Beginner golf mistakes: Here are 10 (!) of the worst

It's a simple fact that beginners make mistakes; it's even encouraged.

Some mistakes, however, are completely avoidable from the off - if you have the correct knowledge under your belt, of course.

For that very reason, here's a detailed breakdown of the 10 biggest mistakes beginner golfers make, alongside some very handy tips to avoid them:

1. Not Having Fun

The Problem: First things first: golf should be enjoyable! Getting caught up in mechanics, bad shots, or keeping up with others can make the game feel like an absolute chore.

The Fix: Relax, have fun with your playing partners, and celebrate the good shots. Focus on the beautiful scenery, the challenge of the course, and the camaraderie of the game. After all, golf is a great way to get exercise, spend time outdoors, and socialize with friends. You could even finish a round with a drink or two on the 19th, where you can watch and even treat yourself to a flutter on the big games. Kane Pepi, online gambling expert, explains that more and more golfers are choosing other ways of betting such as cryptocurrency betting sites, over the more traditional sportsbooks because of their seemingly endless offers and quick signups. (Just remember to keep an eye on recent performances so you don’t back the wrong golfer!)

2. Swinging for the Fences

The Problem: Beginners often try to hit the ball as hard as possible, leading to a loss of control and accuracy. They might also swing too fast, causing jerky movements and inconsistent contact with the ball.

The Fix: Focus on a smooth, controlled swing with good tempo. Imagine swinging through the ball rather than at it. Practice making solid contact with the center of the clubface for better distance and accuracy. There are many online resources and driving range drills to help develop a smoother swing. Consider taking a lesson from a golf professional for personalized guidance.

3. Ignoring the Short Game

The Problem: While hitting long drives is exciting, most strokes are gained (or lost) around the green. Beginners often neglect practicing chipping, pitching, and putting, leading to high scores.

The Fix: The short game is crucial for scoring low. Dedicate time to practicing chipping, pitching, and putting regularly. You can even practice these skills at home with a putting mat or in your backyard. Look for online chipping drills or consult a golf pro for specific techniques.

4. Using the Wrong Clubs

The Problem: The wrong clubs can hinder your swing and make the game frustrating. Beginner clubs are typically designed to be more forgiving on mishits compared to those used by professionals.

The Fix: Don't be afraid to experiment with different clubs to find what works best for you. Consider a used set for affordability, or get fitted at a golf shop to find clubs that match your height, strength, and swing.

5. Neglecting Proper Grip and Posture

The Problem: A proper grip and posture are the foundation of a good swing. They provide stability and control throughout your swing, leading to more consistent shots. There are different grip styles, but a neutral grip is a good starting point for beginners.

The Fix: Learn the proper grip and posture from online tutorials, golf instruction videos, or a golf professional. A neutral grip involves placing your hands comfortably on the club with minimal hand rotation. Imagine a good golf posture similar to standing tall with your knees slightly bent and your weight evenly distributed on both feet.

6. Getting Discouraged by Bad Shots

The Problem: Everyone makes mistakes in golf, even professionals. Beginners might get discouraged by bad shots, leading to frustration and a negative impact on their game.

The Fix: Develop a positive mental attitude. Learn from your mistakes, adjust your swing if needed, and focus on the next shot. Remember, golf is a challenging game, and improvement takes time and practice.

7. Playing from the Wrong Tees

The Problem: Playing from tees that are too long can make the course frustrating and lead to more lost balls. Beginners should choose tees that allow them to comfortably reach the green in regulation for most holes (typically the forward tees).

The Fix: Don't be afraid to play from the forward tees, especially when starting out. Having more manageable distances will help you enjoy the game more, improve your confidence, and ultimately lead to better scores.

8. Trying to Do Too Much with Your Swing

The Problem: Beginners might try to incorporate complex swing mechanics they've seen on TV, leading to an overly complicated and inconsistent swing.

The Fix: Keep your swing mechanics simple, especially when starting out. Focus on the fundamentals like grip, posture, and a smooth tempo. You can gradually add more complexity as your skills improve.

9. Not Reading Greens

The Problem: Putting is a significant portion of the game, and reading greens is crucial for making good putts. Beginners might struggle to judge the slope, speed, and grain of the green, leading to missed putts.

The Fix: Learn the basics of green reading. Observe the slope of the green, the location of the hole, and any wind conditions. Practice putting drills that involve reading greens. There are many online resources and golf instruction videos available to help.

10. Getting Caught Up in Course Etiquette

The Problem: Golf has specific rules and etiquette for proper conduct on the course. Beginners might worry too much about every detail, leading to anxiety and hindering their enjoyment of the game.

The Fix: Focus on learning the basic etiquette rules, such as proper pace of play, repairing divots and ball marks, and maintaining good sportsmanship. Don't worry about every intricate rule at first. Most golfers are understanding, and you can learn the finer points as you go.

Remember, everyone starts somewhere in golf. Embrace the learning process, be patient with yourself, and most importantly, have fun on the course, on the 19th and betting online!