What You Should Know Before Your First Round
So you are getting ready for your first round of golf? Great! Golf is one of the most enjoyable – and most challenging – sports in the world. Whether you are getting into golf to be competitive, or just to have some fun with your friends, it is a great way to get outside, get some exercise, and make memories to last a lifetime.
Below is a list of a few things that you should know before you hit the links for your first round. Even if you have taken plenty of trips to the driving range to work on your swing, it is a different experience altogether to get out on the course and test yourself over 18 holes.
- Bring plenty of golf balls. When playing your first round, it is almost inevitable that you will lose a golf ball or two along the way. Don’t worry about it – just make sure to bring plenty so you don’t run out part way through the round. If you are able to pick out a relatively easy golf course for your first round, you can limit the number of golf balls you are likely to lose.
- Pick a non-peak time. Playing on a sunny Saturday morning is probably not the best choice for your first round as the course is likely to be crowded and busy. If you can, try to play during the week on a quiet afternoon when there isn’t much going on at the course. The lack of a crowd will help you to relax and enjoy your first round without feeling like you are in the way of other, more experienced golfers.
- Bring a small first-aid kit. Even though golf isn’t a physical sport, you still are likely get blisters or other sore spots during your first round. Having a small first aid kit in your bag with things like athletic tape and other helpful items can allow to you get through the round more comfortably.
- Have fun. Let’s be honest – you probably aren’t going to shoot a great score in your first round on the course. Golf is a very challenging game, and you are going to hit plenty of bad shots. Don’t worry about it, though – have fun and laugh at yourself along the way. Enjoy the opportunity to be outside and learning a new activity, and save the concern about your score for future rounds once you have more experience.
