Group lessons can be a fun way to learn

FRIDAY, NOV. 09: If you want to learn to play golf taking lessons is definitely the way to go. TV and books can help, but lessons from golf professionals are a must.

There are specific fundamentals you need to learn — grip, posture and alignment — and need to get absolutely right from the start.

If not, power and consistency become almost impossible to achieve.

There are different kinds of lessons to consider too. One-on-one private lessons give plenty of personal attention, but sometimes a beginner or new player isn’t comfortable one-on-one for an hour.

It can be intimidating. The other kind of lessons to consider are group lessons, offered as clinics or golf schools.

In the group lesson you receive personal attention, but also get time to practice without all eyes on you. It can be a more relaxed environment for a beginner.

Typically you can find a group lesson or golf school where you will be grouped with players of the same level.

This week I hosted a group from Executive Women’s Golf Association. The class was lots of fun, not least for myself. I have done groups like this for the last 20 years, and it is something I would love to do more of.

Every class is different and it is challenging to come up with strategies to help the individuals in the group while still keeping the communication as simple as possible. The two hours of coaching seemed too short to get much done, but we managed to get everyone to hit some nice shots and learn the fundamentals of chipping.

I am already planning the next session where maybe we can get out on the course too.

And whatever you do, don’t take golf swing advice from friends — unless, of course, that friend is a golf professional.

Paul Adams is the PGA Director of Golf at Rosewood Tucker’s Point.