Golfing For New Players: Part Three

The term ‘the long game’ is used to refer to the drives (shots off the tee) and fairway shots, which means every shot with the exception of the ones you make to actually get onto the green.

For the reason that each hole has a different difficulty level, a different par and different obstructions, saying that you should use your driver on every tee every time would be totally wrong.

This is something that you will need to learn over time as you learn the various shots you have to make depending on the club, the placement of the ball and your personal style of swing.

Generally speaking, the lower the club number, the longer and lower your ball will fly over the ground. A 4-iron shot will travel a long and low trajectory and will most likely roll on the ground, whereas a 9-iron shot will have much more loft and go less distance both in the air and on the ground.

Don’t the professionals on the television make it look easy? They whack the ball long and straight time after time after time and never slice the ball sending it a sickly eight or nine feet or miss the ball altogether.

Driving is so very important to the game, and many hours spent at the driving range will help improve your distance. You should experiment with the same club to see what works for you if you move the ball forward or backward in your stance. Take a lesson, if possible, and learn the proper swing from the beginning.

You need to get to grips with ‘the long game’ as it will ensure that you get to the green in fewer strokes, which will keep your score level and frustration level down. Bear in mind that it takes a long time to learn to be consistent and also always remember: you’re supposed to be having a good time! So go and enjoy yourself.

Are you new to golf? We have some great tips for the beginner golfer at Golfing Tips for Beginners. This article, Golfing For New Players: Part Three has free reprint rights.