I’m Thinking About Golf

Thinking about giving golf a try but not sure where to begin? You’re in the right place.

You do not need expensive equipment, a perfect swing or any previous experience to get started. This guide will help you decide whether golf suits you, understand the likely costs, choose between the driving range and golf course, and work out what equipment you actually need.

By the end, you’ll know your next step.

Is golf right for you?

Golf may suit you if you enjoy being outdoors, learning a skill, spending time with friends, or challenging yourself at your own pace.

You do not need to be especially young, athletic or competitive. Golf can be played socially or seriously, and there are many different ways to enjoy it.

You might enjoy golf because it offers:

  • A social activity with friends or family
  • Gentle exercise and time outdoors
  • A skill you can improve over many years
  • Friendly competition
  • Solo practice when you want time to yourself
  • Different formats, including ranges, simulators, short courses and full courses

Golf might not suit everyone

Golf can require patience. Improvement is rarely immediate, and even experienced golfers hit poor shots.

It may be less suitable if you strongly dislike slower-paced activities or become frustrated when a skill takes time to develop.

However, you do not need to commit to becoming a golfer immediately. Your first goal is simply to try it.

Beginner reassurance box

You do not have to be good at golf to enjoy golf.

Most beginners start by hitting a small bucket of balls at a driving range. Nobody expects perfect shots.

Button:
Read the Full Guide: Is Golf for Me?

Suggested image

A first-time golfer at a driving range smiling after making contact with the ball.

 

What does golf cost?

How much does it cost to start golf?

Golf can be expensive, but starting does not need to be.

The biggest mistake is buying everything before you know whether you enjoy the game.

A low-cost first experience

A beginner can usually start with:

  • Hired or borrowed clubs
  • One bucket of range balls
  • Comfortable clothing
  • Runners or sports shoes

You do not need a membership, a full club set or premium golf balls for your first attempt.

Typical beginner expenses

 

ItemBest beginner approachClubsBorrow, hire or buy second-handDriving rangePay for one bucket of ballsGolf lessonOptional, but usefulClothingWear comfortable, course-appropriate clothesShoesRunners are fine for many beginner experiencesGolf ballsUse inexpensive or second-hand ballsCourse feeStart with nine holes or a public course

 

What should you avoid buying immediately?

Do not rush into buying:

  • A premium driver
  • Fourteen clubs
  • A rangefinder
  • Expensive golf balls
  • A large cart bag
  • Specialist clothing for every weather condition

Try golf first. Buy equipment gradually as your needs become clearer.

Button:
Read: How Much Does It Cost to Start Golf?

Suggested image

A simple comparison image showing borrowed clubs, second-hand clubs and a new beginner package set.

 

 

 

 

Driving range or golf course?

Where should a complete beginner start?

For most people, the best first step is the driving range.

A driving range lets you practise hitting balls without worrying about scoring, losing balls, holding up other golfers or knowing every course rule.

Start at the driving range if:

  • You have never swung a club
  • You want a relaxed first experience
  • You are nervous about playing in front of others
  • You want to practise without keeping score
  • You only have an hour available

Start on a golf course if:

  • You are playing with an experienced and patient golfer
  • You understand basic safety and etiquette
  • You choose a beginner-friendly short course
  • You are comfortable picking up your ball when necessary
  • You are happy to focus on enjoyment rather than score

The easiest beginner pathway

  1. Visit a driving range.
  2. Try a beginner lesson or practise with an experienced friend.
  3. Play a short course or nine holes.
  4. Progress to a full round when you feel ready.

What about golf simulators?

A simulator can also be a good introduction, especially when the weather is poor. It can feel less intimidating than a course and often allows you to hire clubs.

Button:
Compare: Driving Range vs Golf Course

Suggested image

A split image: driving range on the left and a beginner-friendly short golf course on the right.

Beyond the ordinary

This is where our journey begins. Get to know our business and what we do, and how we're committed to quality and great service. Join us as we grow and succeed together. We're glad you're here to be a part of our story.

This is where our journey begins. Get to know our business and what we do, and how we're committed to quality and great service. Join us as we grow and succeed together. We're glad you're here to be a part of our story.

What equipment do I need?

What does a new golfer actually need?

Much less than most people think.

For your first driving-range visit, you may only need:

  • One or two hired clubs
  • Comfortable clothes
  • Runners
  • A bottle of water
  • A glove, if you want one

The range usually supplies the balls.

Clubs for your first practice

A beginner does not need every type of club immediately.

A simple starting selection could include:

  • One mid-iron, such as a 7-iron
  • One wedge
  • One putter
  • A driver later, once you are comfortable

The 7-iron is often a practical first club because it is easier to control than a driver and can help you learn basic contact.

Equipment for your first round

For a first short round, consider taking:

  • A small set of clubs
  • Inexpensive golf balls
  • Tees
  • A ball marker
  • A pitch-mark repair tool
  • Water
  • Sun protection
  • Weather-appropriate clothing

You do not need fourteen clubs.

Beginner buying rule

Borrow first. Buy second-hand next. Upgrade later.

That approach saves money and gives you time to discover what type of clubs suit you.

Button:
Read: What Golf Equipment Do Beginners Need?

Suggested image

A beginner starter kit laid out clearly: 7-iron, wedge, putter, glove, tees and a few inexpensive balls.

Beyond the ordinary

This is where our journey begins. Get to know our business and what we do, and how we're committed to quality and great service. Join us as we grow and succeed together. We're glad you're here to be a part of our story.

Discover how to position your lead hand correctly for power and control. We break it down into easy, actionable steps.

Learn the simplest way to integrate your trail hand, ensuring both hands work together effectively without tension.

Checking your grip

Quick tips to check if your grip is spot on. A good grip feels natural and gives you confidence over the ball.

Your journey to better golf starts here

At The New Golfer, we're dedicated to helping you build a solid foundation. Our approach simplifies the learning process, ensuring you develop good habits from day one. Get ready to enjoy the game with confidence!

Simple and effective instruction

Our goal is to make learning golf as easy as possible. This guide focuses on the most straightforward and effective grip method, perfect for absolute beginners. We avoid overwhelming you with multiple options, presenting a clear path to a consistent and powerful hold on your club.

What's next after your grip?

Once you're comfortable with your grip, the next logical step in your golf journey is to learn about your stance and setup. A proper grip combined with a good stance will dramatically improve your swing consistency and overall game. We've got you covered for the next stage!