teaching a beginner

ZGriswold83 · August 25, 2008

My girlfriend really wants to pick up playing golf, after hearing me talk about it so much and driving me around on the golf course (and not complaining!). She's a natural athlete, and played softball her whole life. I'm trying to teach her basics without going over her head. We've been to the range a handful of times and each time she hits the ball better and better, she rattled off about 5 130 yard 7 irons straight as an arrow the other day. I've never had formal lessons, and I average 78 (damn putting!) So I was trying to get some thing to teach her or have her practice that will help her. She's been using my clubs at the range which are all stiff flex, and she is having a hard time getting the ball in the air and getting discouraged, I told her that a lighter flex will help. I've taught her a good grip and basic golf stance. any pointers are appreciated!

bortass · August 26, 2008

I'm definately not an expert. Take the following with a grain or 100 of salt.

If my wife suddenly said she wanted to learn to play I'd: get her some lessons; find her some clubs, even if it's just a partial set.

I wouldn't want her using my clubs because I doubt she'd be that successful with them. They're a bit longer and stiff flex.

If getting the ball airborne is a key, maybe have her tee it up. You can then slowly lower/remove the tee as her swing get's better.

titaniummd · August 26, 2008

My girlfriend really wants to pick up playing golf, after hearing me talk about it so much and driving me around on the golf course (and not complaining!). She's a natural athlete, and played softball her whole life. I'm trying to teach her basics without going over her head. We've been to the range a handful of times and each time she hits the ball better and better, she rattled off about 5 130 yard 7 irons straight as an arrow the other day. I've never had formal lessons, and I average 78 (damn putting!) So I was trying to get some thing to teach her or have her practice that will help her. She's been using my clubs at the range which are all stiff flex, and she is having a hard time getting the ball in the air and getting discouraged, I told her that a lighter flex will help. I've taught her a good grip and basic golf stance. any pointers are appreciated!

That is great that she has an interest. Good for her.

You can get her fitted but I fear the clubs may be the improper length. She could get a customized set - depending upon the budget of the buyer.

She should take a few introductory lessons on grip, alignment, stance, swing mechanics, putting, basic chipping and sand play.

If she has a tough time getting airborne, have her hit the ball off of a tee. Once thebasic mechanics of the swing are there, then she can hit off of the grass.