So, You Want to Start Golf? Here is Your "No-Stress" Game Plan
I’ll be the first to admit it: walking onto a golf course for the first time can feel a little like walking into a party where you don’t know anyone and you're not sure if you're wearing the right outfit. But it doesn't have to be scary! I’ve broken down exactly how to get started so you can feel confident from day one.
Step 1: Know Where You’re Going (and What to Wear)
Before you even leave the house, check if the course is public. Some are "private members only," so you want to make sure you’re headed to a public course or a driving range.
This is also when you check the Dress Code. To make it easy, I categorize courses into three levels:
The "Total Open" Range: Super relaxed. You can wear jeans and a t-shirt. The only rule? No heels! You need flat shoes to stay safe, balanced and not damaging the course.
The "Intermediate" Course: Think "sporty-casual." Nice joggers or athletic shorts and a polo t-shirt. It’s a step up from the gym but still very comfortable.
The "Traditional" Club: This is the classic look. You’ll need a collared polo (tucked in), chinos, and golf shoes. And here’s a pro tip: Take your hat off when you go inside the building. It’s a small sign of respect that shows you really know your stuff!
Step 2: Find Your Information Center
Once you know which golf course or driving range you can come to, do not waste time, COME! And when you are there, don't just wander around!
Look for the Reception Desk or the Proshop, the staff there are your best friends. They will tell you how to get balls for the range, where everything is located, like the golf academy or restaurants and how to navigate the facility safely.
Step 3 : Head to the "Practice Zones"
Once you’ve checked in at the Proshop and you’re feeling good in your gear, it’s time to head out to the facility. Most beginners think "golf" just means the big 18-hole course, but the truth is, the most important (and fun!) parts of the club for a newcomer are the Practice Zones.
This is where you’ll spend your first few weeks building your confidence. Think of it like a playground for grown-ups! Here is exactly where the magic happens and what you need to know about each spot:
1. The Putting Green (The "Quiet" Zone)
The grass here is cut so short it feels like a velvet rug. This is where you practice how to get the ball into the hole (Putting).
What you do here: You use a club called a "putter" to hit short, rolling shots. The ball never leaves the ground.
The "Expert" Detail: You’ll see several holes with flags. Feel free to pick one and practice, but keep an eye out for others—it’s like a shared sidewalk, so just make sure you aren't rolling your ball right into someone else’s path. And a big tip: never swing hard here. The grass is very delicate!
2. The Chipping Green (The "Short Game" Zone)
This area usually has a bit of a "fringe" (slightly longer grass) around a small green. It’s designed to help you practice those little shots (Chipping) that fly a little bit and are just a few meters away from the hole.
What you do here: This is for "chipping"—short, lofted shots where the ball hops into the air for a second and then rolls toward the pin.
The "Expert" Detail: This is a "heads-up" zone. Since balls are flying in the air (even if they are low), always look around before you walk to the hole to collect your balls. It’s all about staying safe and being aware of the other players around you.
3. The Driving Range (The "Power" Zone)
This is the big, wide-open field where you’ll see everyone lined up at "hitting stations." Here you will practice the Full swing.
What you do here: This is where you let it rip! You’re here to practice your full swing and see how far and straight you can hit the ball.
The "Expert" Detail: First, find the Ball Machine. You’ll usually get a code or a token for the practice balls and golf clubs from the Proshop. Then look for the ball machine, put your bucket under the dispenser, and watch the "golf marbles" come tumbling out. Once you have your bucket full of balls, find an open mat or station. Just remember the golden rule: Never walk out onto the grass in front of the hitting line. That’s the "danger zone" where balls are landing!
Step 4: Get a Pro in Your Corner (Trust Me!)
My strongest advice? Book a lesson on day one. A professional coach is going to save you so much time and frustration. They’ll show you the "simple" stuff that isn't actually simple when you're new—like how to use the ball machine, where to walk so you don't get hit, and the right way to hold the club. Seeing it done in person is worth a thousand YouTube videos.
Step 5: The "Pro Move" for Saving Time and Money
When you book that lesson, ask about a Beginner Course or group lessons. Group sessions are a blast because they're social and less intimidating. But if you don´t feel comfortable with too many people, ask for a single lesson. You won´t regret it.
Golf is a journey, and the first step is always the hardest—but I promise, once you hit that first clean shot, you’ll be hooked. Enjoy the moment and environment.
If you need help, we are at Royal Golf Club Bahrain. We are waiting for you!
Mariano Ochoa