The number of rules in the game of golf can be intimidating, especially to a beginner. For the casual or amateur golfer, no one expects them to know each and every single rule. The basics of not only the rules, but of golf etiquette as well should be reviewed. If you have any doubts about behavior, try to observe the senior players around you for some hints.

Read through not only the rules, but the rules of the particular course that you will be playing most often. Although the golf rules are the same, there are some subtle differences in certain areas of play amongst the different courses.  For instance, some golf courses will only allow certain types of shoes, while others are a little lenient with such things.

After you familiarize yourself with the basic rules, you should then take the time to learn the scoring process. If you will be playing against someone, especially if you are in a tournament type of play, you will be required to keep your opponent’s score. How embarrassed would you be if you have to admit that you do not know how to do it?

Along with the rules of the game, are the rules of behavior while playing the game. Golf etiquette is as important to learn as the rules are, so that you do not make a blunder during your round of play. While golf etiquette is basically common sense, the basics do bear repeating.  These include: not talking while another golfer is teeing up a shot, being ready to play when it is your own turn, knowing who gets the first shot on each hole, knowing where all of your group is before you take your initial swing, and do not tear up the golf course without making some effort to repair and restore it.

 
Try to keep a sense of sportsmanship about your game, no matter how badly that you are playing for that afternoon. Keep mindful of the people that are all around you, and try to avoid using foul or unpleasant language. (Some clubs and resorts do have regulation about this.) Do not lose your temper and throw your clubs or other gear. Be adult, be gracious, be a good sport.

     And finally, several rules that every golfer should know, no matter what level of play they are at:

1) The ball that you tee up is the ball you must play all the way to that hole, unless another stated rule allows for a substitution.
2) Make sure that the ball that you are playing is in fact, your ball. Each player should id his or her balls with a unique marking.
3) Play the ball where it lies. (No kicking, bumping, tossing or otherwise improving position.)
4) An unplayable ball will present you with three options. Those are: playing from where you hit your last shot, drop a ball within 2 club lengths of where the ball is now, or keep the point where the ball is between you and the ball and drop a ball on that line.  All three options will incur a one stroke penalty.

Anonymous
http://www.puttergolfclubguide.com

Funny how whenever you start talking golf, eventually someone will start quoting actor Chevy Chase’s best lines from Caddyshack.  After encouraging his young costar to “be the ball” Chase then goes into a series of putt shots, sinking all but one. Okay, technically, he kicks on, but the point is made: the putt is one of the more individual shots of the game of golf. The long drive swing is basically the same the world around, but putts are something different altogether.  Putts can be a testament to your nerves and determination- you have to feel your way through a putt.  On a long drive, you can swing forth, aiming for a basically long flying, fairly straight shot and then correct from there, but the putt is in the danger zone so to speak. Once you have got down to the putt, you are done with the adjusting and tweaking portion of the hole. Now is the time to sink the ball into the hole, however you feel that you can do that.

Of course, you know that the swing is different from the long drive to the putt, but did you know that the grip is different as well?  Basically, without getting too technical about it: your putt grip is in the palms of your hands, reducing hand movement. With the long drive, the grip is in your fingers, allowing more wrist freedom.  Of course, if you have no idea of what your grip looks like, it might be worth it to grab a club, a broom stick or something similar, grip as usual and then stand in the mirror to observe yourself. Look at your hand position. Take a mock swing and note the sensation of movement. Now, roll the club more toward the palm of your hand and swing again. Can you feel the difference in the feeling and movements that you get with this adjustment? Practice both grips as much as possible- both the long drive swing and the putt are integral parts of the golf game.

If you are working with a golf pro, follow any advice they might have for you. Do they want you to focus on learning the initial swing first, or the putt? (Some pros feel that switching back and forth will not allow for full focus on either.) Remember though, that once you learn the mechanics of the putt itself, there is some wiggle room with grip- find the grip that is most comfortable and most effective for you.  And remember, whenever you are approaching a putt: take a deep breath, use the best grip for your own style and try to always be…Chevy Chase.

Anonymous
http://puttergolfclubguide.com

 Golf is supposed to be a pleasant outing, a fun way to keep fit, and an interesting hobby. What it is not supposed to be, however, is painful. Taking the extra time to warm up and stretch properly before playing, keeping mindful of body position during the game and then stretching and cooling off afterward are all just as important as your swing. Make sure that you understand the mechanics of the game of golf itself and what body parts are involved for your swing and your follow through so that you will know how to strengthen those muscles and protect yourself. 

Of course you know that your upper body is involved, especially during your swing and follow through. There are many golf specific workouts available that will not only employ strength training, (weights) but stretches and yoga poses that are meant to give the best range of motion, stability and flexibility, no matter what level your golf game currently is. Be sure that you get your doctor’s permission and recommendation before beginning any new fitness routines, and then follow the guidelines for frequency and intensities. 

Your core is just as important as your upper body for your golf game, perhaps even more so in the early days of playing. A strong, well-conditioned core will aid in balance as well as protect your lower back during your windup, swing and release. If you have ever tweaked your back during a twist, you will know right away how important a strong core is. Abdominal exercise routines do not have to be hour-long affairs, but are an important part of your golf preparation. 

And finally, you know how important your lower body is to a good golf game. You are standing on your legs for each swing, and walking frequently, even if you use a golf-cart. (If you are golfing for fitness, the golf cart should remain at the clubhouse!) Strong thigh muscles will allow for stability in your stance and will allow you more power for your swings and long drives. Think of your legs as the starting point of your swing, and imagine yourself drawing power up from your quadriceps, through your core and up into your arms and shoulders, traveling into the forearm and out through the shaft of your club. Proper fitness will give you more strength, a better game and a more enjoyable outing. 

Author Unknown

http://puttergolfclubguide.com