An Beginners’s Guide To Playing Golf
There is no question when people come up with the word green upon hearing the term golf. After all, what they usually see on television is a wide expanse of neatly manicured playing field. The field, or golf course, is not a standardized playing area. Obviously, this means that when compared to other equally famous ball games, golf can be played in uniquely designed fields. The only constant thing is the number of holes, which is a toss between 9 and 18 holes.
Competing players are more popularly known as golfers and they use various kinds of clubs in hitting a ball into a hole. The objective is simple. Try to hit the ball into the hole using the lowest possible number of strokes. It can be played either as an individual or team sport, depending on the rules of the competition.
One round of golf consists of 9 or 18 holes, played in a particular order. Typically, one round involves 18 holes. Unfortunately, if you are playing on a nine-hole course, you have to complete two successive nine-hole rounds in order to accomplish the task. This sounds like a tall order, right?
How does the game begin? Well, the golfer has to hit the ball from the teeing box, which is what the starting point is called. Then, he uses a drive, or a long distance shot across the fairway so that the ball can travel for a very long distance. When the ball comes to a stop, the golfer can choose from among a number of strokes for his follow up. It could be a lay-up, an approach or a green. When the golf ball approaches the nearest area near the hole, a putt is performed.
Do you think the whole process sounds uncomplicated? The answer may be a yes or a no, depending on the overall condition. The drawback is if you will encounter major obstacles like a rough, or areas of long grass, a bunker and the notorious water hazard. They are dreaded because they pose a very challenging time for any player. Then there is also the probability that a heavy wind and a short rain can interfere with your concentration. For professional players, they still have to consider the cheering and jeering of the crowd.
Golfers can choose between two options as they travel the course. They can either walk or drive in motorized carts. They can also play alone or enjoy the time with their friends and helpers. A typical helper is a caddy. Aside from accompanying the player, they also carry and manage the golfer’s equipment. Veteran caddies can even give insights to beginning players on how to improve their craft.
Golfers usually don a preppy cotton shirt paired with a pair of lightweight shorts. They include the ubiquitous sun visor as a protection. When the cold season arrives, they usually opt for a pair of slacks and thick jacket to keep them from feeling chilly. For those who foresee a light drizzle, a cap is brought along in preparation. The more health conscious ones bring a sturdy umbrella for better protection.
Playing golf has many advantages. It is a good exercise for the body because it stretches and tones the torso. It is also a good cardiovascular workout especially if one walks briskly from one hole to another. The clean air in the course is also good for the respiratory system. In addition, it can bring about relaxation because one can muse or meditate in the wide expanse of the fairway.
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