The objective of golf is to hit balls into each of the 9 or 18 successive holes on the course, in as few strokes as possible. Every sport calls for appropriate equipment; golf is no different. A good technique, coupled with the right clubs will bring success. Try different clubs before deciding the right set for you. Please avoid the common blunder of buying expensive and flashy golf clubs, for starters. Instead, look out for crucial features such as length, shaft, flex, grip-thickness and swing weight in your club.

Two basic forms of playing golf are match play and stroke play with individual players or as a team. We begin by addressing the ball, taking a swing and striking it with a side stance. The full golf swing is an art and mastering it, requires constant practice and diligence. It is elementary to align your body and club to the target you are aiming. A dynamic balance as it is known in golfing parlance will insure the club strikes the ball at the desired angle, imparting right spin and trajectory. Invariably, it is your swing that will make it or break it. So, watch your balance!

An approach shot is played into the green and consists of pitch, flop and chip.

A tee shot is the first shot played from the teeing ground. Depending on the hole, tee shots have either a shallow flight and long roll or a higher flight and minimal roll of the ball. Fairway shots are similar to drives, but executed without the tee, once the ball has been brought into play. Irons or wedges are used when playing from the fairway and the rough, not to mention "hazards". A bunker shot is played when the ball is in a bunker (sand trap). Sand wedges come into play, allowing the club to skid in the sand. On the green a putter comes in handy to "putt the ball". In this case, the ball rolls on the ground, never becoming air borne.

Golf is governed by rules and etiquettes regularly published by the R&A and USGA, covering matters such as safety, fair play, players' obligation etc. Whether playing on a link course or a parkland course, golf is a great game, replete with fun and frustration, ups and downs! (pun intended).

Jonathan Brown recommends Golf Clubs for more information about golf.