Hobbies and leisure activities change as we hit our late 20s and early 30s. The desire to win is replaced by camaraderie, activity, and not getting injured. As responsibilities in life change, so relationships, challenges, and physical goals. People that age want to do something with friends for a that’s not too intense yet not too basic, something physical that still provides a chance to catch up over a few hours. Why not give golf a shot? Golf can be an intimidating game for an outsider with its unwritten rules and etiquette. Yet there are ways to make it accessible for someone new. We at GBU have decided to run a new series called “Get Into Golf” (GIG). The content will focus on tips and steps to pick up golf for the first time at an older age.
Potential posts include:
- finding the right golf clubs
- breaking 100
- tips on finding a worthwhile instructor or mentor
- playing the game on a budget
But first, some general ideas about golf in a social context.
Golf will eventually replace pickup basketball as the activity amongst friends
Pickup basketball used to be the sport of leisure amongst friends. But there comes a moment when you spend more time stretching beforehand than actually playing. And you worry more about not getting hurt than going all out for a play. Plus the soreness lasts two days. That is the signal for groups of friends turn to golf.
The key idea is to go into golf with people. It makes the long journey from beginner to holding your own more fun and entertaining. From driving ranges to foursomes, golf is as social a sport as a person makes it. Every player will struggle at golf. It’s much more fun to struggle with people, which brings up…
Let Go of Expectations
Any competitor wants to – has to – be the best at something. It is important to reframe expectations. Think about improving little by little each time you go out for a round or to the driving range. Focus on one aspect of the game, whether it be driving, irons, or putting. Most of all, have fun. No one picks up golf this late to become a pro. Enjoy not having pressure, and enjoy enjoying something for its own sake.
Which leads to…
Take golf lessons from a pro
Bubba Watson won the Master’s with his own swagbuckling, self taught swing. But that is the rare exception. This series will cover what to look for in an instructor in future posts, but a few lessons early into a golf career pays major dividends. Take lessons before you develop bad habits and get a basic feel for a proper stance, grip, and swing. Getting proper instruction early can help save money, time, and frustration.
Which brings up the final point…
The Joy of Learning
Learning new activities is the key to a healthy brain. Golf combines mental, physical, and timing discipline into one. Golf is a game of humility and struggle. Even profession who’ve played the game their entire lives continue to improve, tweak, and struggle with the game. Think it more of a lifelong companion than a skill to master. It’s one of the few sports that you get better at as you age.
Over the coming months, we’ll walk you through the steps necessary to grasp, and eventually enjoy, the game. It’s never too late to be a beginner.