Most people figure out what they enjoy doing throughout childhood. Whether it be playing football, baking cakes, riding horses, or whatever else grabs your interested.
However, a lot of hobbies are determined by what you are exposed to in your youth which can be limited based on cost and location.
As a result, getting into new activities and discovering new interests as an adult can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be. One popular activity that people take up as they age into their 30s is golf.
In the article below, we are going to look at the fundamentals of taking up this golf in your 30s and beyond. We have a lot to cover so let’s jump in.
Can I Take Up Golf As A Hobby At 30?
Yes, of course you can start going in your 30s! For many people, golf is not a sport that your parents push you into when you are younger due to the cost and time commitment of the sport.
However, by the time you hit 30, you are in the perfect position to try it for yourself.
The general public have a perception of golf that it is an expensive sport only played by the upper classes. Many people think they are priced out of the sport before even picking up a club.
The reality is that you can take up golf on a budget if you are smart about things.
Like with any hobby, if you want the absolute best equipment you are going to have to pay over the odds.
However, if you are happy to start by using rented clubs or cheap, second-hand ones and play at local municipal courses then you can figure out whether it’s the sport for you or not without spending a fortune.
How To Start Playing Golf At 30
The best way to start playing golf at 30 is to head down to your local driving range. Driving ranges are places where golfers of varying skills can go and practice their swing by hitting a few balls. They are the perfect starting point for all new golfers.
A lot of driving ranges will allow you to borrow or rent a few clubs for a nominal fee meaning you don’t even need to fork out for a brand new set of clubs before your first trip to the range.
If you’ve been to the driving range and enjoyed yourself, you may well consider buying a cheap set of clubs for your next visit.
After a few trips to the range, your next step will be to test yourself on a real golf course. Find a local golf course online that does not require membership and is beginner friendly.
Book a tee time online or over the phone and test your skills on the course. You can also hone your short game skills at the practice facility, most times for free.
Once you’ve got a set of clubs, been to the driving range and got a couple of rounds under your belt you will likely be in a position to decide how seriously you want to take your new hobby.
You may decide to leave it entirely, continue at the same level or ramp things up by purchasing better equipment, joining a golf club and booking yourself in for some lessons.
Why You Should Start Playing Golf At 30
The number one reason why you should start playing golf at 30 is because it’s always fun and rewarding to try new things as you get older. It may well be outside of your comfort zone to do this but the only way to find out what you like is to try something and then decide on whether you like it later.
Other reasons why you should start playing golf at 30 include:
1.) It’s a great way to spend your free time. Golf courses are usually built in beautiful surroundings, so if nothing else you are going to spend your afternoons walking around scenic gardens, getting your steps in and exercising in the process.
2.) At 30, you should be in the prime of your life. Taking golf up at this age means that you are unlikely to struggle with the physical demands of the sport, while also being mature enough to deal with the emotional and frustrating side of the game.
3.) Playing golf in your 30s is also a way to stay competitive in a physical sport. Many athletes enjoy playing the game as they age as a replacement for the sports they played in their youth.
4.) It’s challenging but rewarding. The feeling of hitting a new personal best score and bringing your handicap down is superb. Knowing the hard work you are putting into your game is paying off can be really rewarding and help you feel good about yourself.
Check List For New Golfers
New golfers will need a lot of different equipment before they can start teeing it up. Luckily for you, we have a check list so you don’t miss anything.
We always recommended starting our with cheaper or borrowed equipment before spending the big bucks on the game. While it may make sense for some new golfers to jump in and buy the best equipment and get fitted, the majority of golfers will be better suited waiting before making a big investment.
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1.) Golf Clubs And Bag
New golfers will need a set of golf clubs, which typically includes a driver, fairway woods, irons, wedges, and a putter. You can buy a new or used set of golf clubs at a golf shop or online.
We always recommend borrowing or renting clubs before buying to make sure you enjoy the game. However, if you are ready to buy, we like this set from Precise.
2.) Golf Balls
New golfers will also need a supply of golf balls. You can buy golf balls at a golf shop or online. It’s a good idea to start with cheaper balls until you become more skilled.
We like Kirkland Brand golf balls for all golfers, but especially beginners. They are very affordable and well made golf balls.
3.) Golf Gloves
A golf glove helps you grip the club and prevent blisters on your hands. While not a must have accessory, they are very helpful. Especially, on rainy or hot days.
Again, we like the Kirkland Brand golf glove because it is reasonably priced and offers many of the features that premium brands provide.
4.) Golf Shoes
You will need new golf shoes to provide traction and stability on the course. Golf shoes typically have soft spikes on the soles that grip the grass.
5.) Golf Clothes
You should wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for golfing. Golf shirts or polo, pants, shorts, and skirts are commonly worn on the course.
6.) Golf Tees
Golf tees are small pegs used to elevate the ball for the first shot on each hole. You can buy them at a golf shop or online. Make sure to grab a bunch because golf tees tend to break or get lost.
7.) Golf Course
Find a local golf course where you can practice and play. You will need to pay for green fees or a membership to use the course.
8.) Golf Lessons
It’s a good idea to take golf lessons from a qualified instructor to learn the fundamentals of the game, including swing mechanics and etiquette.
When To Avoid Taking Golf Up As A Hobby
Despite the above benefits, there are a few reasons why golf might not be the sport for you. The number one reason why you shouldn’t take up the sport is if you have a short fuse. Golf can be frustrating for the best players so it can be even worse for those who don’t know how to play it properly.
Other reasons why you shouldn’t start playing golf at 30 include:
1.) The chances of making it professionally are remote. By the time you’re 30, any chance of making it professionally in any sport is virtually at 0%.
If making it into the professional tour is your main ambition for picking up the game then you may as well forget about even picking up a golf club.
That said, anything is possible so don’t let us hold you back from your dreams!
2.) Time and money commitments. When you’re 30 years old, you are likely going to have other time and money commitments that take priority over taking up a new hobby, including looking after children, paying your house bills and looking after your parents.
A typical round of golf takes four and a half hours so it can be difficult to squeeze it into a busy schedule.
3.) It’s a weather and season dependent hobby. Sure, you can play golf in the wind and the rain but it’s about as much fun as it sounds.
You can only really enjoy golf when it’s dry, meaning it’s only going to be a hobby worth pursuing in the summer.
Final Thoughts
Golf can be an amazing sport to take up at any age. You are never too young or too old to start. Be patient and take your time building the fundamentals.
With constant dedication and passion for the game, you will be a pro on the course in no time!
We hope that our advice above will help you get started on your golfing journey and that you never look back. Hopefully you liked this article and found it informative. Check out our other blog posts if you liked this one!
