How to choose an instructor

FRIDAY, DEC. 23: As a teacher who has given thousands of golf lessons over the last 20 years, I can tell you that nothing is more important to your long-term satisfaction with golf than taking golf lessons from a good Golf Instructor and the improvement that comes with it.

The Traits of a Good Golf Instructor:

• There is a programme for improvement, not just single lessons. Goals will be set, and a realistic time frame given.
• A short game skills test will be turned into an understandable short game handicap.
• Your equipment will be checked to make sure you have, at the very least, the proper lie angle, shaft length, and shaft flex.
• The instructor will check for physical limitations. A TPI type golf fitness assessment should be done.
• There will be an equal emphasis on the short game and the full swing.
• Top instructors will teach the game of golf, not just the swing. This includes the mental side, course management, speed of play, rules, and etiquette.
• Concepts will be explained, demonstrated, and shown in an understandable manner and in bite-size pieces. Information overload will be avoided.
• The instructor will use video analysis as a feedback tool. When used properly, video is a huge help in bridging the gap between fact and feel.
• The instructor will convey a passion for the game of golf.

The golf lessons from a person who lives up to these traits will absolutely take your game to the next level.  Forming good habits and developing skill are the keys to improvement.

Most of us wouldn’t teach our kids to swim by throwing them in the deep end of the pool and have them figure it out for themselves. 

How important was sending your kids for swimming lessons? 

I know for my kids it made all the difference. When the skills of swimming develop, your kids start to gain confidence and competence. 

Little by little they become good swimmers. 

Their success was virtually guaranteed. 

When golf is taught as a series of essential skills, your success is virtually guaranteed.

Paul Adams is the PGA Director of Golf at Rosewood Tucker’s Point. You may contact him with questions at 298-4000.