Introduction to Golf: The Basics - Week 1

Overview of the Four-Week Plan

• Developed to teach beginners how to play golf
• Focus areas:
  • Aiming and alignment
  • Stance and ball positioning
  • Grip
  • Practice routines

Aiming and Alignment

• Target: Usually a flag on the green or a fairway
• Club Alignment:
  • Aim the leading edge of the club at the target
  • Ensure a 90-degree angle from the club to the target
• Body Alignment:
  • Feet, knees, hips, and shoulders should run parallel to the target line

Stance and Ball Position

• Stance Width: Roughly shoulder-width apart (using a 7-iron)
• Ball Position: Just forward of the center in the stance

The Grip: Most Important Aspect of Week 1

Parts of the Golf Club

• Grip (Handle): The part you hold
• Shaft: The long, straight part
• Club Head: The part that hits the ball
  • Face: The hitting surface, varies in loft
  • Toe and Heel: Ends of the club head
  • Leading Edge: Bottom front edge

Importance of the Grip

• Only Body Contact: Only part of the body in contact with the club
• Angle Control: Controls swing angles and club face direction
• Club Face Control: Most vital for hitting accuracy

Correct Grip Technique

• Stand Upright: Feet together, club held up
• Lead Hand (Left):
  • Grip runs from middle of index finger to bottom of little finger
  • Hold more in the fingers than the palm
  • Seeing all knuckles and glove logo means correct positioning
• Trail Hand (Right):
  • Palm toward target
  • Thumb on top of left thumb
• Visual Check: Two knuckles visible, V-shape pointing to the right ear
• Avoid Interlocking Hands: Use baseball grip initially

Practice Routine: Week 1

• Aim: Focus on the grip, stance, and aiming
• Use of Tee: Start with a high tee and gradually lower it to hit off the ground
• Swings: Brush the ground on practice swings
• Grip Check: Realign grip after each shot

Myth Busting

Myth 1: Swing It Straight to Hit It Straight

• Reality: Club moves in an arc
  • Backswing: Club head arcs in around the body
  • Follow-Through: Club head arcs back in after impact

Myth 2: Getting Under the Ball

• Reality: Descending strike is key
  • Contact: Hit ball followed by ground (divot)
  • Role of Loft: Club face loft angles the ball upward
• Emphasize hitting the ground just after the ball

Week 1 Practice Plan Recap

• Focus Areas:
  • Parallel alignment
  • Stance and ball position
  • Proper grip
  • Hitting the ground during practice swings
• Goal: Have fun while practicing and developing skills

Next Steps

• For continuous learning, join at meandmygolf.com for the full coaching plan