Every golfer has asked at one time or another, “Should I get golf lessons? Are golf lessons worth it?”
For some, it happens early on in the golf journey, while for others, it’s not until things look bad on your golf course.
Most golfers get tune-up lessons with golf professionals instead of building a fundamentally sound swing.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything from golf lessons to tips on finding an instructor.
Should I Get Golf Lessons?
Golf lessons definitely do help you speed up the learning process in golf. But these lessons are not for all types of players. Plus, they can make your pockets light, so make sure you’re on the correct timeline to ask someone for help.
The following are the traits that make you an ideal person to get golf lessons:
You’re a Committed Golfer
If you’re the type of person who loves learning about the game and truly wants to get better at golf, an instructor can help.
We recommend you get an instructor at the beginning of your journey as they can help with golf etiquette, finding the right golf ball, etc.
You Have Your Own Golf Clubs
Make sure you have your own set of beginner golf clubs and have used them before getting lessons. Have some “data” about your swing to make things easier for your instructor.
You’re Open to New Ideas
You’ll have to practice different drills, swings, training aids, and grips to learn the lesson your coach is trying to teach. Plus, they have to figure out what style works best for you to help you get results.
So, be open to failure, and don’t get disheartened when you hit terrible shots. If you have a good attitude and are open to new ideas, an instructor can help a ton. From helping you build a solid foundation and improving swing mechanics to addressing your common swing faults, instructors are an investment.
You Have Enough Time
You need to work and practice regularly to become a pro at golf. To see the required results, you must put the reps in practice.
Most golfers mistake golf lessons for an easy way to create a great swing. While golf lessons can guide you in the right direction and promote good habits, the real work is done outside of practice.
Repetition is the mother of all mastery- especially in golf. You need to hit dozens of buckets of balls at the driving range to make your swing consistent. So if you have time to practice between lessons semi-frequently, then an instructor can help, and is worth the money.
You Need Help With a Swing Issue
If you’re struggling with golf references like pop-up shots, ball flight issues (pushes/pulls), or something else, an instructor can help.
Instructors also help with course management, mental game strategies, and short game lessons.
How to Find a Golf Coach
While there are tons of coaches available, you need to do some research and not rush the decision.
Keep the following things in mind before hiring a coach:
- Remote vs. in-person: Do you want to work with this person at your local golf club or take videos of your swing and send them to an online instructor? Some golfers like “figuring it out themselves” and prefer the flexibility of remote lessons, while other golfers like the 1:1 interactions.
- Group vs. 1:1 lessons: Group lessons are cheaper and great for beginners to learn the fundamentals like grip, stance, posture, takeaway, etc. Plus, it’s a good way to learn with a friend and hold each other accountable in practice.
To learn more and find the right instructor for your game, check out “How to Pick a Golf Coach.”
FAQ
1. How many golf lessons does it take to get good at golf?
While golf lessons help you build a strong foundation for your swing, more of them don’t automatically mean faster results.
It’s what you do outside of your lesson time that matters the most. That’s why we suggest only hiring an instructor if you have time to work on your game in between lessons. Otherwise, it’s not the best way to spend your money.
2. Can I get better at golf without lessons?
Yes, some of the most successful golfers on the planet are self-taught including Bubba Watson and John Daly. There are other successful golfers like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Justin Thomas who regularly get lessons or tune-ups with an instructor.
3. What percentage of golfers take lessons?
According to the National Golf Foundation, four million golfers took lessons in 2018.
That represents about 17% of all golfers.
The study found that “More than 75% of golfers who took instruction did so through a certified PGA professional (PGA of America member), the recognized teachers and leaders of the industry’s effort to develop and retain golfers, promote the game and make it more fun.”
The study also found that:
- 64% of golfers watch instruction online.
- Males represent 77% of all golfers and represent the majority of people who take lessons.
- Women are more inclined toward group lessons, whereas males prefer 1:1 lessons.
- Group lessons account for 25% of all lessons given.
4. How much should I spend on my golf lessons?
Your golf lessons depend on the following: remote vs. in-person, 1:1 vs. group lessons, playing lessons vs. range lessons, and more. But, if you sign up for a 45-60 minute lesson, prices can range from $50 to $500 depending on your location and instructor.
Final Thoughts
Paying for your instructors is definitely worth the money. These golf lessons make your complex game easier, especially if you are a beginner. Additionally, they also help you get out of a golf slump if you’re struggling with misses.
While they are great, they are also not meant for everyone. So make sure you meet the criteria as mentioned.
Hopefully, these lesson tips will help you find the right instructor and take your game to the next level.
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