We’ve all the seen the incredibly long yet accurate drives of Tiger Woods. The ball flies through the air and lands in the middle of the fairway, 300 yards away.

It is difficult not to let jealousy rise in us as we wonder if we could ever dare to hope to drive like that. Luckily, long drives are not the crux of the game of golf.

Enter the short game for without good short game skills, all the long drives are not worth a light.

We call the ‘short game’ those shots that get you onto the green from roughly a hundred feet away from the hole, no matter whether it’s from the fairway, a bunker, the rough or a drop zone. It includes all chips, sand shots and pitches.

In this middle stage of the game, you use the higher numbered clubs, your pitching iron and sand wedge or lob wedge more often.

Most golf courses have practice areas as well as a driving range. You should spend some time working on hitting the ball onto the green from different distances. Aim for a ten-foot circle in the center of the green at first. Experiment using your wedges, but what works for someone else, might not work for you and your particular swing.

After you have got into the habit of being able to perform this skill consistently, it’s time to start practising in a sand bunker. Being able to get the ball out of a bunker can cut your score dramatically.

The way to do it is to plant your feet firmly in the sand with your left foot turned to face the hole. See an imaginary 4-inch circle around the ball and try to hit the outer edge of that circle.

Take lots of sand with your ball and swing through completely. Don’t decelerate at all when or after you hit the ball. It should pop up onto the green and stop. This doesn’t work well though unless the sand is dry, soft and powdery. On hard surfaces, you might need to avoid actually hitting the sand at all.

However, as in all aspects of the game of golf, only practice will help you to improve your score.

Are you new to golf? We have some great our website at tips for the beginner golfer on our website at Golfing Tips for Beginners This article, Golfing For Novices: Part Four is available for free reprint.

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11 November 2011 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

Owning your own golf putting mat is expensive; however, it is worth an investment because this is a great way to maximize your golf experience and play at the ease of your home.

Your putting gets better with practice. But there are many different putting aids available that can help you quickly master the art of putting.

Golf putting is an important part of your game, almost about 40-50 percent. This is why if you master this skill then you will sure be a successful golfer. For that to happen, you will just have to continue your practice for some good number of hours every week on an indoor putting mat.

Putting is not only the most important part of the game as it comprises about forty to fifty percent of the total game, but it also is a difficult skill to learn. The only way you can get better is with experience and with vigorous practice.

As a professional golfer will surely agree on this point that it is not that easy of an art to learn. It requires a lot of skill and practice that comes with time and efforts invested into the game.

Indoor golf putting requires a lot of practice and training. To know it perfectly, you must learn and be aware of putting basics, you should also learn putting techniques and etiquette to be able to feel at ease. Other things that you need to learn include reading putting greens, estimating putting distance and direction etc.

So now that it is crystal clear that putting requires practice and that it is immensely important, you might want to consider spending some money into buying an excellent quality golf putting mat. Once you have owned the mat you can enjoy your favorite game in you own home, whenever you like.

As far as the price is concerned of these Indoor golf putting mats, so like everything else they come in varying qualities with different prices. So you should consider a mat that fits your budget and the size of your room just as well.

Enjoy more of this author’s tips about subjects including golf practice mats and Born Golfers.

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07 July 2011 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

A lot of debate has gone on concerning the history of golfing, long traditionally believed to have started in the area surrounding the Firth of Forth in Scotland. A golfing-like game is recorded as taking place on 26 February 1297, in the Netherlands, where the Dutch played a game with a stick and leather ball.

However, contemporary research into the history of golf has uncovered references to a game very comparable to modern day golfing being played in China during the period of the Southern Tang dynasty, at least 500 years before golf was first documented in Scotland.

It has been suggested that the game was first taken to Europe and later Scotland by Mongolian travellers in the later Middle Ages.

In Scotland the first recorded documentary evidence for golf was in an act of the Scottish parliament in 1457 which prohibited the playing of ?gowf? and football in case they detract from the necessary military exercise of archery practice. In a subsequent ban of 1491 golfing was described as ‘an unprofitable sport’!. Something which Tiger Woods is probably ignorant of!

There are reports in the accounts of a Scottish lawyer, Sir John Foulis of Ravelston, that he played golf at Musselburgh Links on 2 March 1672, and this has been accepted as proving that The Old Links, Musselburgh, is the oldest golf course in the world. Mary, Queen of Scots is supposed to have played there in 1567.

The Company of Gentlemen Golfers, later renamed The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers set down the oldest existing rules of golfing in 1744. Their “Articles and Laws in Playing at Golf, known as the Leith Rules, after the course at which they played sustain the club’s claim to be the world?s first golf club, though an almanac published around a century later is the first record of a rival claim that The Royal Burgess Golf Society had been set up in 1735.

The directions in the Leith Rules formed the basis for all subsequent codes, for instance requiring that “Your Tee must be upon the ground” and “You are not to change the Ball which you strike off the Tee”

When King James VI of Scotland became King James I of England in 1603 the spread of golfing to become a world wide sport commenced. He and his courtiers played golf at Blackheath, London, from which the Royal Blackheath Golf Club traces its beginning.

The spread of golf world wide was started by Scottish soldiers, expatriates and emigrants who took the sport to British colonies and elsewhere.

The Royal Calcutta Golf Club (1829) and the club at Pau (1856) in south western France are significant reminders of these trips and are the oldest golf clubs outside of the British Isles and the oldest in continental Europe respectively.

Proof of early golfing in the United States includes an advertisement published in the Royal Gazette of New York City in 1779 for golfing clubs and balls, and the notice of the annual general meeting for a golf club in Savannah printed in the Georgia Gazette in 1796.

However, as in England, it was not until the late 19th century that golf began to be firmly established. There are a number of competing claims to be the oldest club, but what is not contested is that in 1894 representatives from the Newport Country Club, Saint Andrew’s Golf Club, Yonkers, New York, The Country Club, Chicago Golf Club, and Shinnecock Hills Golf Club met in New York City to kind what was to become the United States Golf Association (USGA).

Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on lots of topics, but is at present concerned with the London 2012 Olympics mascot. Click a link if you are interested in the 2012 London Olympics Volunteers.

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07 July 2011 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

Playing outdoor games has been one form of recreation and relaxation for many people. One example is golf wherein the body gets the stretching that it needs but does cause too much energy wasting. Since the birth of golf, a wide range of land field and a good weather condition are the basic requirements aside from the materials. Nowadays, even if the climate is not suitable for outdoor games, you may still be able to play due to the invention of golf simulators.

The enclosure is a little costly since it is technology-based but the price is quite reasonable for the multiple advantages that it can bring.

Firstly, if you have a house with a large space capable of handling the indoor simulator, you will be given the chance to play golf right into your own place and at any time of the day. So whenever you feel like you need some sort of recreation, no need to worry about the climate that usually affects outdoor activities.

Your space will definitely look like an actual playing field. The enclosure has a green carpet and a large screen that can give you a replica of how a real golf court looks. It has sensors that are capable of changing your environment as well.

How does it happen? This is because the enclosure has sensors that can change the set up based on your preferences.

In addition, you will be in charge of uncontrollable variables in outdoors games like wind, rain, sun, time of the day and length of grass. It is very amazing, right? Enclosures also can give you access to these variables.

As I said, you may engage with this activity at any time of the day making you capable of enhancing your golfing skills. You may practice more often so that in the actual game with your friends or co-workers, they will be amazed with your improvements.

With the above stated advantages, I must say that an indoor golf simulator is indeed a good investment.

Check out more of this author’s advice about subjects such as golf simulators and golf simulators for sale.

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06 June 2011 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

We all realize that we ought to exercise. Some individuals even like doing it, but unfortunately for society and most of us in it, the majority of us cannot be bothered to get off their backsides, which is why the populations of Western countries are turning to lard before our very eyes. This is a shame not just for the people involved but for the tax-payers who have to refill the public coffers in order to take care of them when they get sick.

So, how can we motivate ourselves to take more exercise? Clearly government health warnings are merely benefiting advertising agencies and the media, so what else? Maybe, they should tell us: ‘Play tennis once a week, you will enjoy that vodka a whole lot more afterwards!’. Or ‘Play a round of golf first and that G&T will taste better!’ Or: ‘Walk a mile to the pub, have a pint, walk back and have another one, you will need it!’ The puritanical way definitely has not worked, so why not give realism a try?

I mentioned golf there more or less by accident, but it strikes me that going for a game of golf and having a drink with your friends later is a whole lot better than watching it on TV with a can. It is not only the walking either, which most of us do not do enough of anyway, but it is the actions involved with hitting the ball – the swing and hand-eye co-ordination as well. And the social life afterwards, and loads of people miss out on a social life especially after retirement or the death of a spouse.

Now golf may not appear to you to be an interesting sport and I understand that point of view whole-heartedly, but that is because it is not until you realize how difficult it is to hit that ball hundreds of yards onto the green that most people can understand the difficulty of playing the game well. That might be true of most sports, but golf does look so unhurried, does it not?

One of the good things about golf is that you can play with people of similar ability to yourself so that you do not feel self-conscious or ‘out of place’. If you join a ramblers’ club after 30 years of watching TV, you will soon feel old and past it, but golf is not the same, because there is no pace, no hurry, you can take as long as you like, you can let others ‘play through’ (go on before you) and you can call it a day and retire to the club house whenever you want.

Many retired people take up golf, particularly if they were used to being active at work, but it is also a hobby, that you can take up if you feel that you are not active enough at any age. It is surprising how much a little bit of extra exercise can help stave off stiff limbs and chubbiness.

If you are asking yourself: Is golf a good method of exercise? Or if you are just into golf, please go along to our website entitled Golfing Tips for Beginners

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06 June 2011 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

You might be a golf fanatic and you know how demanding the game is on your patience and concentration. You also might be aware of the impact the miniature golf sets have had on people. You can get this popular set that fits your back yard too. In fact this has become a major recreational activity. Even hotels and resorts today have gone in for these sets to entice crowds.

Golf players might not seem very pleased with the idea of going in to a hotel to play or waiting for the next vacation to get on to the course. This set is perfectly suited for you. Find a suitable space in your house which can host the set such as a garden or a back yard and then set up the set. A manual is provided with setting up instructions.

Miter box with backsaw, Drill or driver, spring clamps, plastic drop cloth, utility knife, framing square, hacksaw are a few tools that you will need in order to set up your personal golf course.

Medium density fiber boards are also quite essential in your course. They maintain a steady roll of the golf ball as they provide an even surface. These boards can be bought in various shapes and sizes based on your requirement.

Now the next step is to cover the entire course with green colored felt and attach additional pipe fittings to your holes in order to give a good look and a nice finish. This seems pretty easy, but making the holes look good is an important part when making a course like this.

You might also want to place certain hurdles at different points along your course. The more you place the more fun you will be having while running through the course.

You are all set now with your course. Bring in your family and start playing to enjoy a nice weekend break with your entire family. You can set up a course very easily after following these instructions.

You might also want to check the internet for step by step instructions to set up your own personal golf course. Happy playing!!!

Besides leisure, the author additionally frequently writes about miniature golf courses and putt putt golf supplies.

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05 May 2011 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

Golf being one of the most popular sports is quite enjoyable and beneficial for those who have taken it as a hobby and because it takes place in a golf course that is very beautiful in green grass that provides a feeling of relaxation. There are waters and lakes that make such a splendid view.

Golf is able to benefit those who are involved in the game because sometimes you find that at the course it is possible to meet or be acquainted with very many people. You may be too busy to even play at the golf course.

In the case of indoor playing, a lot of practice is still needed for one to be good at the game just as it is in the real golf course. It is advisable to invest in improving your golf by adding first class accessories to facilitate your playing most of your spare time. Here are a few ideas to get you to the right choices of equipment and accessories.

Even if this will not be a real golf course, your experience would not be completely exciting if you do not make some green lawns here as well. In this case, you would need to visit the nearest store or go online to look for green putting to set up the place.

The right stuff will make the place look just perfect even if it is not a real one, it will give you the feeling that you are in a green lush of grass in a golf course.

Your playing at home can also be assisted by using this idea; invite a few friends for a game of putter pool. This is the name given to the combination of golf and pool. It is a very exciting indoor game that is played in the company of family or friends.

Indoor golf also needs lots of practice time and so do this for you to be more experienced. Begin to invest also by adding the most appropriate accessories for this to help you practice more golf indoors.

Go for some accessories like the swing groove which makes you better the swinging and of course you become a better golfer this way.

This writer also often contributes articles regarding topics including golf simulator and Golf Launchpad.

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04 April 2011 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

‘Drive for show, but putt for dough’ is the phrase we’ve all seen and learned from watching professional golfers in every tournament and championship either live or on TV.

The champions of golf can drive a ball from here to kingdom-come, but it all comes down to how many strokes it takes to get the ball in the hole. The long accurate drives don’t mean anything if you’re unable to putt accurately.

Choosing a putter is very important, but using whatever putter you have consistently is even more so. I’ve had the same putter for fifteen years: I know what it feels like in my hand; I know it’s weight; I know how that plays into my putts.

Now putting takes a huge amount of practice. Think about this: we drive the ball roughly eighteen times a game (once per hole), but putt at least twice that amount. So, surely it make sense to practice putting at least twice as much as driving? Therefore, if you just can’t get to the practice green that often, you could practice on your carpet at home.

Keep in mind that no ball can make it into the hole, if it doesn’t have enough power behind it to get it there. Take the time to get down on the grass and look at the path from your ball to the hole. Does it slant one way or the other? Is it uphill or downhill?

So, stand with your feet spread apart for balance and line up the putt. Keep you hands, arms and shoulders completely still. Imagine that you are a “bobble head” but that you move from just below your chest. Keep your head directly over the ball. Pull your club back; keep your hands, wrists, arms and shoulders steady – the movement comes from your chest. Hit the ball, following the ball through with your club.

Learn from each putt and remember the lesson. Practice, practice, practice!

Are you new to golf? We have some great tips for the beginner golfer at Golfing Tips for Beginners Also published at Golfing Tips For Beginners: 5.

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10 October 2010 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

What Should You Keep in Your Golf Bag?

There are many types of golf bag out there. Some are practical, some are just beautiful and some are both! Then there different size bags. Again, some are large, some even larger and som so enormous that you could take all you need to go on holiday in it!

Generally speaking, you need a bag which is just large enough to hold your clubs, extra balls, your glove, tees, car keys, extra pencils, ball markers, a ball retriever, sunscreen, a windbreaker and a large umbrella.

It is also probably a good idea to have with you: a packet of tissues, a band-aid or two, and if you play courses where insects are a problem, a can of bug repellent comes in very handy.

A pack of baby-wipes comes in quite handy sometimes, especially if you’re feeling hot or you get sprayed with sand in the bunker – it can be just what you need!

Other things that could come in useful are certain drugs: for instance, antihistamine, if you are allergic to wasp stings or medication to counteract an illness like diabetes (if you suffer from it, that is). It is vital to remember to replace these medicines before their expiry date though.

You should also switch off your mobile phone before stowing it away in one of your golf bag’s side pockets to prevent it from upsetting other players. You have to be considerate to you fellow players and mobile phones on a golf course are considered a nuisance as they are in restaurants.

Knowing that you are prepared for most of the minor problems that can arise while you are out on the course will help you to enjoy your game. And the game is mostly about being relaxed. You are prepared for bee stings, ant bites, blisters and rain, so you can get on with your game safe in that knowledge!

Are you a rookie to golfing?? We have some great tips for the beginner golfer at Golfing Tips for Beginners Free reprint avaialable from: Basic Golfing Tips For Beginners: 2.

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09 September 2010 in Golf Tips 0 Comments

The term ‘the long game’ refers to your drives (shots off the tee) and fairway shots; that is every shot except the shots you make to actually get onto the green.

Because each hole has a different difficulty level, a different par and different hazards, advising you to use your driver every time on every tee would obviously be wrong.

But don’t worry about it. This is something that you will have to learn with experience as you learn the various types shot you need to make, which will vary according to the club, the placement of the ball and your own personal style of swing.

Generally speaking, the lower the club number, the longer and lower your ball will fly over the ground. A 4-iron shot will travel a long and low trajectory and will most likely roll on the ground, whereas a 9-iron shot will have much more loft and go less distance both in the air and on the ground.

Don’t the professionals on the television make it look easy? They whack the ball long and straight time after time after time and never slice the ball sending it a sickly eight or nine feet or miss the ball altogether.

One of the most important parts of the game is the drive. If you spend a few hours at the driving range you will see quite a big improvement in your long-distance shots. Use the same club in this experiment to see what affect it has, if you move the ball backward or forward or in your stance. And, if you can, take a lesson or two from a pro, to learn the proper swing from the start.

You need to get to grips with ‘the long game’ as it will ensure that you get to the green in fewer strokes, which will keep your score level and frustration level down. Bear in mind that it takes a long time to learn to be consistent and also always remember: you’re supposed to be having a good time! So go and enjoy yourself.

Are you a rookie to golfing? We have some great tips for the beginner golfer at Golfing Tips for Beginners This article, Fundamental Golf Tips For Beginners: 3 has free reprint rights.

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08 August 2010 in Golf Tips 0 Comments