Stepping onto the green for the first time can feel like entering a whole new world.
With the myriad of rules, the fancy clubs, and even the golf lingo, it’s easy to feel lost and maybe even embarrassed.
I remember the first time I thought about getting lessons.
I just finished my third round of golf…
In my first round, I shot a 140+ (we had a double-par limit for each hole, so we stopped counting).
In my second round, I shot a 121 and I remember thinking “pfff, I got this“.
Then after my third round… I go out and shoot a 138…
I was like “OK, this is why people hate and love this game at the same time“.
It was at that point I thought “Should I just take lessons if I’m going to be playing this for a while?“.
If you’re a beginner golfer wrestling with the same question, well then you’re in the right place.
This article will dive deep into the value of golf lessons for beginners.
We’ll break down why investing in your game from the start isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential.
And hopefully, along the way, we’ll answer “are golf lessons worth it for beginners?“.
Whether you’re contemplating your first club purchase or standing on the edge of the fairway filled with doubts, we’ve got the insights you need to make a well-informed choice.
If you want to see how you stack up against other beginner’s, check out my post “Average Golf Score For Beginners“.
Let’s dive in!
Benefits of Golf Lessons for Beginners
Beginners looking to learn golf (or anything for that matter) can be daunting, but choosing to invest in golf lessons right from the start can significantly accelerate your progression and improve your game.
1. Professional Golf Coach
Let’s cut right to the chase…
Golf without some guidance can get frustrating.
Oh, you checked the latest YouTube video from [insert golf influencer], didjya? And you’re wondering why you’re not bombing it 300+ yards off the deck?
Just stop…
This method of “Social Media Lessons” isn’t going to cut it, especially if you’re serious about lowering your score.
You need to take golf lessons from a professional golf coach.
It doesn’t have to be a Certified PGA Professional, but someone who’s experienced and knows what they’re talking about – even the best golfers in the world have a golf coach to take their game to the next level.
You see, golf pros have been around the block.
They’ve seen swings that make babies cry and have also witnessed the kind of shots that could put a tear in Tiger Woods’ eye. They know their stuff.
When you opt for golf lessons, you’re not just learning how to hit the ball. You’re absorbing the wealth of knowledge and experience that your instructor brings to the table.
They’re adept at breaking down the complexities of the game into digestible, easy-to-understand concepts.
This expertise is crucial in avoiding common pitfalls and steering clear of bad habits that can take years to unlearn.
It’s also about having someone in-person that’s who can dissect your swing, spot issues you didn’t even know existed, and give you tweaks that can transform your game.
Ever wonder why your ball decides to take a swim every time you’re near water? A golf pro can tell you why.
Plus, a pro can offer personalized feedback, tailoring their teaching to suit your unique needs and learning style.
They’re not like your “group chat” buddies where they laugh and throw insults. They’re actually great at giving advice and encouraging words of wisdom when you need them most.
2. Learning Proper Techniques
Golf is a game of precision, and mastering the correct techniques from the beginning is non-negotiable.
There are nuances to gripping the club, standing the right way (without looking like you’re doing an awkward yoga pose), and swinging without throwing your back out.
For instance, understanding the intricate mechanics of the golf swing, including the proper takeaway, backswing, downswing, and follow through, is nearly impossible without guidance.
Learning the proper technique not only keeps you safe from injuries but also ensures that your game improves steadily.
Plus, there’s nothing quite like the sound of “puring” a golf ball… it’s music to a golfer’s ears.
3. Building a Strong Foundation
One of the pivotal roles of golf lessons is to learn the fundamentals and build a solid foundation.
This encompasses more than just the physical aspects of the game, like your stance, grip, etc., but it’s about instilling a deep respect for the rules, golf etiquette, and spirit.
Imagine building a house; if the foundation is shaky, don’t be surprised when the walls start to crack. In our case, don’t be surprised if you lose all your golf balls in the woods because you shanked them.
Foundational lessons lay down the bricks of your golfing journey with care, ensuring every aspect from your swing to your stance is sturdy enough to build upon.
Now, you might not become the next Arnold Palmer, but with a strong foundation, you’ll at least set yourself up to a point where you can achieve some level of success.
So, while golf lessons might seem like just another expense, think of them as an investment in your golfing future.
Remember, every pro golfer started as a beginner, and every swing they took was a step towards greatness.
Drawbacks of Taking Golf Lessons as a Beginner
Just as it’s crucial to understand the benefits of taking lessons, there are also some drawbacks you need to be aware of. This balance ensures you make a well-informed choice that aligns with your needs and expectations.
1. Cost of Lessons
Golf ain’t cheap, and neither are lessons.
Go find a local golf shop, golf range, golf course, or even Google “golf lessons near me”, and you’ll see that individual lessons can range between $35 to $125 for a 30-minute one-on-one session, which doesn’t include a spa treatment.
These costs, along with green fees and driving range sessions, can accumulate, making it essential for you to budget wisely for this aspect of your golfing journey.
If those costs are outside your budget, instead of private golf, many golfers opt for group lessons.
These lessons offer a more budget-friendly alternative, with prices ranging from $25 to $50 per hour. They still provide valuable insights and improvements to your game without the higher price tag of the one-on-one “no spa treatment” option.
2. Time Commitment
Mastering golf requires dedication and time, both on and off the course…
Enrolling in lessons means committing not just to the time spent with your instructor but also to practicing what you’ve learned between sessions – you have to put in the work.
Between work, family, and that Netflix series you’re binging, carving out hours for golf lessons can feel like trying to find a tee time on a Saturday morning—practically impossible.
And let’s be real, one does not simply “play golf” quickly.
It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and those lesson plans don’t care about your busy schedule.
3. Varied Instructor Quality
Not all golf instructors are created equal…
The quality of your lessons largely depends on the skill and experience of your coach.
While many instructors are highly qualified, others might not provide the level of teaching you need.
This variance makes it important to research and select a coach who not only has a solid reputation but also exhibits a teaching style that meshes well with your learning preferences…
Do your due diligence—look for reviews or ask for recommendations.
Remember, a good golf coach can significantly enhance your learning experience, while a mismatch can hinder your progress.
4. No Guarantees
Here’s a truth bomb for you: golf lessons come with no guarantees.
Even if you have the best coach in the world, improvement is your responsibility.
There aren’t any magic golf clubs or secret swing mechanics that’ll turn you into Tiger Woods overnight – I wish!
Golf is a game of patience and practice, and more patience and improvement is a gradual process, often filled with ups and downs.
Your progress will depend on a variety of factors, including your natural aptitude, dedication to practice, and the quality of instruction you receive.
It’s essential to set realistic expectations and understand that becoming a proficient golfer is a long-term commitment.
Alternatives to Traditional Golf Lessons for Beginners
Did the price of golf lessons scare you a bit? And now you’re looking for alternatives?
Fear not. The great news is, that the traditional route isn’t the only game in town.
There are various ways to learn golf that may suit your learning style, budget, and personal preferences.
I personally know single-digit handicap golfers who combined the methods I’m going to show you below.
1. Online Golf Lessons
Welcome to the 21st century, where you can learn and take lessons online, including golf. This level of convenience cannot be understated.
Just imagine getting professional feedback without leaving the comfort of your own home.
The National Golf Foundation found that “approximately 64% of core golfers indicate they watch some golf instruction online“.
I particularly know some golfers admit to avoiding in-person lessons due to embarrassment, making these online lessons even more appealing.
Additionally, this approach can be a more wallet-friendly and flexible way to get your swing in shape.
You simply record your swing and send it to a coach for analysis. They’ll review it and even draw in some lines on where your swing path can be corrected.
Plus you can do it at any time, making the time commitment easier when compared to the in-person option.
But again, the key is to actively apply the advice given, rather than falling into the trap of passively consuming information.2.
2. Indoor Golf Simulators
For a more “tactile” experience, golf simulators are becoming more popular and present a viable alternative. These simulators offer insightful feedback by utilizing advanced technology to analyze your golf swing – heck, you can even find a popular PGA course and play a round of golf if you think it’ll improve your game.
But, there are a few ways to better utilize sims.
You can either go at it alone and play on world-famous courses without leaving town (or facing the judgment of other golfers). The only issue is that you won’t know how to correct your swing faults, grip, stance, etc.
Yes, you could practice a lot and hope for the best, but if you’re practicing the wrong fundamentals, then you’re just wasting money.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s a good way to practice and play, but only after you’ve received lessons or drills from your instructor.
Then there’s the other way to use sims, where certified pros join you and provide personalized lesson plans.
Companies like GOLFTEC have become leaders in this space, providing personalized instruction that can significantly elevate your game. Many golf pros actually have a golf sim in their house to practice on.
While the cost may be higher compared to some traditional lessons, the value received from high-tech, hands-on instruction makes it a compelling option for many novices and even advanced players.
I would only suggest this approach if you’re an advanced golfer wanting to improve to the next level and dial in certain aspects of your game.
Why You Should Consider Getting Golf Lessons
1. You Need Help With a Swing Issue
Let’s face it, if your golf swing currently looks more like an attempt to swat a fly rather than sending the ball flying smoothly down the fairway – then this is a clear sign you need some improvement.
If you’re struggling with pop-up drives, or you’re unintentionally slicing or hooking the ball, or you’re not even consistent with certain clubs – that’s another sign that your foundation could use some professional attention.
A golf coach can spot the quirks in your swing that you, even though your best efforts and all the YouTube tutorials in the world, might not see.
They have the expertise to identify the root cause of your struggle, whether it’s your stance, grip, or swing mechanics.
With specific drills and feedback, they can guide you through the necessary adjustments to improve your game.
2. You Need Help Learning Proper Techniques
Golf is a technical sport where the smallest details can significantly impact your performance.
Remember trying to learn to ride a bike?
There’s a good chance you didn’t just hop on and pedal off into the sunset on your first try – you probably had an older sibling, or parent, or enrolled in some bike classes. The same goes for golf.
Learning the correct techniques from the start saves you from the frustration of unlearning bad habits later on.
Professional golf lessons ensure you’re practicing the right form, from how you hold the club to how you approach your shot. This foundational knowledge sets you up for long-term success and enjoyment of the game.
3. Know Your Equipment
Let’s talk gear.
Not all clubs are created equal, and without some guidance, you’re just playing a very expensive guessing game.
Did you know that the angle of your club’s face can affect where your ball lands? Or that there’s more to choosing a ball than going for the one with the coolest logo?
Through lessons, you’ll learn how different clubs affect your shots helping you understand what works best for you and your unique game style. This way, you’re not scratching your head in the sporting goods aisle.
4. Understanding Course Etiquette
Golf has more unwritten rules than a secret society, and accidentally breaking one can earn you some serious side-eye from fellow golfers.
It’s not just about keeping quiet during swings; it’s the little things, like not stepping on someone’s putting line or understanding how to “play through” politely.
Lessons cover these friendly “gentlepeople’s agreements”, ensuring you’re as comfortable with the dos and don’ts as you are with a nine-iron in your hand. It’s like learning the secret handshake that gets you into the club—figuratively and literally.
Tips For Taking Golf Lessons for Beginners
Look, one lesson won’t do anything, especially if it’s your first golf lesson.
I could even argue that a few lessons won’t do anything unless you implement some of the tips below…
1. Practice What You Learned On Your Own Time
Okay, picture this…
You’ve just had an amazing lesson. You got your stance down. Your grip feels solid. Your swing is feeling smoother and you’re feeling good.
What’s next?
Lounging on the couch binging your favorite series? Tempting, but wrong answer.
It’s time to practice, practice, and practice some more.
You need to cement the knowledge and your movement into your muscle memory.
The point is, keep swinging, and those improvements will stick like glue.2.
2. Do Daily Drills Anywhere, Even At Home
You don’t need the vast expanses of a golf course to refine your skills.
Your living room, backyard, or even a corridor can transform into your training ground.
Daily drills could be anything from grip exercises with a TV remote (weird but works) to shadow swings that help ingrain that movement.
Feel silly swinging into thin air at home? Don’t be. I’d bet you’ve probably seen some dude at the grocery, the airport, or even at a party just practicing their takeaway – trust me, it looks silly but it helps.
3. Work On Specific Areas of Your Game
Personally, I’m not a fan of taking the shotgun approach and trying to learn everything in one go.
As I mentioned earlier, lessons can get pretty expensive, and doing this approach is just financially irresponsible.
Instead, try a focused approach and work on improving specific areas of your game.
Struggle with putting? Make that your mission.
Can’t seem to get out of the bunkers? Zoom in on that.
This focused approach leads to noticeable improvements, making the learning process less of a headache and more of a victory lap.
4. Choose An Instructor To Match Your Handedness
This tip might sound like choosing a character in a video game, but hear me out.
The majority of people (golfers and coaches included) are right-handed, whereas a small percentage of the population is left – even smaller for left-handed golfers.
Now, if you’re a lefty (which I am), trying to mirror a right-handed instructor can feel like attempting to write with your non-dominant hand… it’s doable but awkward.
Find an instructor who shares the same handedness as you are. It’ll be a lot more fluid when they’re talking about certain hand positions as well as shot shaping (ie. a hook to a right-handed golfer is a slice to a left-hander) – trust me on this!
5. Set Realistic Expectations
If you’re going to your first lesson, try not to be embarrassed, they’re there to help you.
Be open about where you are in your golf journey.
Don’t go expecting that you’ll master your golf swing from a single lesson.
Instead, try to take away one piece of advice from each session. This allows you to examine the information provided and you have a clear goal of what you need to do during your own practice time.
For example, if you need to find out what’s right or wrong with your swing, your grip, your distance from the ball, etc. Take down that information and ask for drills to help aid you in correcting it.
During the next lesson, show your coach your progress and then work on the next aspect of your game – this is an iterative process.
Final Thoughts | Are Golf Lessons Worth It for Beginners
To end this off, allow me to dive right into the heart of the matter.
Picking up golf is tough – simple as that.
That’s why even Michael Jordan said that “golf is the hardest game to play“.
It takes a lot of patience, precision, practice, and mental fortitude.
The golf swing alone can take years to master. The takeaway, backswing, downswing, impact, the follow through – all these little details you need to consider just to “swing a golf club”.
Then you also have to consider your lie angle, the weather, the wetness/dryness of the course, the speed of the green, course management, the wind, and a thousand other factors that can alter your shot.
But with lessons, you can drastically mitigate a lot of those factors
You’ll know what shot to take, where to aim, and what club to use.
You’ll be more confident with your swing. You’ll dial in your distances. You’ll understand how to read the green.
All these benefits eventually lead to lower scores and a more enjoyable day on the course.
So, are golf lessons worth it for beginners? Absolutely, but with a caveat.
They’re worth it, but you also need to supplement the lessons with your own practice time.
Before you Go…
As I previously said, golf is tough. With all the rules, terminology, and the different types of clubs.
One of the key changes I made to my game that allowed me to break 90 in 6 months was really dialing in my short game, more specifically, my wedge game.
That’s why I created two posts that talk about my favorite wedges, the 52 and 60 degree wedges.
Check it out:
