To Lesson or Not to Lesson, That is the Question

By Dave Ramsay, GMGC Head Golf Professional

A  common question that golf professionals are asked is, “Should I take golf lessons?”  The reply usually consists of other questions, such as:  “Are you a beginner?”  “What do you want to get out of your golf game that you don’t have now?”  ”Do you have the time and desire to commit to practicing?”

 If you are a beginner or novice, lessons are highly recommended.  A proper golf swing is not something that anyone ever intuitively starts doing on their own.  Most new golfers are introduced to the game by a well-intentioned friend or family member. New players can become very discouraged when struck by the realization that golf is, well, tough!   It’s not that being introduced to the game by another person in this way (on the range, not the golf course) is wrong; it is beneficial to have a golfing partner early, but it has its limitations.  A good player that has not been trained to teach effectively will be limited in what, and how, they can instruct a new player.  In fact, many negative things can happen (besides really ugly shots, expletives, and frustratingly chasing your ‘teacher’ with a 9-iron).  Poor instruction can easily result in a player quitting before they ever start and can lead to injury caused by poor mechanics and technique.   And we’ve all heard the jokes and stories about relationship that have been strained by the simple act of trying to teach someone to golf – those aren’t just stories!

 For a beginner, use an introduction to golf for just that:  an introduction.  Show them the basics - how to hold the club, how to address the ball (helloooo, ball!), and roughly how to swing (with a short iron).  Most importantly, make the game fun so they ask to come back.  Give them a chance for success – knocking the ball in the hole on the putting green, getting the ball in the air at the range.  When a new golfer has fun with the game, the desire to be better is created and that’s when professional instruction should be introduced.  Find a qualified professional that excels at teaching beginners/novices and will introduce (or review) the fundamentals as they relate to each individual (as opposed to just teaching everyone the same swing).  A good instructor will help them grow leaps and bounds by helping that player set a strong foundation.

If you’re a more experienced player considering lessons, the question is what are your goals and are you willing to commit the necessary time and effort to achieve those goals.  How much time and effort?  Speak to an instructor about your goals and get an opinion on the commitment level needed to attain those goals. Then it’s your choice to pursue those goals. Once you are committed, find a qualified instructor that can teach your ability level, and who will make only the necessary changes and adjustments to your swing as proper mechanics and technique relate to your individual characteristics and attributes (as opposed to just teaching everyone the same swing).  Make sure it is someone that you can be comfortable with and will trust as those changes and adjustments are made.

Sometimes the answer to the ‘should I take a lesson’ question is “no.”  Before spending time and money for a golf lesson ask yourself these questions: Am I willing to devote the necessary time and effort to improve?; am I looking for a quick fix or a long term solution?; am I patient enough if progress comes slowly?  Again, a good instructor will take into account your swing, your goals, and develop a plan for what it will take – but success depends on your open mind and willingness to practice.  Be honest as to whether you can meet that plan, and if you can’t do it, hold off on the lessons until later.

 Lessons can be an enjoyable and gratifying experience for a player (whether beginner or expert) looking to improve their game and protect their body.  If you have questions about how instruction might help you or someone you know, or what kind of lessons and instruction programs are available, feel free to contact me or our other excellent golf professionals at Green Mountain GC.  I’d be happy to give you a sneak peak of what is happening this season.  We have wonderful programs for small groups and families that I am excited to introduce very soon and there are a variety of individual and group lesson packages available for all ages and abilities.