Playing Golf 101

Posted by | Posted on 12:29 AM

By Amarea Fulkakis

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.

The players are more fondly called as golfer and they employ different kinds of clubs in trying to hit a ball into a hole. The goal is just like any other ball game, which is to make the ball enter the hole. This should be achieved using the lowest possible number of strokes. One can play by his lonesome or he can invite his peers for a team effort, depending on the situation.

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?

The game begins when the player hits the ball from the teeing box. The initial stroke that is carried out is called as a drive. Basically, this is a long distance shot made in order for the ball to travel down the fairway. When the ball has come to a halt, the golfer may strike it again with either of the following options: a lay-up, an approach or a green. The finishing stroke is called a putt and it is done when the ball is really near the hole. This is usually a very exciting part of the game.

The entire process may sound easy. Unfortunately, if you are beset by potential problems like a rough, or areas of long grass, a bunker and the notorious water hazard, you will certainly have a challenging task ahead. Add to that the heavy wind, the rains and for professional players, the cheering and jeering of the crowd and you have one hell of a circus.

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.

A lot of golfers sport a simple top paired with a pair of cotton shorts and a sun visor. This is a no-frills get up. When the rainy season comes, one can don for a pair of comfortable pants and thick jacket to keep warm. A good cap may also be used to protect the head from a light drizzle. There are those who like to be prepared and bring an umbrella for cover.

There are many advantages of playing golf. The health reasons include its flexibility factor. Since swinging allows one to stretch, his overall flexibility improves. The same is true for his cardiovascular workout because the heart pumps blood to all parts of the body in an efficient manner if one walks fast from one place to another. Moreover, the refreshing air in the course can bring a calming effect especially to those who are stressed out from all the tension experienced in the office.

About the Author:

Comments (0)