Even if you purchase the most expensive golf equipment in the world and you plan to play on the finest golf courses in the country, it is nothing without the other side of the equation: quality golf instruction. I cannot emphasize good golf lessons for the beginner.

Those lessons may be public group lessons (at a large discount) or private lessons with a local course pro. A combination of both public and private is the best way to go because you get to struggle with others (as they struggle) and you get a chance to zoom in on your playing weaknesses and tendencies.

Taking quality private lessons from a professional has enormous advantages: let’s be honest, if you are paying anywhere from $45-125 per hour to learn how to play a little game, you will do what you can on the side to improve your skill. A professional (even one from the local course) can take you further than a family member or friend could ever take you (though their help is appreciated as well).

Secondly, the local professional can critique your game objectively on the course. Your friends and family will not be as patient after the twentieth or thirtieth time they correct you (in normal relationships). Also, the pro will hone your strengths while getting you over the hump of your weaknesses. Being encouraged by a professional goes further than your long and straight drive when it comes to building your confidence in this game.

Thirdly, the pro you choose is an experienced professional. This is the profession he has chosen to excel in. He’s good at the game and he teaches others for a living; that should say something. The local course pro has been good enough to be called a professional, so that person had to be good (if you don’t think the value for your money’s, select someone else).

There are a whole host of instructors who would be willing to teach beginning golfers the art and skill of driving a ball 250 yards or chipping the ball out of the bunker. To be fair, though, not all pros are good teachers, and that’s something you will need to think about too.

Lastly, a pro will help you with your stance, grip, swing, control, follow through, aim, strategy, club selection, and game psychology. You will be able to enjoy the game more fully. The professional instructor is normally worth the extra money you spend to learn the game.

Budget a quality golf professional into the game strategy when you’re first learning how to play. He (or she) is a welcome addition to the golf gear you have so carefully placed in your designer bag.

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