Choosing the Best Golf Lessons & Coaching
Choosing the Best Golf Lessons & Coaching
Golf is a great recreational sport that builds stronger relationships among friends, families and colleagues. You can even hit the green solo if you want. However, getting started playing it can typically be intimidating for most. Questions you may ask yourself include, which club do you use to hit the ball balanced on the tee? Or how do you chip the ball? What exactly is chipping in the first place?
For those questions and more, this beginner’s guide to learning how to choose the best golf lessons & coaching makes all the difference in the world. This Golf 101 guide is best for those who want to learn how to play golf or high handicappers who want to improve their game.
In it, we've shared tips and best practices on how to choose the best golf lessons for your needs, whether they be online, local, free, or video-based. We'll also cover how to find beginner golf lessons near you and provide recommendations for some of the best free online video golf lessons available.
3 Primary Types of Golf Coaches or Trainers
When it comes to learning golf basics, there are three main types of teachers: Private, group, and virtual.
- Private: These golf coaches work closely with you, providing one-on-one instruction that’s tailored to your specific needs. Private coaching tends to be the most expensive of the three, but they offer the benefit of focused, one-on-one, bespoke coaching.
- Group: Group coaches teach multiple students simultaneously, offering a more social and cost-effective learning environment. Group lessons, being more budget-friendly than private ones, also provide the opportunity to connect with other learners.
- Virtual: Virtual lessons are the most budget-friendly, allowing you to learn at your own pace and convenience. Virtual golf instructors deliver their lessons remotely, either through live video chats or pre-recorded videos, making them the most affordable option. It’s even possible to get free golf video lessons.
Benefits of Golf and the Right Coach or Trainer
Golf, like many other sports, offers numerous benefits, including enjoyment, camaraderie, environmental appreciation, and exercise.
Finding the right coach promotes these benefits. With the right instructor, you will:
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Improve your skills.
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Boost your confidence.
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Enjoy the game more.
- Develop good golfing habits.
How Much are Golf Lessons?
If you’ve asked, ‘How much do golf lessons cost?’ you’re not alone. Golf is generally not the cheapest sport, and the cost of it ranges all over the place. Consider on the high end, a medalist membership initial fee that Tiger Woods pays is $110K, according to The Golf Life Agent, an organization that breaks down membership costs. Then, the membership dues he pays are nearly $20K/year.
Don’t get discouraged by this if you are on a budget, OK? We’ll do our best to unpack the low costs at the other end of the golfing lesson spectrum.
Teaching yourself or playing with friends and family who are good golf players gives you insight into how to play and provides you with almost free golf lessons.
Watching YouTube videos made by golf masters is another low-cost option, and it requires that you only shell out money for streaming fees and equipment costs. Sharing golf clubs and using public Wi-Fi can further reduce your expenses.
This DIY approach works well for beginners, and videos that improve your technique abound. It’s also entirely possible to find free online golf lessons. There is even one by Rick Shiels Golf titled, “Best simple golf tips for beginners & high handicappers!” that we like a lot and find pretty effective.
Using public and municipal golf courses vs. private golf clubs to learn and improve your game is another route you can take that’s cheaper. If even the best free online golf lessons aren’t for you, then you can sign up for a typical 30–45-minute lesson with an instructor for approximately $45-$60. On the other hand, lessons with the top PGA coaches can be a lot more. So, don’t be surprised to pay around $400 to $500 per hour. If you’re serious about improving, though, be prepared to invest several hundred dollars initially.
Group lessons offer a cost-effective way to learn and meet other golfers. They provide social interaction and shared learning experiences. Private lessons, though pricier, offer personalized instruction tailored to your needs. Booking multiple lessons in advance can secure discounted rates, providing consistent practice and improvement.
Even though you may be cash-strapped, investing in quality golfing equipment and apparel is always a good idea. After all, you’re not going to be able to focus on what your instructor is trying to teach you if you’re suffering from blisters or chafed skin. Therefore, it’s best to leave ill-fitting clothes at home. Even more importantly, make sure you’re wearing the right footwear for golfing.
For example, TRUEENERGY® offers a line of Pro Golf Socks that are made to fit correctly. They’ve got compression and infrared technology to help ensure you’ve got improved circulation, which leads to a faster healing process and better recovery.
Additionally, these socks will stay in place comfortably due to their unique arch band, and they also help protect your heels from any rubbing with their soft tab back. These are all qualities you should look for when deciding what type of socks to wear for a day at the course.
Finding the Best Beginner Golf Coach or Trainer
Now that you know what to look for in a coach or trainer, it’s time to learn how to choose the best one. After all, finding beginner golf lessons near you is easy, but finding the perfect instructor for you isn’t.
Consider the following common factors when searching for a good golf instructor:
Tips for Getting Started with Your Beginner Golf Instruction
Finding beginner golf lessons nearby can be a bit of a search, but here are some general tips:
Finding Beginner Golf Lessons Near You
Golf is a growing industry that is worth approximately $102 billion to the U.S. economy. It is doing especially well in the following six states:
Below, we’ll take a closer look at how to find a golf lesson near you. We’ve taken 10 U.S. states, which represents 20% of America, to make your search extremely easy.
Alabama: Rolling Hills and Forest
Alabama may be best known for its Talladega Speedway and motorsports. But some of the finest golf courses in the country are located there, too. You’ll find them interspersed throughout the Yellowhammer State in cities like Birmingham, Calera, Huntsville, and Mobile.
That said, let’s focus on the prestigious Timberline Golf Club in the city of Calera, the fastest-growing city in the state. Rustic views at the semi-private course at the club include wooded lots and rolling hills.
Adults and juniors can take lessons at Thompson Golf Class at Timberline, and their goal is to help you learn to play golf the best way and be a player for life. The Thompson Golf Class helps their learners achieve those goals by offering:
- Expert golf instruction taught by award-winning Thompson Golf Academy coaching staff.
- More than 60 years of golf coaching staff instruction experience.
- Small group classes & one-on-one lessons
- Club fitting and Trackman analysis.
- Free small first group classes (new students only).
- Men’s & ladies locker rooms.
The Timberline Golf Club also features a golf shop you can browse through and a bar and grill where you can relax and refresh yourself.
Arizona: The World’s Finest Golf Destination
Phoenix, Sedona, and Tucson all feature fine golf courses in the Copper State. However, no golf course list is complete without mentioning Scottsdale. Known as the ‘World’s Finest Golf Destination,’ Scottsdale offers plenty of opportunities for golfers. Plus, its geological wonders and desert wildlife make it a popular choice for golfers.
Whether you’re taking a break from swinging or exploring the natural beauty of Scottsdale, there’s always something to appreciate. The unique environment adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the golfing experience.
Scottsdale is also home to numerous golf events, including the prestigious Arizona Women’s Open. This 54-hole stroke play championship attracts both amateur and professional players. To prepare for such competitive opportunities, websites like FindGolfLessons.com can help you find golf instructors and sign up for lessons, ensuring you’re ready to participate in these exciting Arizona tournaments.
California: A Wonderland of Golfing Experiences
Business Insider rated four of California's courses among the top 25 in the nation, with Cypress Point and Pebble Beach recognized as the most beautiful. Bear in mind that Pebble Beach is also one of the most expensive golf courses in the U.S.
Other highlights in Cali include golfing under the giant redwoods near Crescent City or taking in panoramic ocean views from Morro Bay.
Top cities to include in your lesson plan include:
- Los Angeles: A hub for golf enthusiasts with numerous public and private courses.
- San Francisco: Home to innovative golf academies.
- San Diego: Known for its year-round golfing weather and excellent facilities.
- Orange County: Offers luxury golf resorts and top-tier coaching.
Let’s turn to San Diego in this section, as the historic and hip Loma Club fits the bill for budget-friendly junior and adult private lessons. With a history dating back to the early 1900s, the club features cityscape views, live music, good food, and plenty of rollicking events.
Colorado: Golfing Rocky Mountain Style
Colorado boasts an incredible variety of golf courses, from tree-lined parkland-style courses to stunning mountain courses. Fossil Trace Golf Club in Denver especially stands out for its beautiful backdrops in Autumn and frequent wildlife sightings, including elk and fox.
The Golf School at Fossil Trace Golf Club offers a range of programs, from private instruction to beginner classes, catering to golfers of all ages and abilities. They focus on creating a comfortable learning atmosphere, helping players improve their skills, knowledge, and equipment.
Additionally, Denver is home to the non-profit organization First Tee–which aims to make golf accessible to young people. First Tee focuses on teaching life skills and values through the game of golf, providing programs that emphasize character development, healthy choices, and educational opportunities. They offer various classes and clinics for juniors, creating a supportive and social environment for learning golf.
Florida: A Golfer’s Year-Round Paradise
Along with tourism, golfing is big business in Florida. In fact, the Sunshine State has more golf courses per capita than any other place in the US–A, a whopping 1400 and counting! It also hosts one of the only Caribbean golf courses in the United States: The Key West Golf Club in Key West.
The Key West Golf Club provides a "State of the Art" golfer development program for Monroe residents. In just three weeks, beginners can learn the fundamentals of golf, including grip, stance, swing, etiquette, rules, and course logistics. This comprehensive program is designed to help new golfers quickly start enjoying the game.
Don't live in Key West? Other key cities for affordable beginner lessons and extensive programs include Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, and Orlando. You can also use Golf Digest’s guide to find the best public golf courses and their associated instructors throughout the state.
Georgia: Golf Destinations That Let You Enjoy Nature
If you want to learn how to golf in The Peach State, you’ll find ample opportunities at courses ranging from pristine coastlands to the breathtaking courses in the North Georgia Mountains. Atlanta features an unbelievably rich, historic golf scene, and Georgia hosts one major tournament each year, the Masters Tournament in Augusta. The state's diverse landscapes offer a unique golfing experience that attracts players from all over.
Chicopee Woods Golf Academy (CWGA) is located within the Chicopee Woods Golf Course in North Georgia. CWGA offers a variety of individual, group, and junior golf instruction programs at affordable prices. The academy is dedicated to providing an excellent experience while helping golfers improve their skills. Using the latest technology and a comprehensive teaching model, their coaches are committed to enhancing the abilities of golfers of all levels.
Adjacent to the academy is the Elachee Nature Center, where you can enjoy nature, hike trails, and go mountain biking. Deer are often spotted on the golf course and within the Elachee Nature Center, providing a tranquil and serene view while you golf and participate in outdoor activities.
New York: Home of Resorts and Night Time Golfing
It may surprise you to learn that New York has 832 golf courses. These green courses stretch across the outskirts of Manhattan, providing the ultimate experience for golfers. Douglaston, Forest Park, and Flushing Meadows are among the best golf courses in New York City. Conversely, Flushing Meadows is the only lighted NYC course for night golfing– which is perfect for the ‘city that never sleeps!
Venturing out of the city, you can find brilliant golfing experiences, with courses set against stunning backdrops of lakes, the Adirondack Mountains, and lush forests. The state's rich landscape provides a beautiful and challenging environment for golfers.
- Turning Stone Resort – Verona, NY: Turning Stone Resort features three championship courses, a nine-hole course, and a short course, along with a casino. The resort offers luxury amenities such as a full spa, dining, and nightlife options. The New York City Tour hosts amateur tournaments at Shenandoah during the summer. Golf lessons from PGA-certified instructors are available in various packages.
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The Sagamore Resort – Bolton Landing, NY: Located on Lake George in the Adirondack Mountains, The Sagamore Resort boasts the historic Sagamore Golf Course, designed by Donald Ross. Ranked among the "Top 100 Resort Golf Courses in America" by Golfweek, this 18-hole course offers stunning lake views. The resort provides numerous amenities and family activities. Golf lessons at The Sagamore are led by PGA-certified instructors, offering one-on-one sessions and equipment assessments.
North Carolina: Top Teaching Facilities on the East Coast
Golf courses in North Carolina feature immaculate conditions and stunning layouts. Bryan Park in Greensboro, for example, resembles an enchanted forest, making it a popular wedding venue. Golf Digest rates Bryan Park as one of the "12 Best Affordable US Golf Courses/America’s Best Golf Courses Everyone Can Play."
Bryan Park is also home to the Robert Linville Precision Golf School, which offers top-notch facilities for golfers looking to improve their game. The Ernie Edwards Learning Center features two climate-controlled hitting bays and two outdoor hitting bays, equipped with the latest learning technology. This center is considered one of the top teaching facilities on the East Coast.
The 27-acre Practice and Learning Facility at Bryan Park includes over 12 acres of grass teeing area, 10 target greens, practice bunkers, and chipping areas. Open year-round, this facility is widely admired and provides golfers with everything they need to refine their skills.
Ohio: Hidden Gems to Build & Hone Your Skills
Ohio offers a diverse range of golfing experiences, from classic parkland-style courses to wetlands and rolling hills. Akron, once known as Tire City, now has several public golf courses. J.E. Good Park, or "The Park," is an 18-hole course with a mix of dog legs, undulating greens, and trees.
Windmill Lakes Golf Club in Ravenna consistently ranks as one of the best courses in the state and serves as the home course for Kent State’s men's and women's golf teams.
Headed by PGA Professional and Director of Golf, Herb Page, Windmill Lakes offers top-notch facilities and personalized instruction for beginners and low handicappers. Their comprehensive practice facilities allow for instruction in all aspects of the game, including woods, irons, chipping, putting, sand play, and course strategies.
Texas: Thriving Golf Scenes by Region
Texas has 907 golf courses ready to host golf enthusiasts. The main regions of the Lone Star State stretch across desert mountains, woods, and the seaside. Everything is bigger in Texas, including the size of the state itself. To cover everything properly, we’ve divided Texas into five parts and included examples of popular golf courses there that offer coaching:
- Houston and East Texas: Memorial Park Golf Course and Driving Range in Houston is a top choice, and it’s known for its convenient location less than six miles west of downtown. It is one of the two municipally owned courses on the PGA Tour and host of the Houston Open. PGA of America Member instructors provide lessons and have websites where you can book sessions or purchase gift certificates.
- West Texas and the Panhandle: El Paso-based Butterfield Trail Golf Club is a spectacular desert track in the foothills of the Franklin Mountains. The course spans 7,307 yards with gentle elevation changes, rolling terrain, and glistening blue ponds. Their golf school offers personalized instruction and cutting-edge technology designed to help players of all levels learn and improve their technique.
- San Antonio and South Texas: LaCantera Golf has received several national and local accolades. The course sits on 7,001 acres, and you can even see a roller coaster from a few of its holes. You can sign up for any of their four different classes to learn everything from the basics to fine tuning your technique.
- Austin and the Hill Country: Unlike many other establishments, the Harvey Penick Golf Academy is a fully dedicated facility. In other words, there will be no one on the course who isn’t part of a class. Even better, they’ve been in business for more than 30 years, so you can rest assured that they know what they’re doing.
- North Texas: With dramatic elevation changes and mature oaks, the redesigned Stevens Park provides enough of a challenge for experienced golfers. However, it’s still fun enough for beginners too! If you’re looking for private or group lessons, they offer PGA-trained professional golfers to teach you each aspect of golfing, ranging from the mental game to picking the right equipment.
Best Free Online Video Golf Lessons
For those who prefer learning at their own pace, online golf lessons can be an excellent resource. Here are some of the best recommendations:
- MeAndMyGolf: Good for their detailed and easily followed instructional videos.
- 3 Golf Swing Tips that Cover 90 Percent of Golf Lessons: Like the title suggests, this video offers lessons that cover almost all aspects of the game.
- Golf Channel Academy: Provides tips from various PGA professionals.
Although they are not free, there are a lot of inexpensive must-have apps for beginning golfers like Nike Golf 360 and Golf Match. The same goes for beginner golfing books, but try your local library before heading to Amazon. A lot of times they have golfing books you can get for the price of a library card.
The Takeaways
Signing up for the right golf lessons is a fantastic way to improve your game and set the right foundation for a lifetime of enjoyment. It doesn’t matter whether you choose a local coach, online golf lessons, or free videos. What’s truly important is to start practicing! Be sure to look through the many tips and resource links provided above and choose whatever type of lesson will work best for you.
TRUEENERGY® can help ensure you’re able to keep enjoying the game. Our line of men’s and women’s golf socks have been specially formulated to reduce blisters and chafing. They also have infrared technology and offer mild compression, which allows you to keep golfing while others have already limped home. Purchase yourself a pair today to experience the many benefits of using well-fitted socks!
FAQs
What is the best way for a beginner to learn golf?
Taking lessons from a professional instructor, practicing regularly at a driving range, and playing on a course are the best ways for a beginner to learn golf.
What do you do in your first golf lesson?
You learn basics at first, that includes aspects such as grip, stance, posture, and proper alignment. Also, your coach or trainer will assess your skill level and teach you basic swing technique.
When to start golf lessons?
Parents with kids can sign them up for golf lessons as early as five-years-old and even earlier if they show an interest in it. Early instruction helps develop good habits and avoid common mistakes. These instructions can continue all through their life.
Also, whether you are young or old, you can pick up the sport. Just make sure you pick the instruction that fits your learning style.
How should a beginner golf swing?
A beginner should focus on a proper grip, stance, and smooth follow-through. Keep your eyes on the ball and practice regularly to refine your technique.
How often should I take golf lessons as a beginner?
It's recommended to start with weekly lessons to build a solid foundation and then adjust based on your progress and availability.
Are group lessons or private lessons better for beginners?
Both have their benefits. Group lessons are often more affordable and can provide a social aspect, while private lessons offer personalized attention and tailored instruction.