freedoms and fun of a career in your favorite sport.

There is a wide array of opportunities right from the beginning golfer all the way up to the professionals. Ideally, most would want to have a career simply playing golf.
Though this is entirely possibly, it is advisable to discover if the idea is plausible before going ahead full steam. Perhaps you could start by playing in a few tournaments with cash prizes. If things go well and you end up with some money in your pocket, perhaps a career as a professional golfer isn't all that impossible.
However, most golfers don't quite have the stuff to be able to compete for money. Thankfully, there are a lot of other golf careers that will keep you involved in the game even when you're not even on the course.

One thing to consider is to become a golf pro. If your friends are always remarking that you have the perfect swing or how your drives always reach a far distance and are always straight away, then a golf career as a golf professional may be the perfect choice for you. This is also a very flexible job because you decide how many hours you work per week.
You could either do a few lessons a week just for supplementary income at the start and once your client base gets big enough, you could start doing it full time.
The best advertising is word of mouth, so if your clients are happy with your service they will undoubtedly inform their friends and family as well.

There is also a wide variety of careers that involve the retail aspect of golf.
You could start your own golf specialty store, which would keep you surrounded in golf gear every day and talking about golf to your hearts content.
There is a booming industry presently with imprinted golf balls, which is a business that you can run directly from your own home.
Lot of people are searching for golf balls with team logos, pictures of family or slogans emblazoned on them. The technology is a bit expensive at the beginning but all you would need to sell your items is a website. There is such a wide variety of golf careers that if you decide you want to work with golf full time, you shouldn't have a problem finding a suitable career.

A golf career doing maintenance on your favorite course will keep you on the grounds all day. Most people that work directly for the golf course either get to play for free, or at a discounted rate.
If you have a love for golf, there is sure to be a golf career out there that fits perfectly with your talents. Whether as a golf pro, a retailer, a groundskeeper or even a professional golfer, the options are basically unlimited. So don't be intimidated by those who say you could never have a full time career in golf. Prove them wrong by landing the job of your dreams.

Electric Golf Trolleys

2010-02-01T17:15:00.000-08:00

Electric Golf Trolleys...
Making Golf Games Better

Golf is a game of swings. The better and more accurate your swing is, the better golfer you are.
However, mastering a perfect golf swing exposes you to a lot of health hazards. Some of the very common health hazards that a golfer often face are problems with lower back, elbows, shoulders, hands and wrists.
Lot of assistive golf equipment has been introduced lately to ward off these hazards and make the game of golf a better one. Plenty of new concepts have also emerged to help golfers reduce the hazards of the game and assist in achieving the perfect swing.

Some of the commonly used pieces of assistive golf equipment are ball teeing devices that help a golfer to tee up their ball while in standing position, magnetic ball markers which when used with a putter help a golfer to mark their ball on the green without the need of bending down, mini caddies that allow a golfer to carry 2 balls, tees, pencil etc. in one that attaches to belt or bag, tee tools, remote controlled or manual electric golf trolleys etc.

All these piece of equipment somehow or other help to reduce a golfer’s stress and make the game of golf more comfortable and enjoyable. The most vulnerable parts of a golfer’s body which are always open to hazards are the shoulders, neck and lower back. And these are the parts that are used mostly in the golf swing. If these areas are tired, the game becomes tough for a golfer and eventually he/she cannot give his best. As a result the probability of losing the game is fairly high.

Before these pieces of equipment emerged, the only way to move around a golf course was to walk, and with the addition of carrying the heavy golf bag on the shoulders. For a person with knee, back or shoulder problems this idea was definitely not comfortable. The process of carrying the heavy bag, putting it down and again picking it up all through the game was tough even for a person with no health issues.

The most notable amongst the items of assistive golf equipment is probably electric golf trolleys as they effectively reduce this hazard to a large extent.
The golfers who using electric golf trolleys do not need to carry a heavy golf bag on their shoulders as they move around the course between swings. This reduces the stress, especially in the lower back and shoulders, that adds to the stress of walking and thus helps to effectively reduce a golfer’s handicap. Walking between shots definitely does have cardiovascular health benefits, but pulling a thirty to forty pound golf bag along does not.

The electric golf trolleys can be manual or remote controlled. The items often come with batteries, rain covers, travel bag, chargers and toolkits.
Some of the electric golf trolleys are foldable and are very easy to store.
Some more advanced ones come with a score card holder.
Stylish as they are, with all the features to reduce the hazards of the game and aiding golfers in their efforts to achieve the perfect swing, electric golf trolleys go a long way towards making the game of golf a better one.

Does The World Need Another Golf Pro

2010-02-01T17:13:00.000-08:00

Does The World Need Another Golf Pro?

There's a new way of thinking in the golfing community and it just might affect the career choice that you make. The new movement of anti golf pro is starting to emerge and for those that want to make a career out of the sport that they love, it just might cause you to listen to what everyone has been saying.

As a golf pro, your job is to help other golfers be the best golfer that they can be. You might work with them on their swing, their putting and even their sand traps.
All of the work that you are doing is helping them to get closer to their dreams of being a better golfer. The sounds all fine and dandy, but with all of the new books and videos available, it almost seems like the personal touch is going out of style.

Golf instruction DVDs and seminars are mainly geared to one thing: making money. Along the way, they might also help the golfer to improve their swing and maybe shave a few strokes off their games.
However, in the end, they're just another product on the market that may or may not work. The videos are neither able to give corrections if the golfer is doing something wrong, nor are they going to be available when the golfer is actually working through what they've learned. However a golf pro is a hands-on teacher that can move with the golfer through the issues that they have as they're actually experiencing the problems.

A golf pro can help the golfer adjust their swing as they're practicing so that they can build the muscle and memory to be able to take the skills that they have learned onto the golf course.
A relationship between the golfer and the pro emerges and allows them to interact with each other in order to create better golf players and better golf scores.

What's happened recently is that many more 'golf pros' are touting themselves as such without the background in the game. These are business profiteers that are trying to get into the high price golf market with flashy slogans and big promises.
However, they do not have the skills to back them up. But to the average everyday consumer, they don't realize this fact and succumb to inferior instruction that doesn't help them at all. And then they need to move onto the next 'golf pro' that they find.

The real golf pros have had to prove to their clients that they are more than just another person trying to make money. You'll find these true professionals employed through golf retailers as well as through country clubs and golf courses. These are pros that have had extensive training in golf and teaching golf skills in order to improve someone else's game.

What a golfer should do is investigate the credentials of the golf pro that they have chosen. Perhaps they can look into the classes that the pro states they have taken or perhaps look at their golfing scores to see if they practice what they preach.
Any 'pro' that touts his or herself on the Internet or via another print media should be looked upon with caution as you can't verify their credentials or see them in action.

When you're looking to become a golf pro, you will want to make sure that you know what you're doing and that you can show your prospective clients that knowledge. All of the videos and training books in the world cannot teach golf as well as a true professional can.

Do The Golf Swing Aids Really Help...

2010-02-01T17:12:00.000-08:00

Do The Golf Swing Aids Really Help Improve Your Golf Swing?

The Golf swing aids haven't always had the best reputation in the golfing industry. Upon first hitting the scene, they were viewed as little more than gimmicks, making the user look silly while using or wearing them, and providing no real benefits.
As the game has evolved globally, taking on more and more players at a rapid rate, the technology surrounding golf has also improved quite a bit, and this extends to golf swing aids, which have shed their dubious skin to attain a well-respected position in the golfing world as valuable teaching tools.

For a sport as technically demanding as golf is, arguably the most technical and challenging in the world, it's not a surprise that players of all skill levels can benefit from devices which help spotlight weaknesses in their game and shore them up.
The golf swing is an intricate mechanic, but for all that intricacy, it very much becomes rote to the body, which can reproduce the exact same swing mechanics repeatedly through muscle memory. This is perfect when you have a good swing, but if your swing is less than stellar, this can cause obvious dilemmas. How do you correct flaws in a swing that's so ingrained, it performs of its own accord?

The answer is to use swing aids which force the user into correct positions. The body has no choice but to adapt the new positions, and through enough use, this new form will eventually take the place of the old, giving the user the ability to successfully reproduce without the help of the aid. These aids can extend to all areas of the swing, be it the swing plane itself, the positioning of the hands and wrists, proper alignment with the ball and target, and much more.

The first step in determining which golf swing aid would be of the most use to you is to identify where your trouble areas are. A second set of eyes is useful in this situation, be it a friend or family member, or a golfing instructor. Another possible method is to record video of yourself from different angles during your swing, so you can see your motion in a different light.

Once you know your weaknesses, you can look into a beneficial golf aid which targets that weakness. Take the time to read up on the different products, and especially the reviews of those products from other golfers to determine which one sounds right for you.
The most golf swing aids are available for purchase online, often at a fraction of the price of what you'd pay at a pro shop of sporting goods store. Be sure to share your experience with the device with other golfers as well, so they know which products are worth their weight in golf balls. Your golfing buddies on the other hand, well, we'll leave that up to you. Bragging rights go a long way on and off the golf course, and it may be that some things are better kept secret from your friends.

Did The Game Of Golf Originate From Outer Space ?

2010-02-01T17:09:00.000-08:00

Did The Game Of Golf Originate From Outer Space ?

The exact origins of the game of golf remain a subject of continual debate.
Though Scotland is generally considered as the birthplace of the game, as it is played today. The claim is due in large part to a number of specific historical references dating as far back as the mid 1400s.

The most commonly cited of these references is a written record that a games called either geoff, gowf or gawd , this is a hard game was played during the reign of James II of Scotland. In 1457 King James proclaimed by royal decree that the playing of “fluteball : and “gowf” were forbidden so that the men of Scotland could concentrate on their archery practice.

Thus the pursuit of golf remained outlawed until the signing of the Treaty of Glasgow in the year of '1501 m which brought peace between the warring parties. At this point even Scotland James IV took up the game of golf himself. A long relationship between golf and royalty ensued – although both commoners and gentry alike frowned upon Mary Queen of Scots when, in 1567 was found to be playing golf just days after the death of her husband Darney.

In an alternate theory of golf’s beginnings, a Dutch historian, Steven von Hengel, has argued that golf originated in Holland around 1297. A form of the game called spel metten kove and also called Colf. Colf, it is believed, was played primarily on ice. Nevertheless golf may have grown out of this game and another game that was popular in Holland, called Jeu De Mail. This letter carrying game was played in wooden shoes with soft spikes.

Without question golf’s major growth occurred in Great Britain, primarily in Scotland.
Golf became an accepted part of the culture as early as 1604, when William Mayne was appointed Royal Clubmaker, although the game was still reserved for the elite who had the wealth and leisure to enjoy it.
Early golf was played with a feathery golf ball - a stitched leather ball stuffed with boiled goose feathers. A feather ball cost three times as much as a club and because feathery balls were so delicate, players had to carry three to six balls In addition the balls flew poorly in wet weather, a fact that further dissuaded the working class who, unlike the gentry did not possess the flexibility of flexible time and leisure for scheduled games of golf.

The ball, as it has throughout history, dictated other matters pertaining to the development of the game. Because the feathery ball performed so inadequately when damp, early golf was played predominantly on the relatively arid eastern side of Scotland. Furthermore the eastern seaside location was popular because the underlying sandy soil drained more rapidly than the and the grass was naturally shorter. It must be noted that the invention of the lawn mower is a relatively current occurrence. Along the way this short grassed seaside golfing location came to be too referred to as links.

If the debate over whether the Scots or Dutch created the game of golf, the Scots certainly had a hand in creating the golf club. Leith is considered the birthplace of organized golf, and the golf club called the Honorable Company of Gentleman Golfers was founded by William St. Clair in Leith in 1744 and later became the Company of Edinburgh Golfers.
Ten years later, the Royal and Ancient Golf Company was founded under it original name, the Society of St. Andrews Golfers. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club runs the British Open and British Amateur duties that it assumed in 1919 , and since 1951 has administered the rules of golf in cooperation with the United States Golf Association .
The R & A also established 18 holes as the standard golf course. In 1764, the Old Course at St. Andrews consisted of 22 holes with golfers playing 11 holes out and 11 back. Eventually the last 4 holes on each side, all short converted into 2 holes leaving 18 to be played.

Become a More Athletic Golfer

2010-02-01T17:04:00.000-08:00

Become a More Athletic Golfer to Improve Your Golf Game

Golf and Fitness are two terms that can finally go hand in hand, thanks to one Tiger Woods and his famous mystery workout routine, and the other professional and amateur players who have followed his lead. Once an activity perhaps identified more with pot bellies, motorized carts and cups of beer on the course than physical strength and a good physique, there is now no question that golf has entered the world of a full fledged sport that requires physical training to perform at its best. Golfers on the professional tours look like athletes now, with more and more toned athletic bodies being seen on TV crushing the ball down the longest, most difficult courses in the world. Spending some time in the gym has been shown that it can make as big a difference in a golfer's score as time on the range or putting green. The game itself has changed, and the way players approach it has changed, as well.

What my friends on the golf team did in the high school weight room in the early 80's was primitive to the workout science and programs that are available to golfers now, but they were definitely on to something. One way to look at it was that before it became popular, they were athletes who happened to play golf, and it showed in the length they had off the tee. This athletic approach can be applied to any golfer's game in the present day and immediately improve their ability to play better. With some examination, it is easy to see why.

The golf swing itself is actually an incredibly complex movement that combines virtually every muscle in the body into one coordinated action. The requirements of balance, coordination, flexibility, stability, strength and power all come into play in just one swing. Over the course of a practice session or round, endurance becomes a factor as well. Having some physical fitness in all of these areas can make for a much more effective swing. It is a bit ironic that golf itself does not require you to be in shape to play (unlike running a 10 k race, for example, which needs a level of fitness to even be attempted), nor will it really get you in shape by playing regularly (unless you walk rather than ride a cart). Yet working out overall dramatically increases the ability to perform the golf swing itself. So many players look to the next big expensive driver to add yardage off the tee. Well, what it they could hit it harder by being in better shape, and straighter, too?

To get into the specifics of golf fitness, flexibility is paramount in the modern golf swing. The ability to turn the body through the trunk away from the ball, storing potential energy on the backswing, while maintaining an anchored, solid stance through the legs and hips, is what has been shown to generate the most power. Tiger Woods has a tremendous shoulder turn on his backswing which sets him up to uncoil with great speed through the ball on the downswing.

A person taking golf lessons and attempting to emulate Tiger's shoulder turn typically doesn't even have a body physically capable of doing that motion effectively! They may be taking lessons, yet are prevented from practicing the motion that they are learning by a lack of flexibility and fitness in the muscles of the trunk and back. Only by improving their fitness in these areas through proper training can they then expect to perform the proper motion.

In addition to flexibility, core strength and stability throughout the body are essential as well. These fitness terms refer to the body's strength in the trunk and the ability of the muscles of the entire body to operate in a coordinated, athletic way, which provide a stable "platform" in the body for hitting the golf ball. The more coordinated and stable the body is, the less motion is wasted during the swing and the more effort goes straight into hitting the ball where it is meant to go.

After flexibility is attained and a good amount of core strength and stability as well, more basic strength can then be added into a fitness routine. This could be along the lines of the classic term "lifting weights" that my high school buddies wanted me to do. A flexible and stable body that gets stronger, as long as the flexibility is not lost, can add significantly more effort to the golf swing, especially in situations where the ball may be in the rough or have a lie that requires more effort than the typical swing. I
f you watched Tiger Woods during the US Open in June, 2007, his physique from his fitness routine looked more muscular than ever, yet was very flexible. There were comments from the TV announcers many times on the level of his fitness and how it played out in making his game more effective. He is quite capable of hitting shots no one else on earth can because of his fitness level. As a result, he has more shots available to him to help him score.

So we know now how fitness has changed the game of golf and what is available to the player who chooses to add more fitness to their routine and golf game. Anyone can benefit from some exercise that is golf specific, and can participate at the level that they want. A person doesn't have to workout like Tiger Woods to get better. Sometimes even just working out regularly itself can make all the difference.

Basis Golf Etiquette

2010-02-01T17:01:00.000-08:00

Basis Golf Etiquette

The Golf is considered a gentleman's game and since this is so, exact policy of etiquette in playing apply. Even though these are not hard and fast rules, they show that the person practicing these has respect not only for other golfers, but also for the game itself.

Here are just some general policies of golf etiquette practiced at all levels whether they're amateur or professional. It is then followed by some certain rules at particular times throughout a game.

The Quiet
- Keeping quiet as a person steps up to the ball is a sign of respect for the player as you are allow him/her to concentrate.
- A golf course is not a race track. Do not run as this will distract and bother other players.

The Safety
- Before swinging, always check for other people or objects in the area your ball will be going. Others may not see you approaching with a shot. Make sure they are out of range..
- Similarly, it is not only unsafe to take practice swings in someone's direction, it is also considered rude.
- Make sure people are not walking around before you swing and stand still when others are swinging.

The Pacing
- When you and your group may not be the only players on a course, try to keep your pace of play at a rate that keeps up with the group ahead of you to avoid holding up the ones behind.
- It is very, very rude to advance into the group playing ahead of you. If it was accidental, you would have failed to observed safety etiquette. If it was intentional and you did so because they are playing slowly, it is still no reason to drive a ball in their direction.
- When you need to play through a group, observe common courtesy by first asking permission to do so. But before asking, make sure that the next hole is vacant so that there is enough space between groups as you pass through.
- If the group allows you to play through, take the least amount of time to finish the hole and move on to the next one as quickly as possible.

When on the teeing ground
-Try to stay out of the player's line of sight as well as peripheral vision to allow him to concentrate. Standing behind him/her is the best way to do so, as well as keeping quiet as he/she prepares to swing.

When on the fairway
-hitting some divots is perfectly fine, but avoid causing too many. Furthermore, try to put a few back in by simply stepping on the divot into the hole.
-don't take too much time looking for a lost ball. The group behind you may not appreciate the delay. If it can't be found within a few minutes, simply replace the ball.

When on the bunker
-use the course-provided rake when you've finished with your shot to rake out marks left by you, your ball and your footprints, then leave the rake outside the bunker handle parallel to the fairway.

When on the green
-avoid stepping on the ball paths of other players as this can affect the putt. Walk behind the ball on its direction to the hole or at least step over the imaginary line between the ball and the hole.
-repair ball marks made by the force of the ball landing on the green. This shows courtesy to the player following you as you've taken the time to leave them an unmarked green.
-put your ball back on the green before picking up the ball marker just so you can avoid possible points of contention between another player as to whether you've properly positioned your ball or not.

When at the practice grounds
-continue to observe the general rules of golf etiquette as you would on the course.

Though these are not all of the good golfing etiquette practices, they are the basics you need to follow for each other's safety and love of the game. This will keep the experience all the more pleasant for all concerned.

Attaining The Perfect Golf Swing

2010-02-01T16:58:00.000-08:00

Attaining The Perfect Golf Swing

The game of golf has a Holy Grail, a mythical thing that everyone is searching for but nobody ever seems to find: the perfect golf swing. The reason for this is simply that there is no such thing as a perfect golf swing. Each person is different, and so the swing style that is right for them will vary somewhat. However, there are a few basics that when applied can dramatically improve your golf swing.

There is no doubt that a professional golf swing is at the heart of the game and it is not possible to expect to play a reasonably good game of golf if one is not able to produce a consistent and good professional golf swing. Golf specific exercises play a key role in helping any golfer dramatically improve on their game quicker and perfect various aspects of their game much more rapidly, such as the golf swing plane.

The Swing Plane

The swing plane represents the path on which your golf club should travel upon during the swing. A good swing plane is vital if you want to be a consistent golfer. The idea that separates the high handicapper and low handicapper is usually the ability to rotate your body, keeping the club on a consistent swing plane.

One of the easiest ways to analyze your swing plane is have someone film you. A more high tech way to assist you in correcting your swing plane is a laser light that fits onto the end of the club handle. A swing trainer can also help you with your swing plane. Don't try to force the club into the correct swing plane, as this is counter-productive.

The Swing Speed

When it comes to swing speed some players just cannot swing the golf club very quickly. It takes an optimum level of strength to produce a high enough swing speed to hit the ball the correct distances. Using a golf training club is one of the most effective ways to increase golf swing speed and power. The Speed Stik Golf Swing Trainer is one of the better golf swing trainers available on the market today.

Developing core strength is important for increasing golf power levels and swing speed, which is why the proper exercise is also very important to improving your swing.

The Swing Exercises

When you are implementing a golf fitness exercise into your golf swing improvement program, you must be able to place the body in the correct starting position of the exercise. It is a proven fact that muscles used in the golf swing that are not exercised and conditioned on a regular basis with the correct exercise will usually not respond to the correct golfing techniques.

Most of the touring pros are now using exercise for golf to strengthen their swing and have seen their driving distance go way up. I can’t tell you how many golfers have emailed me telling me their amazing improvements in power, distance and accuracy from using exercise for golf to strengthen their swing.

The power exercise in the golf swing can also tremendously improve on the enjoyment of the game by eliminating pain, even as your body is strengthened to play a better game. Failure to execute a proper golf swing has even been responsible for numerous nagging injuries many golfers suffer, which further hampers their game.

There is no Holy Grail, no perfect golf swing, but there are three fundamental improvements that can be made: in the swing plane, swing speed, and regularly engaging in swing exercises. If you are careful to pay attention to each of these three aspects of swing training, you are sure to see significant improvements in your golf game.

Golf Training Aids

2010-01-16T17:25:00.000-08:00

Golf Training Aids

Are they any good for a new golfer?

Some golfers take up the game after they retire from more strenuous ball games such as baseball, football, soccer or cricket. I mean after playing in a game were a bowler or pitcher is sending a ball towards you at a high sped and you are expected to hit it out of sight how difficult can golf be?

Go to a driving range just for a quick practice before launching yourself on your local golf club. And you suddenly discover the game is not quite so easy as it appears. The ball has an annoying habit of not going where you want it too. It may slice to the right or hook to the left; even more embarrassingly it may just roll a few feet forward as you hit your divot further than the ball.

The sensible thing at this point is to book a series of lessons with a club pro. But you’re a golfer now, so commonsense tends to go out of the window. Instead you look through the golf magazines and find advertisements for a whole host of training aids that are going to sort out every aspect of your game.

There are training aids that will improve your swing, stance and your alignment. Nets and buckets that it is claimed will make you the best short game player in your club.

It's fortunate for the manufacturers of these training aids that golfers tend to spend more money on their game than almost any other sportsmen or women.
Because training aids do not tend to come cheaply and you can spend a great deal of money on some of these tools and devices.

The Golf training aids have a place to play in many golfers development but they should be used after you have learnt the basics from a skilled trainer such as your club professional.
Teach yourself golf and you not only have an idiot for an instructor but you will ingrain faults into your game that will be difficult to eradicate later down the line when you want to improve your game.

Rules and Regulations of Golf

2010-01-16T17:22:00.002-08:00

The Rules and The Regulations of Golf

The Golf without rules and regulations there is no game. Every game has its own rules and regulations. The rules of golf {2} {3} are internationally standardized and are jointly governed by the royal and ancient golf club of st.andrews, which was founded in 1754 and the united states of golf association. After the agreement with R&A, USGA jurisdiction on the enforcement and interpretation of the rules is limited to the United States and Mexico. Canada has the separate royal Canadian golf association, but generally follows the lead of the two larger bodies. The rules of golf continue to evolve, and every four years, the amended versions of the rule book are published. Any brand of Golf Equipments can be used. But it is better to go in for Good brands of Golf Equipments

The rules are made keeping in mind “fairness”. There are few statements stated “play the ball as it lies”, “play the course as you find it”, and “if you can’t do either, do what is fair”. Some rules that are stated:

• Every player is entitled and obliged to play the ball from position where it has come to rest after the stroke, unless a rule allows or demands otherwise

• A player must not accept assistance in making a stroke.

• The condition of the ground or other parts of the country may not be altered to gain an advantage except some cases defined in the rules.

• A Golf ball may only be replaced by another during play of a hole if it is destroyed (rule 5-3), lost (rule 27-1), or unplayable (rule 28), or at some other time permitted by the rules. The player may always substitute balls between the play of two books.

The decisions on the rules of golf are based on formal case decisions by the R&A and USGA and are revised updated every other year.

The Amateur golfers:

There are strict regulations regarding the amateur status of golfers. Anybody who played golf for money or who has ever received payment or compensation for giving instruction in golf game will not be considered an amateur. He may not be allowed to participate in competitions limited only to amateur only non-cash prizes won in competition may be accepted within the limits established by the rules of amateur status.

Golf course architecture and design:

There are many kinds of golf courses. Each country has one kind of golf course. It varies according to the climate, etc.

The different kind of golf courses:

• Link courses
• Parkland courses
• Heath land
• Desert courses
• Browns courses
• Sand courses
• Snow courses
• Par 3 courses
• Executive courses.

1. Links courses: this is the most traditional type of golf course. It is located in the coastal areas, on sandy soil, often amid dunes, with few artificial hazards and few trees if any.

2. Parkland courses: this happens to be in typical inland courses, they often resemble British parks.

3. Heath land: this means less manicured and more open area. They often feature gorse and heather and typically less trees.

4. Desert courses: this course has been recently started in Australia and parts of USA and Middle East. It’s a new invention.

5. Browns courses: akin to sand courses, but not much involved in terms of using layers of tar and gavel below the sandy surface layer, to give firmness and support and ensure a consistent bounce/roll.

6. Sand courses: instead of heavily irrigated green, the players play on sand unlike most golf players. Holes are less involved than browns courses. And are only for the casual golfer.

7. Snow courses: can be played in arctic or sub arctic regions during winter. This is a recent invention. Golf is played on snow, typically with an orange colored or any brightly colored ball.

8. Par 3 courses: this course consists entirely of holes with par 3. These are considered a good test of iron shot precision and short game, as the driver is rarely used.

9. Executive courses: the course is generally smaller than the typical 18 hole course.

Teaching Children to play Golf

2010-01-16T17:22:00.001-08:00

Teaching Children to play Golf

You think your little guy might be the next Tiger Woods? If you think your child has a propensity for golf, or if you have a love for the game that you want to share, how can you best teach your youngster the game?
How can you tell that they are ready to learn?
What age is best to start a child on learning golf if you want to develop a quality player?

Golf, a detailed and complex sport, can be tough to teach to kids. For this reason, get them started early and ensure that you build a firm foundation in their gameplay so that they learn to be confident in the sport and in their own abilities. This type of learned confidence can help them embrace the complexities of the game as a whole and will turn them into golfers that are ready to learn.

Once a child is walking well independently and able to hold a child-sized golf club, he or she is probably ready for the first introduction to the sport. This can happen when the child is as young as two or three years old. Preschool children will not be ready to play golf as a game, but they can be given small putters and practice swinging the club correctly.

The children at this age learn almost everything through imitation.
The best way to teach them proper swinging and putting techniques is to demonstrate, and then have them imitate the motions.
However use caution that you do not make this tedious for the child. These imitation sessions should be short and fun.
Try having the child hit a small balloon. Not only will this be fun, but the child will also have success in hitting the balloon, which will keep the frustration at bay. To make it even more fun, try filling the balloons with water for added resistance! This is a great summer time activity for you and for your child!

Once the child has entered school and has a good handle on the swinging and putting techniques learned through observation, it is time to start teaching the game of golf. School aged children are accustomed to verbal instruction and can listen to explanations about the game better than their preschool counterparts. You need to keep in mind, however, that they are still children! They will thrive on encouragement, and all teaching sessions should be kept upbeat!

Start by taking your child to the driving range. Show your son or daughter how to hit the ball correctly, aiming for distance. The driving range is a good place to start since there is not a specific target they must reach, so the child is less likely to get frustrated. After the child demonstrates aptitude on the driving range, you can head to the course. By this point you should be able to tell whether or not your child is going to share your love for the game of golf.

The parents need to remember that no matter how hard they try, not all children have the same likes and dislikes that their parents have. If you have introduced your child to the game of golf, and he or she does not enjoy it, try not to push them. By pushing, you might find that you drive your child away from the game. All you can do is give them the experience at an early age, and they must come to a conclusion about the game on their own.

What A Great Life...

2010-01-16T17:17:00.000-08:00

What A Great Life!

The idea of spending all of your time on the greens is your idea of paradise on earth. Perhaps all of those Saturdays playing your favorite game aren't enough anymore. For people with this deep love of the game, considering a career in the golf industry may be a perfect fit. Like any other sports industry, golf jobs run the gauntlet from caddy to CEO of major companies.

A lot of people, such as students and retirees, have found ways to use their passion to their benefit. Some work as caddies or grounds keepers to receive paychecks and possibly the perk benefit of reduced or free golf time.
These golf jobs work well for individuals who need to have flexible schedules to fit around classes, another full time job, or to leave time to enjoy retirement.
Choosing to work at the local golf course or driving range is an excellent way to combine a favorite hobby with a paycheck.

Sporting goods stores are another great place to combine the love of money with the love of golf. Especially during the holidays and peak golf times, these stores are more than happy to have knowledgeable people ready to assist their golf challenged clients.
Besides the paycheck, another benefit could be employee discounts of merchandise that would otherwise be difficult or even impossible to afford.
Of course on the other hand, an awesome golf job would be to own your own golf store. However, the area you live in must be suitable for a profitable establishment if you choose to own your own store.
Some of the fringe benefits of this golf job are having the opportunity to choose specific products and meet a lot of other people who live, breathe, eat, and sleep golf too.

For the outgoing type of golf lover a career in sales may be the way to go. Whether you decide to go to work for your local golfing store selling directly to the public or apply with one of the larger manufacturers and distributors of golfing equipment and sell to stores, this golf job would offer the same benefits as sales positions in other industries.
A competitive wages, health benefits, 401K, you know, all of that important stuff.
Who knows where networking within the job may lead? Perk benefits like free golf time, free or discounted golf equipment, and possibly meeting some pros of the game are all possible.
Merging your knowledge of golf with a golf job is a great method for thriving in your job and making ends meet at the same time.

Another often overlooked golf job that may be suitable, especially for the literary gifted, would be a sports writer. There are a huge number of websites geared toward sports and specifically golf on the Internet. Those great articles come from writers.
If you think you have the right stuff for golf writing, contact the editor or webmaster and pitch your ideas. You never know how things like that will turn out and you may end up with a unique, golf job that fits perfectly within your schedule. While the Internet is probably the fastest means to a golf writing job, don't forget about the more traditional magazine publications.
You will just need to check out their submission guidelines in the magazine itself, on their website, or by letter to find out the editor's name and submission preferences.

Find The Best Possible Golf Career For Your Needs

2010-01-16T17:16:00.000-08:00

Find The Best Possible Golf Career For Your Needs

There is barely a golfer in the world that wouldn't trade in their day job to get paid to be on the course all day long. However, most do not realize that obtaining a golf career is actually not as difficult as they might originally believe it to be.
You don't have to be a professional on the PGA circuit to enjoy all of the freedoms and fun of a career in your favorite sport.

There is a wide array of opportunities right from the beginning golfer all the way up to the pofessionals. Ideally, most would want to have a career simply playing golf.
Though this is entirely possibly, it is advisable to discover if the idea is plausible before going ahead full steam.
Perhaps you could start by playing in a few tournaments with cash prizes.
If things go well and you end up with some money in your pocket, perhaps a career as a professional golfer isn't all that impossible.
However, most golfers don't quite have the stuff to be able to compete for money.
Thankfully, there are a lot of other golf careers that will keep you involved in the game even when you're not even on the course.

The one thing to consider is to become a golf pro. If your friends are always remarking that you have the perfect swing or how your drives always reach a far distance and are always straight away, then a golf career as a golf professional may be the perfect choice for you.
This is also a very flexible job because you decide how many hours you work per week.
You could either do a few lessons a week just for supplementary income at the start and once your client base gets big enough, you could start doing it full time. The best advertising is word of mouth, so if your clients are happy with your service they will undoubtedly inform their friends and family as well.

There is a wide variety of careers that involve the retail aspect of golf. You could start your own golf specialty store, which would keep you surrounded in golf gear every day and talking about golf to your hearts content.
There is a booming industry presently with imprinted golf balls, which is a business that you can run directly from your own home. A lot of people are searching for golf balls with team logos, pictures of family or slogans emblazoned on them.
The technology is a bit expensive at the beginning but all you would need to sell your items is a website.
There is such a wide variety of golf careers that if you decide you want to work with golf full time, you shouldn't have a problem finding a suitable career.

The golf career doing maintenance on your favorite course will keep you on the grounds all day.
Most people that work directly for the golf course either get to play for free, or at a discounted rate. If you have a love for golf, there is sure to be a golf career out there that fits perfectly with your talents. Whether as a golf pro, a retailer, a groundskeeper or even a professional golfer, the options are basically unlimited.
So don't be intimidated by those who say you could never have a full time career in golf.
Prove them wrong by landing the job of your dreams.

Golf Instruction On A Budget

2010-01-16T17:15:00.000-08:00

Golf Instruction On A Budget

It must be nice to drive around in a little golf cart and play the perfect game on a perfect green. The golfers everywhere are envying you as we speak. What's that? You aren't driving around in a cute little cart or playing a perfect game? And no one is envious of your supremely skilled game? One would assume that means Tiger Woods isn't on hold on line 2 then.
Odds are good that Tiger is never going to be eagerly awaiting your call, but that doesn't mean that with effective golf instruction you can't be the envy of the green.

Let's face it; most of us can't afford private lessons with a pro or even with the local country club's golf instructor. Knowing where to look and what to look for go a long way in finding help with golf instruction however.
It doesn't matter if you play on the finest golf courses in the world or join up with your buddies occasionally for a round on the local public course.
In this era of high speed information the tips, hints, and techniques used by golf pros can be at your fingertips.

Finding advice on golf instruction is simple really.
Books and magazines are printed by the hundreds on this very subject. Either one would be an excellent addition to your birthday or Christmas wish list.
It is a good bet that your significant other would be delighted with an original gift idea and at the same time give themselves the gift of not hearing you lament your golf game anymore.
Check out the library for a selection of books that highlight every different aspect of the game of golf. This technique will save you bundles on your bill at the local bookstore.
Another way the library can be useful in finding golf instruction is in their DVD department.
Check out the ones that seem interesting. The DVDs you find especially helpful can always be purchased later.
When your golf skills dramatically improve all your friends will think you spent a mint on private lessons. They'll be so jealous.

While talking about acquiring golf instruction on a budget, don't underestimate the usefulness of friends and family. If golf is a family passion, maybe Mom or Dad has some helpful hints that you overlooked.
And the friend you are always trying to impress with your game may be the perfect instructor.
You can always sway him by stating the obvious, if he helps you, just maybe he will at least have a little competition the next time the two of you hit the greens together.
That should be enough to encourage some cooperation.

The information highway is the place to go for information on all kinds of subjects. You already pay for your Internet connection, make it earn its keep. There are countless websites and forums dedicated to the game of golf and many of them offer tips on a wide variety of golfing issues.
For example, you can learn the best clubs to use for each shot and how to factor weather conditions into your game. This is seriously some useful golf instruction. Your budget will love you because you are using a resource that is already paid for.

When a lot of people think about golf instruction it is rarely associated with inexpensive. Considering that golf course time, the equipment, and golfing extras tend to cost so much, budget golf instruction is the way to go.
Who knows? Before long maybe Tiger will be calling, or maybe not.

Basis Golf Etiquette

2010-01-16T15:13:00.000-08:00

Basis Golf Etiquette

Do The Golf Swing Aids Really Help Improve Your Golf Swing?

2010-01-16T15:12:00.002-08:00

Do The Golf Swing Aids Really Help Improve Your Golf Swing?

The Golf swing aids haven't always had the best reputation in the golfing industry.
Upon first hitting the scene, they were viewed as little more than gimmicks, making the user look silly while using or wearing them, and providing no real benefits.
As the game has evolved globally, taking on more and more players at a rapid rate, the technology surrounding golf has also improved quite a bit, and this extends to golf swing aids, which have shed their dubious skin to attain a well-respected position in the golfing world as valuable teaching tools.

For a sport as technically demanding as golf is, arguably the most technical and challenging in the world, it's not a surprise that players of all skill levels can benefit from devices which help spotlight weaknesses in their game and shore them up.
The golf swing is an intricate mechanic, but for all that intricacy, it very much becomes rote to the body, which can reproduce the exact same swing mechanics repeatedly through muscle memory.
This is perfect when you have a good swing, but if your swing is less than stellar, this can cause obvious dilemmas. How do you correct flaws in a swing that's so ingrained, it performs of its own accord?

The answer is to use swing aids which force the user into correct positions.
The body has no choice but to adapt the new positions, and through enough use, this new form will eventually take the place of the old, giving the user the ability to successfully reproduce without the help of the aid.
These aids can extend to all areas of the swing, be it the swing plane itself, the positioning of the hands and wrists, proper alignment with the ball and target, and much more.

The first step in determining which golf swing aid would be of the most use to you is to identify where your trouble areas are.
A second set of eyes is useful in this situation, be it a friend or family member, or a golfing instructor.
Another possible method is to record video of yourself from different angles during your swing, so you can see your motion in a different light.

Once you know your weaknesses, you can look into a beneficial golf aid which targets that weakness.
Take the time to read up on the different products, and especially the reviews of those products from other golfers to determine which one sounds right for you.
Most golf swing aids are available for purchase online, often at a fraction of the price of what you'd pay at a pro shop of sporting goods store.
Be sure to share your experience with the device with other golfers as well, so they know which products are worth their weight in golf balls. Your golfing buddies on the other hand, well, we'll leave that up to you.
Bragging rights go a long way on and off the golf course, and it may be that some things are better kept secret from your friends.

Fitness for the Average Golfer

2010-01-16T15:12:00.001-08:00

Fitness for the Average Golfer

Now days, a more careful look at the professional golf ranks will reveal many well-conditioned people.
Such conditioning is needed to perform consistently well at a high level.
After all, it isn't often noted, but the golf swing is an intensely athletic motion. Some professional golfers don't look like athletes, the fact remains that golfers are athletes.

Given that fact, even the most casual golfer who incorporates the simplest of exercises can help himself or herself shave strokes off the handicap, and maybe a few inches off the waist.

A golf analysis company based in Germany, Golf Biodynamics, conducted a study using twenty-eight weekend golfers.
They were introduced to an eight-week, “five-column” workout plan.
The five columns were different sets of exercises that concentrated on five different fitness-related aspects of golf – coordination, balance, strength, the swing itself, and flexibility.

The results of the study were overwhelming.
The group as a whole experienced an increase in upper-body rotation and an 80 percent gain in upper-body strength.
The stability of their hip rotation also increased, resulting in a more controlled swing, and their collective clubhead speed increased by 9.4 percent. Think they’re having fun knocking their drives past their playing partners now?

As with any workout regimen, the older a person gets, the harder it is to see results.
The younger golfers and women, all with lower handicaps, saw more immediate results on the golf course.
But seniors and bogey golfers can take heart; the sport is a game of inches.
The slightest change any golfer makes can have a significant impact in her game, and will help avoid back pain, knee pain, and other health problems many middle-aged to senior golfers experience.

Golf Ball Speed And How It Effects You

2010-01-16T15:11:00.000-08:00

Golf Ball Speed And How It Effects You

Everybody wants to hit the golf ball farther.

The golf instructors understand the relationship between distance and golf ball speed and are turning to launch monitors and other types of golf ball tracking technology.
The Golf launch monitors can be simple and affordable to very complex and cost thousands of dollars.

Learning about golf ball speed, depending on the launch monitor the club fitter is using they can also learn information about the spin rate of the golf ball, launch angle and carry distance.
Doppler radar is used in some of the least expensive units to track the flight of the golf ball.

The Golf ball speed is determined by a simple equation. The easy equation is that your golf ball speed is equal to one and a half times your club head speed. For example if you have a golf swing speed of 100mph then your golf ball speed will be 150mph.
Another example would be the television announcers over the weekend said the PGA Tour average club head speed is 112 mph. The equates to 168mph golf ball speed.

What is going on have you lost distance?

Every 25 degree drop in temperature the ball will fly approximately eight yards shorter than before.

With all of the new technology available to the golf world, it has never been a more interesting time to try to improve and learn about your game.
The great way to do that is through a golf club fitting with a launch monitor.
Since the technology is becoming more affordable, golf players are purchasing a personal launch monitor to help themselves with improving their very own game. You can!

Golf Swing Tempo vs Golf Swing Speed

2010-01-16T15:09:00.000-08:00

Golf Swing Tempo vs Golf Swing Speed

Is that your golf swing too fast?

It's not the speed, but the tempo, Golf Swing Speed and Golf Swing Tempo are fundamentally different.

Very often a golfers swing can appear extremely fast, because they don't have the correct swing tempo.
They usually have a very deliberate take away and back swing, where they are trying to 'Place' the club head in the correct position. There may even be a deliberate pause at the top.

About Golf Swing Tempo, that start to talk about components of the swing.
Swing plane, take away, ball position, alignment. These are fundamentals and separate parts of the swing.
These are the individual parts that you learn, which when combined, give you a complete golf swing.

The Golf swing tempo, is the glue that holds all of these constituent parts together.
In fact, the more you swing, with the correct swing tempo, the more stable all of those swing components become.

So what is Swing Speed? Well it's simply the amount of time you take to get from the start of your takeaway to the point of impact.
But let's say for simplicity sake, that for you, this takes 4 seconds. If you take 2 seconds getting to the top of your back swing and then 2 seconds getting the club head to the ball, you really are not going to generate any club head speed.

So what is Swing Tempo? Let's take the same 4 second swing,

This time you take 3 Seconds getting to the top, but 1 second on the way down, and what do you have? Well you have a very slow swing, but you have PERFECT Golf Swing Tempo.
Why?
Because all PRO's swing at this exact tempo ratio. 3 To 1. So you can swing as fast as you like.
As long as you do it using the 3 to 1 ratio.
All you have to do is achieve this tempo using one of the many training aids available.
Most of which are audio cue devices. When you do what you will find, is that you will swing faster than you ever have, but with a tempo and a consistency, that is going to stay solid throughout your next round of golf.
When you use one of these aids, your mind tends to focus on waiting for an audio cue, which eliminates those mind games you tend to start playing when you are addressing the ball.
You know, the ones that get you all tensed up and anxious, the ones that took away any chance you ever had of a good smooth swing tempo.

Golfing Success

2010-01-16T15:07:00.000-08:00

Golfing Success - A Life Learning Experience

The golfing success is a life learning experience. You can learn a lot about life when you play golf.
You can learn a lot about yourself from golf.
If you cheat or blow up when things are not going your way, such as getting a bad break, you will most likely demonstrate similar behaviors in life. Therefore, golfing success reflects your life learning experience.

A life is a game, and so is golf. You have twists and turns (In life) and you just have to meander your way through; likewise, in golf, you also get good breaks as well as bad ones, and you just have to learn to deal with them.
Golfing success mirrors your life learning experience.

If you can begin another day - not to mention that you can play on the green.
Accept the fact that during the day, you may have joys, disappointments, and surprises. Learn to accept what is being offered to you, and embrace the good as well as the bad. This is the way of Zen, and this is how you should play Zen golf, which brings about golfing success.

If you regard playing golf as a life learning experience, then you will learn and improve your sport. Golfing success is within your reach.

In golf as in life, to achieve anything, you need to set goals.
For golfing success, set some smart learning goals
In golf, there is the 80/20 rule: 80 percent of your improvement comes from only 20 percent of what you have learned or improved.
In other words, you don't need to know everything to attain golfing success. It is like driving a car - you meed to know the basics of driving, but you need not know how a car engine operates.

To improve your game for golfing success, focus on only a few major areas.
Like living, if you worry about everything or worry too much, you will end up not enjoying your life at all. Living becomes stressful. Similarly, in golf, if you strive to analyze every situation, or worry too much about how to execute a stroke, analysis will become paralysis.

Get yourself a good address position. You maintain a good stance and proper posture. Then you turn away from the ball on your backswing that stores up energy. Finally, you release your stored-up energy with a good forward swing that propels the ball to the target. To play good golf all you have to do is grip it, turn it, and release it.

But you become your own coach. As you continue to play, if you are mindful of your need to know and to learn the basics, you will improve your game. You will ultimately attain your golfing success.

A good instructor can do only so much: you have to learn on your own, especially how to master golfing techniques for golfing success. Naturally, a good instructor should tell you what to do and why you should do it in that particular manner.
Then the instructor should be able to demonstrate to you how to do it properly.
Finally, your instructor should allow you to "experience" the feel of that newly acquired technique.

Therefore, playing golf is always a life learning experience if you are made aware of what you need to do. Golf is a 80/20 game for golfing success.

Handicapping for Casual Golfers

2010-01-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

Handicapping for Casual Golfers

The Golf handicaps are used to make the game of golf more competitive for golfers with different skill levels.

There is a standard system of handicapping that is used for tournament play on all golf courses.
The system is quite complicated and takes into account the golfers average score, the course ratings (total par for the course) for the courses played and the slope rating (course difficulty) for each course played.
The computer software is used for this calculation and this system is always used to establish your official handicap.

Non-tournament golf play where the players have not established an official handicap,

The unofficial system that quite useful:

1. Keep track of your score and the course rating (total par for the course) every time you play golf.

2. Take the difference between your score and the course rating.

3. Calculate the average of the 10 best of your last 20 differences (or the best half of the differences you have recorded if less than 20) and multiply by 96% (drop everything after the 1st decimal place). The maximum allowable handicap is 36 .4 for men and 40.4 for women

4. Compare the result with the other golfers who are playing.

5. The lowest average receives no handicap. All other golfers have a handicap which is the difference between their average and the lowest average.

6. Each player subtracts their handicap from their total score to determine the winner

7. The group could agree on whether to do the above calculations using the gross score or adjusted gross score

The gross score is the total strokes for 18 holes. The adjusted gross score places a cap on the number of strokes counted on any hole for handicapping purposes to eliminate the effect of a disaster hole when calculating a handicap.

Four Basics of Any Golf Swing

2010-01-16T15:04:00.000-08:00

The Four Basics of Any Golf Swing

When thinking about the basics of the golf swing, we usually think about ball position, stance, grip, and so on. In other words, we think about the swing's physical mechanics. That's only natural, because its what most golf pros focus on in their golf lessons and what golf magazines highlight in their articles on the golf swing. It's what I write about the most in the golf tips as well.

Not everyone agrees that these are the true basics of the golf swing. For many, the true basics of the swing are something quite different, something that has nothing to do with the physical mechanics of the swing. For these people, a swing's true basics are four components-plane, centering, radius, and face. Golf instruction sessions focusing on these concepts are as helpful as golf lessons on the swing's mechanics, maybe even more helpful

The Plane
The Most golfers have heard of the concept of plane, but are confused as to how it applies to the golf swing. Plane is defined by the angle your club creates when it is ground at address. To master accuracy, the club must remain on this plane, especially while it approaches the ball on the downswing. (Actually, two planes-one formed by the takeaway and the other by the downswing-are involved in swinging a club, but the second plane is key.) This plane is the most powerful and direct route to the swing, as I discuss in my golf tips. Coming back to the ball above or below this plane results in pulls and slices.

The Centering
Every swing has a center to it, a foundation defined by your head and your spine. If you want to hit accurate golf shots, this foundation must remain steady. Watch Tiger or any of the pros on TV and you'll see how steady their heads and spines remain throughout their swings. This foundation has two angles to it. One is the angle your spine creates with your hips at address. The other involves the lateral movement of your head. Focus on preventing both your head from moving unnaturally one way or the other and your spine from moving up or down, and you will produce better results.

The Radius
Radius is the distance between the lead shoulder and the clubhead. You must keep radius intact, if you want to hit good quality shots. The key is releasing your wrists at the right time. Most amateurs release their wrists early, forcing the shaft ahead of the lead arm before impact. An early release causes you to hit the ball thin, or even worse, mis-hit it altogether. If you execute the proper sequence of movements in the downswing, you'll maintain radius.

The Face
The ball travels in the direction in which your clubface is pointing at the moment of impact, minus the effect of sidespin. You must attain the same clubface position at impact that you establish at address, which is why you need to align your club properly. The key to doing this is matching the position of your hands at impact with the position of your hands at address. If you grip the club on the right side of the shaft, your hands must be on the right side of the club when you hit the ball; otherwise, you'll mis-hit.

The Conclusion
Is one basic more important than another? Not really, as I tell players who take my golf lessons. They all must be executed properly, if you want to achieve a powerful, repeatable swing. Now that you are aware of them and how they contribute to your swing, try filming yourself some day and see how well you maintain them during your swing. Also note how well you hit the ball.

Plane, centering, radius, and face-these aren't the usual basics you talk about when discussing the golf swing, but they are critical. While the physical mechanics of the swing, like ball position, stance, and grip, are key, so are these four components. Master both sets and you'll achieve accuracy and consistency every time, lowering your golf handicap in the process.