Starting golf as an adult can feel daunting. There's the kit, the jargon, and the worry of looking daft on a range next to people who've played for years. The good news is that the right start makes the game far easier and more enjoyable. Here's how to begin if you're in or around Leicester.
Why lessons first is the best way to start
Most beginners try to teach themselves from YouTube, then book a lesson once something has gone wrong. By then, the habits are already there, and undoing them takes longer than learning it properly in the first place.
A few lessons at the start give you a grip, setup and swing that the rest of your golf can be built on. You'll also enjoy it more, because you'll actually hit the ball.
What beginner lessons at AS Golf look like
Lessons take place in a private indoor studio at The Golf Lounge in Birstall, so there's no audience and no weather to worry about. All ages and abilities are welcome, and complete beginners are as welcome as single-figure handicappers.
- Start with the basics. Grip, stance, posture and ball position. Simple, but this is where most problems start.
- See what you're doing. Video and launch data show what's happening, which makes it far easier to understand than words alone.
- One thing at a time. No information overload. You'll leave with one clear thing to practise.
- Notes afterwards. Written lesson notes and a video voice-over mean you won't forget what you worked on.
Do I need my own clubs?
Not to start with. If you have clubs, bring them. If you don't, mention it when you book. It's worth holding off on buying a full set until you've had a few lessons, because what suits you depends on your swing. When you're ready, a custom fitting makes sure you buy the right clubs first time.
How many lessons will I need?
It depends on your goals, but most beginners benefit from a short block of lessons a couple of weeks apart, with practice in between. A four-hour package (£300, or £75 a lesson) is a good starting point. It's enough time to build the basics and check they're holding up.
Practising between lessons
Little and often beats a big bucket once a month. Twenty focused minutes on the thing you worked on in your lesson will move you on faster than an hour of hitting balls without a plan. The Golf Lounge simulator is available for practice sessions, with data on every shot.
Start with a £29 first lesson
If you're new to AS Golf, your first full one-hour lesson is £29. It's a relaxed way to find out where you're starting from and what to work on first. Read more about lessons or book online.