Golf is a strategic sport that people of all ages can enjoy. If you're just starting out, this guide will introduce you to the basic rules, techniques, and skills involved in golf. From the initial swing to gaining confidence in the course, we’ll support new players throughout the process. Let’s understand and learn the basics of the golf world!

Basic Golf Rules For Beginners

Golf usually features 18 holes, each with its own distinct layout and par score. The par score indicates the number of strokes a player should ideally take to complete the hole, typically ranging from 3 to 5 strokes. If golfers finish with fewer strokes than par, it’s referred to as a "birdie," while exceeding the par results in a "bogey." Each hole begins at the tee box, where you place the ball on a tee for the first shot.

The area that follows the tee box is called the fairway, which assists players in striking the ball. The final section of the hole is the green, where the goal is to sink the ball into the hole. Once the ball is on the green, athletes need to put it, which involves hitting the ball into the hole. There are also specific areas on the golf course known as hazards, where additional strokes are added if the ball lands there, such as water hazards and sand traps. Understanding match play rules and winning tactics is crucial to enjoying golf for kids, making it more accessible and fun to participate.

Important Gear For Kids To Start

There is no need to buy a complete set of gear for players just starting out. A simple children's golf kit will be enough, such as:

• Golf Clubs: A driver, putter, and a few irons and wedges. Sets for young golfers are made to suit the height and power of kids.
• Golf Balls: Beginner golfers should use light and soft balls.
• Golf Tee: This lifts the ball off the ground to make hitting easier.
• Comfy Golf Shoes: These should give good traction and feel nice as kids walk around the course. 

If you're not sure about spending too much, just get a few basic clubs and balls. For new players, having simple know-how and junior golf gear is enough— experience teaches great lessons.

Find Out: 12 Essential Items For Every Golfer.

The Right Stance and Posture for Golf Kids

How children stand and hold themselves in golf plays a big part in success. It is important to know the correct stance, like:

• Foot Placement: Set your feet as wide as the shoulders. This helps children to stay steady and confident.
• Bend Knees: Bend your knees a little, but avoid squatting too much.
• Hold Properly: Hold the golf club, but don't squeeze it too hard.

Kids who are new to golf can get better at their stance and posture through fun drills and easy practice exercises.

Aiming and Hitting the Ball

After getting the stance and grip right, try to aim and hit the ball. This might seem tough for those new to golf, but it gets easier as they practise.

• Keep An Eye on the Ball: Stay focused on the ball while you're swinging.
• Club Swing: Move the club avoiding excess force before ball contact.
• Follow Through: Let your body continue its motion after striking the ball. A proper follow-through improves shot precision.

When teaching golf to kids, emphasise precision and form overpower. Simple engaging exercises work well for young golfers.

Golf Swing Basics

The golf swing is a series of actions. How you set up to hit a golf ball is where 90% of beginners go wrong. When set up, hitting a golf ball becomes much easier. The mechanics of a golf swing look complicated when studying the theory but the game doesn’t have to be this hard. The goals of any new golfer should be:

• To get the ball in the air.
• To hit the ball straight.
• To control the distance.

Just master three simple steps called G-A-P (grip, aim, posture) If juniors get these three basics of the swing right they’ll be hitting good golf shots.

Also Check: How To Shape The Perfect Golf Shot.

Basic Shots To Know For Beginner Golfers

From the powerful drive tee shot to the precise putt shot, every hit plays a crucial role in striking perfect rounds. Learn the basic golf shots important for juniors:

Drive Shot

The drive is the first shot that beginner players must learn for a well-rounded game. It is used when a player is playing from the tee box. Of all the basic shots, this is the most effective when it comes to striking truly far, and this is very common on par 4 and par 5 holes.

Iron Shot

Iron Shot will mostly be played after reaching the fairway. This type of shot is aimed to get the ball in some mid-range distances. With the use of irons, newbies are able to control how far the ball goes and how high it goes to be able to bring it closer to the green.

Chip Shot

Then comes the chip shot when the ball approaches the green. This is a low-angled shot that brings the ball onto the green in such a way that it is in a position for simple putting. Instead of strength, a chip shot needs accuracy.

Putt Shot

The last but not the least shot is the Putt, a shot played from the green to get the ball in the hole. It requires a great degree of accuracy and concentration. A very small deviation will impact on the overall match score. Children take time and effort to make a successful putt shot.

Etiquette of Golf for Beginners and Kids

Golf is the best way for kids to learn discipline, etiquette, courage, and consistency. Here are important manners to keep in mind while playing on the course:

Refrain from Speaking and be Patient

While golfers are playing their matches, keep quiet and not interrupt them. This is very essential to be observed by beginners as it enables the other golfers to execute their shots without any distractions.

Proudly Accept and Clean the Damage

If the shot hits a golf tee or harms the fairway, it is your responsibility to reconstruct whatever harm you cause. This is to make sure that the course would be pleasant for all.

Do Not Extend the Game Duration

In golf, slow play is annoying because it interrupts the flow of the match rounds. Therefore, the cut time is kept especially when teeing or putting.

Be Nice and Helpful to Each Other

One important thing in any game is the respect and cooperation of the players. The best way is only to pursue friendliness that enhances the game's enjoyment for everyone.

Check Out: Guide To World's Best Golf Academies & Schools.

The Final Words

Golf can be fun and rewarding if youngsters follow some basic rules and techniques. When starting at the tee box, follow proper etiquette which means don’t interrupt other players shots. Stay focused and balanced on the fairway to improve the game and confidence. While getting to the green, take enough time and concentrate on the putting. Above all, remember to enjoy the play and keep practising. With a bit of practice, newbie players can become pros in this great game and appreciate all it has to offer!