Every golfer has posed this question at some point in their lives. “Should I get golf lessons? Are golf lessons worth it?”
This happens for some people early in their golf journey. For others, it’s not until things are going bad and you’re at the driving range clueless on what to work on.
Learning lessons early in your golf journey can help you build solid foundations and avoid common mistakes. But a lot of golfers, especially male, tend to “swing their swing” and get tune up lessons with golf professionals vs. building a fundamentally sound swing.
Today we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting golf lessons and how to find an instructor.
Should I take golf lessons? Should I hire a professional golf instructor?
In 25 years of playing golf I’ve had all types of golf lessons. From full swing, short game, course management, and mental game lessons (such as hypnotherapy).
I can confidently say that lessons in golf can greatly speed up your learning process. However, lessons are not always for all players. Plus, they aren’t cheap sometimes so it’s best to make sure you’re in the right place in your journey to ask someone for help.
Continue reading to find out if your skills are up to the task of learning a few lessons, or if you should just stick with YouTube Universitys tips.
Key Takeaways on Taking Golf Lessons
- A lesson in golf can be done remotely or at the course or driving range.
- Golf lessons can cost from $50 to $500 an hour, depending on who your coach is.
- A coach can help you master the basics of golf and develop good habits.
- Instructors can help you with more than just your swing, such as short game, putting and course management. Plus, you can play golf with them for an “on course” lesson.
Keep reading to figure out if you’re the type of person who should get golf lessons or should wait until a late date.
You’re a Committed Golfer
Some golfers enjoy shooting in the 100s while having fun. While others fall in love with golf and want to break 100, then break 90, then break 80, or even become a scratch 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. This is even more important in the beginning of your journey as an instructor can help with golf etiquette, find the right golf ball, and more.
You Can Have Your Own Golf Clubs
Commitment is key to having your own set of clubs. If you need to borrow a set to go to your first golf lesson it’s not a great idea for instruction (yet).
Instead, you should have your own set for beginners and have used them before learning lessons. If you have some “data” about your swing (ex. Missing it left, topping shots, etc.) This can make it easier for your instructor. Before signing up for assistance, make sure to invest in your golf clubs.
Click here to view some of our favorite beginner clubs, before you start your golf instruction.
- Callaway Strata – Complete Set for Beginners
- The Best Irons for Beginners & High Handicappers
You’re Open to New Ideas
During a lesson, one of my first golf coaches stated this: “If it doesn’t feel awkward, you aren’t doing it right.” Uncomfortableness is part and parcel of learning when you hire a professional golfer to improve your swing.
You’ll have to try different practice drills, swings, training aids, and grips to learn the lesson your coach is trying to teach. To get results, your coach will have to find the best style for you.
This means you will fail your way to success. Sort of like going to a gym, it’s going to feel uncomfortable Before it feels comfortable.
There will be many bad shots along the way to becoming a good golfer. This can also mean that you might experience some setbacks and slumps.
An instructor can be a great help as long as you have a positive attitude and are open-minded to new ideas. They can help you build a solid foundation and improve your swing mechanics.
You have enough time
You can learn golf lessons to help you get through the steep learning curve. However, lessons are only the beginning of your golfing journey. It is important to continue practicing and put in the practice.
Golf lessons are like hiring a gym trainer. Although you might only work with them once a week, it is important to continue training the rest of the week as well as eating healthy to see results.
The same goes with golf – you must put in the reps in practice to see results. A common mistake made by golfers is to believe that lessons can create a great swing. They can be helpful and encourage good habits, but they are not the only thing that can help you improve your game.
Repetition is the mother of all mastery – especially in golf. To be consistent with your swing, you will need a lot of practice at the driving range. A coach is a great option if you have the time and desire to practice between lessons.
You need help with a tricky issue
While some golfers start with a local pro as soon as they can, many wait for years or even decades before seeking out an instructor. But if you’re struggling with a specific issue like pop up shots, ball flight issues (pushes/pulls), or something else, an instructor can help.
Plus, don’t forget that instructors can also help with course management, mental game strategies, and short game lessons too. These are important, even if you have a strong swing. A weak mental or short game can lead directly to high scores.
Golf is a game where you must put everything together and make smart decisions in order to be successful. Even if you don’t need a full swing lesson, don’t be afraid to get help on other parts of the game too.
Finding a golf coach
If you have decided it’s time to get lessons to improve your golf game, it’s time to find a coach. There are many coaches to choose from, but you should do your research and not rush to make a decision. It is best to work together for a long time in order to achieve the best results.
Jumping from coach to coach is one of the worst things. It’s inevitable that one coach will conflict with the other about grip, takeaway, or something else and leave you feeling confused.
Too much information isn’t a good thing in golf!
These are some things to consider when youre thinking about hiring a coach.
- Remote vs. In-person: Would you like the opportunity to work with this person at your club, or to record your swing and send it off to an instructor online? Some golfers like “figuring it out themselves” and prefer the flexibility of remote lessons. Other golfers prefer to have a one-on-1 interaction and learn better in person.
- Group vs. 1:1 lessonsA group lesson is a better option than a one-on-one lesson. Group lessons are a great way for beginners to learn fundamentals such as grip, stance and posture. Plus, it’s a good way to learn with a friend and hold each other accountable in practice.
These are just a few of the factors that you should consider when choosing a golf coach. To learn more and find the right instructor for your game, make sure to read, “How to Pick a Golf Coach” now.
FAQs about Golf Lessons and Instructors
Are you interested in learning more about how to get lessons or finding a golf instructor for your game? Continue reading if you have more questions about getting lessons or finding an instructor for your game.
How many lessons do you need to be a good golfer?
Lessons in golf can help you build a solid foundation for your swing, and prevent common mistakes early in your journey. But more lessons doesn’t automatically mean better golf or faster results.
It’s what you do outside of your lesson time that matters most. We recommend that you only hire an instructor if your schedule allows for some time to work on your game between lessons. Otherwise, it’s not the best way to spend your money.
Do I need to take lessons or fit my club first?
These lessons can be viewed as a 1-2 punch. Golf swing changes can take a long time to become automatic so don’t be afraid of getting fit and taking lessons at the same time. It’s very unlikely that your game will change so quickly that you need new clubs (if only it was that easy).
Custom-fit clubs can make the game much easier. Your clubs will improve your chances of hitting the ball well and help you score lower scores if they have the right shafts, lie angle and other settings. Don’t make golf courses harder with hard to hit equipment!
Are you able to improve your game of golf without lessons?
Yes, many of the most successful golfers in the world are self-taught. Others like Justin Thomas, Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson are self-taught golfers.
What percentage of golfers learn from lessons?
There arent as many golfers out there as you might think. According to the National Golf FoundationIn 2018, four million golfers took lessons
This represents approximately 17% percent of all golfers.
The study concluded that “More than 75 percent 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 revealed that:
- 64% of golfers view instruction online via Instagram, YouTube, and other social media platforms.
- 77% of all golfers are males, and they make up the majority of those who take lessons. However, women are more likely to take lessons than men (can’t say I’m surprised there as men tend to be more stubborn).
- Lessons in groups are more popular with women than they are with men.
- 25% of all lessons are given through group lessons.
How much should I pay for lessons in golf?
It depends on many factors such as remote vs. local, 1:1 lessons vs. group lessons and playing lessons vs. range lesson. Prices for 45-60-minute lessons can range from $50 up to $500 depending on where you live and the instructor.
A coach who works with PGA players will also teach elite amateurs lessons. If you can find a local pro at the driving range, they might cost $50-$100. A club pro at a country clubs is usually somewhere in between.
Final Thoughts on Golf Lessons to Improve Your Game
Are they really worth the price?
Yes, golf lessons can make this complex game a little easier, especially if you’re a beginner golfer. Not to mention help you get out of a golf slump if you’re struggling with a certain miss on the golf course.
Golf lessons are great but not for everyone. If you meet these criteria, it is time to start looking for instructors.
- You can start your own clubs.
- Committed to improving.
- Always open to learning new methods.
- You want to improve your mental and short game.
- To avoid overloading with information, you should be willing to follow the same instructor.
- Make sure you have enough time to practice the drills between lessons.
These lesson tips can help you find the right teacher and take your game up a notch.
Do you get regular lessons? Did you start your golf journey with lessons?
Wed love to hear from you in the comments. Are you ready for improvement? Check out these top-rated articles:
- Mental Attitude in Golf
- How to Work with a Sports Psychologist
- How to Break 90 without swing changes