Golf 101s: Everything You Need To Know
Golf is an exciting game for players of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re just starting out or need a quick refresher, this guide includes everything you need to know, from terminology and technique to golf course etiquette. Explore the basics of golf, so you can hit those fairways with confidence.
Overview
The History of Golf Rules
Golf is a game of trust and respect. To successfully play, you must understand the fundamentals of not only the sport but also the particular course you’re playing on. Rules tend to vary from place to place and every club or course may have different rules. Knowing how to adhere to these rules improves your enjoyment and boosts your success in the game.
Since 1894, the United States Golf Association (USGA) has been dedicated to uniting golfers around the world with one common goal: making sure everyone plays by the rules. Through a group of expert committees focused on every aspect of this sport, the USGA created and maintains standardized regulations to keep everybody playing by the same rules, while still promoting fun on the course.
The USGA is committed to staying ahead of the times, making sure golfers around the United States stay up-to-date with every rule and update, so every four years they publish an essential guidebook full of all developments since their last publication. These updates are filled with new policies, adopted in response to technological advancements and player feedback. It’s a good resource to skim or at least be aware of for all the need-to-knows about modern golfing.
Golf Vocabulary
Golfing has a unique set of lingo, but learning the terms shouldn’t be intimidating. Here’s a quick rundown of all the important words.
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Driving Range |
The place where you practice your swing before you hit the course |
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Tee box |
The area where you tee off (hit the ball) |
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Green |
The grassy part of the course that contains a flagstick and is surrounded by bunks on all sides. The green can be either uphill or downhill from your position on the fairway (where you’re hitting). There are several types of greens, including flat, side slope, and downslope |
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Fairway |
This is an area between tee boxes and greens where shots must land for them not to be penalized for being out of bounds or going into a hazard such as sand traps near water hazards. |
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Rough |
An area just beyond where most golfers like playing their shots because they don't want them rolling back onto fairways behind them. It's often called riding rough because it sometimes looks like someone has ridden through it on horseback! |
Golf Swing Basics
First, position your club to face the correct way before swinging–that’s rule number one. After all, the direction you swing helps determine how much spin and curve will be on the ball after impact. To master that perfect shot, don't forget this essential component of any great golfer's skill set.
Take your golf game to the next level with a few simple steps. Follow along with this step-by-step golf swing video tutorial from Golf.com as you think of the club’s path and how it should move as you swing.
Golf Scoring
Golfers, there are two ways to play the game. You can go head-to-head in a match and keep track with “hole” scoring or get an official to mark off each shot on your scorecard using the “total” (or cumulative) method, which is good for larger tournaments.
Hitting a hole-in-one can really be the cherry on top of your round with either two or three points available as prizes. But even five-foot putts make a big difference; they're worth double if you sink them outside of 10 feet. Gather your friends and head out to the course for matches where close calls bring both victory and defeat. Ultimately, whoever scores lowest over 18 takes home the bragging rights.
How to Win a Game of Golf
Golf is more than just an easy game. It takes a special kind of determination to conquer the green. You have to stay focused, respect the rules and etiquette, and practice. Practice makes progress. Before long, the best swing and course rules will all be second nature for you. Your body will learn to instinctively land those great hits, and you’ll remember not to throw any clubs after a frustrating swing. Playing a great game of golf doesn't happen overnight, but with dedication and practice, it is achievable!
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