Even if you’ve never picked up a golf club, starting now might be easier than you think

Your friends play golf, colleagues from the office have invited you out, and even your spouse has picked up the game. But you’ve never taken much interest in golf.

But now, you’re finally at a point where you’ve got more time on your hands and you’re starting to take a look at the game with a more serious eye. You notice that there seems to be a lot of interest in the game among people closer to your age than ever before.

Still, you’re older and you’ve never played before, so you’re wondering if it’s too late to take up the game of golf.

Nope. Unless you can’t move, it’s never too late. In fact, golf facilities and equipment manufacturers are catering to new golfers like never before. It’s actually a great time for someone considering taking up the game.

Golf is no longer considered just a hobby for retirement — it has become a more active and engaging sport.

People are drawn to golf for a variety of reasons — mainly because of family and friends — and most want to be good at it. So if you’re considering starting golf, let’s talk about what you need to consider to enjoy the game.

The questions that come up most often for those considering starting golf is — “…are there special considerations for lessons, equipment or courses to keep in mind?”

Sure, and I’ll go over each of these for you…

Should I take golf lessons from a professional instructor?

I definitely recommend it. Finding a qualified instructor and taking lessons is guaranteeing yourself some success. Golf is not an easy game to go out there and learn on your own, or from a well-meaning friend or family member. A professional instructor will save you a lot of frustration by helping you learn how to feel the correct motion in your golf swing and eliminate any bad habits you might be creating.

A professional instructor can also give an objective appraisal of your skill, help you set realistic and manageable goals, and provide you with the technical know-how you need to become a good player. He can spot your flaws and offer suggestions on how to correct them. He can personally assess what areas you need to work on, whether it’s your posture, alignment or swing control. And taking lessons can give you feedback on your progress, allow you to ask all the questions you have, and learn how to avoid injuries.

A golf instructor will tailor lessons to your needs and abilities, and deliver information in a way you you can easily understand, which will help you master your golf skills faster.

A few instructors will also videotape your lessons (as I do my students). Watching yourself swing and having it correctly dissected by a skilled professional is an invaluable learning tool. The work you do with a good instructor creates a unique dialogue of trust and respect while you’re building your game.

Read what my students say about my golf instruction →

Do I need an instructor who specializes in older golfers?

Not necessarily. What you need is an instructor who can show you how to get a natural, powerful swing — one that’s on plane according to your body’s own mechanics —that’s easy on your body and that can dependably deliver consistent shots.

What golf equipment will I need?

You’re going to need a set of clubs that fit you — meaning fit to your size, swing speed and strength. I can recommend websites where you can get that. I can also say that you get the codes. You don’t need to pay a bunch for them, though. Regardless of the set you choose, I highly recommend getting a custom fitting from an expert who can guide you into the right set for you.

A club fitting takes about 30–60 minutes and can cost $50 to $75, which most stores will credit back to you in the price of your set. The value of the fitting is in the time, frustration and money it can save you later. All too often I see beginners who buy a driver or a set of irons that doesn’t fit his/her personal characteristics… and they never really get the benefit of that club.

Don’t make this mistake. Most golf pros are able to help you with this important decision.

You might want to check out my take on same length golf clubs before you make a decision.

So I’ve had some lessons and I’ve got my clubs. Is it time to hit the links?

Some new players have this misconception that you’ve got to be able to play 18 holes before you ever walk out on a course, but that’s just not true. What I say is to relax, think about what you’ve learned from your instruction, and enjoy the game. Playing a round will get you into the flow of the golf course and a sense of what you’re doing.

You won’t be perfect — you’ll have some successes and some failures — and that’s okay. Enjoying your time out there is what it’s all about. As a beginner golfer, you can’t take a 20 on the first hole and have any fun. You just can’t enjoy yourself. So, if you hit a few bad shots and you’re struggling, pick it up and go to the next hole if you want. And if you’re playing with a group who think it’s wrong to do that, you’re playing with the wrong group.

What should I look for when choosing a course to play?

You’ll feel less pressure if you call up the course and say, “We’re a group of new golfers and we don’t have a lot of experience, but we want to come and play your course. When would be a good time of day when the course isn’t so busy and we wouldn’t feel rushed?” I see a lot of beginners who go out at the end of the day, thinking there won’t be much going on. But for a lot of courses, that’s the busiest time for singles or twosomes to go out — this is a time when a slow foursome really is in the way.

According to Golf Breaks UK, the golf shop will be able tell you the best time for you and/or your group to go out — it’s important to ask before you book a tee time.

As an older beginner golfer, is there any areas of the game I might see an advantage?

Definitely. Older golfers tend to be more level-headed, so you often learn to be a much better manager of the game out on the course. You have the maturity to play your own game rather than try to imitate one of the touring pros you’ve seen on TV. Most older golfers have the attitude that you’re going to play your own game and you don’t worry about what other golfers do.

Beginners often feel shy or embarrassed about using the senior or ladies tees. Should they?

Not at all. In fact, I think beginner players need to start using these tees more. Golf is not an easy game and one of the reasons many stop playing is because it’s too hard for them. So, as a new golfer, definitely go for the closer tee boxes. You’ll give yourself of much better chance of hitting the ball where you want it to go, and you’ll enjoy the success you get doing it.

Are there mental or physical health benefits of golf for older players?

Absolutely. Walking 9 holes or 18 holes gives you a great cardiovascular workout. Compare spending a couple of hours on the golf course versus being on a treadmill — I’m betting you’ll have a lot more fun playing golf! Also, being out on a golf course is a great way to relax and socialize with others. If you truly enjoy playing golf with your family and friends, then you should learn how to find cheap golfing holidays.