Five myths of golf

These misconceptions do not improve your game.

Becoming a good golfer takes time, dedication and the willingness to become a student of the game.  There are no short cuts or magical clubs that bring instant success.  Golfers, however, do have some misconceptions or myths about how to really improve their game.

Myth 1. The more rounds played, the better the golfer.    

False. On my home course, the same golfers tee off early, play at least five days a week and brag about playing over 200 rounds a year.  Every golf course has them.  These golfers may be getting their money worth, but their scores remain relatively the same.  To really improve, it is necessary to understand all facets of the game from swing faults to how to correct the problems.  Time must be spent at the driving range on every part of the game, just not the driver. 

Myth 2. The better the equipment, the lower the scores.

False. It is not necessary to spend $599 on a new Taylor Made M1 driver or the best wedges made by Callaway.  On the other hand, golf clubs bought at a garage sale will not improve your game.  It is necessary to fit your clubs to your playing ability.  The clubs a novice golfer uses are very different from those used by someone with a single handicap.  Any good golf store will have staff members who can assist you in selecting the most appropriate equipment from clubs to balls. 

Myth 3. Golf lessons will make me a better golfer.

False. Golf lessons by themselves will not make you a better golfer.  The information may be very valuable, but it takes time to understand the concepts and up to three months to develop muscle memory to implement the changes in your golf swing.  Lessons seldom bring immediate success.  People who take lessons will often admit that away from the driving range, they feel confused and discouraged because the lessons are not helping.  Give it time. 

Myth 4. Competition will make me a better golfer.

False. Competition does not always bring out the best in individuals.  In fact, competition and losing can be very discouraging.  Playing tournament golf requires a very different approach and attitude to the game.  There are many methods to be competitive on the course without playing in tournaments.  First, play against the course and par and not your playing partners.  Use other competitive games including various handicap systems, best ball or match play.  Beginners always try to keep score but become frustrated and discouraged.  Put the scorecard away and just enjoy hitting the ball.

Myth 5. The better the golf course, the better I play.

False. It is always a thrill to play on a course used by the PGA Tour.  The excitement sometimes results in a very good round, but if you were to play that same PGA course on a regular basis, your game would not improve.  It is only a matter of time until the bad shots return, be it a hook or slice, poor chipping or inability to read the greens.  A beautiful golf course does not eliminate a bad swing.  Remember, 150 yards over water to the green is still 150 yards, regardless of the quality of the course.

Golf is not an easy game, so enjoy the learning curve. Hard work is par for the course.