Golf is a challenging and fun sport that has been enjoyed by both men and women for over 100 years!
For women who are newer to the sport or are looking to improve their game, this article aims to focus on the practical aspects of golf and tailor them specifically for female players.
Although these tips can likely be practiced by anyone, we wanted to offer specialized tips to female players.
As you read along, we will cover equipment considerations, the importance of warming up, common mistakes, and the unique mental challenges that come with playing in a male-dominated sport.
So, if you’re interested in learning more about how to improve your golf game as a woman, be sure to stick around with a pen in hand. Let’s tee off!
1. Choose clubs with lighter shafts
When choosing which club will work best for you, opt for those with a lighter shaft. Clubs with a lighter shaft may offer more speed and control, which can increase the overall distance of your shot.
Shafts can come in a variety of materials, such as steel, graphite, and more.
Graphite shafts are known to be lighter and are preferred by players who are looking to increase their clubhead speed.
2. Focus on flexibility and core strength in workouts
Golf is less about brute force strength training and more about functional movement and flexibility practice.
Therefore, focusing your workouts on core strength and flexibility will provide you with a stable yet agile base that is ideal for a great golf swing!
If you’re unsure where to start, there are great core workouts on websites like Youtube.
Alternatively, pilates provides an excellent blend of flexibility and core strength that will assist you in improving your game.
Finally, the next time you play golf, pay attention to how often you’re engaging your core during swings!
3. Opt for comfortable and well-fitted golf attire
Your golf game can certainly be impacted by the clothes that you wear. If the fabric you’re wearing is not breathable and light, consider choosing a fabric such as nylon for future games.
Also, depending on the weather, you may need several outfits to account for temperature changes.
For example, purchasing a lightweight jacket that can be thrown over your outfit if the weather is too cold can regulate your body temperature and prevent any weather-related distractions.
Lastly, the sneakers you choose can influence your game. Make sure your shoes support your feet well and allow you to stand firmly for your shot!
4. Use a lighter grip pressure
One of the more challenging aspects of golf is reducing tension. Tension in a golf swing often originates from the grip. The way that you grip your golf swing has been established as the most important aspect of your swing.
Practice relaxing your hands and wrists for added smoothness and more accuracy in future swings. Additionally, make sure your fingers are in a neutral and relaxed position instead of bent across the club.
5. Practice a smooth and controlled swing
As we just mentioned, it is important to focus on generating a smooth and controlled swing. If you’re struggling to get the swing that you’re after, consider studying the mechanics of a good golf swing.
There’s no shame in practicing regularly – and you don’t even need to be on a course!
If you have an outdoor (or indoor) area that’s open enough to practice your swing in, take the opportunity to work on it.
6. Prioritize accuracy over power
It may be satisfying to hit a golf ball powerfully, but power doesn’t win as many games as accuracy does.
Accuracy gives you a better chance of a hole-in-one, while also being likely to avoid traps in a course, such as sand or water.
To have a more accurate swing, make sure your hips are square with your shoulders and the target line. Also, choose a grip that is consistent across the club that also allows you to remain agile. Whatever you do, avoid rushing into your swing!
7. Incorporate balance exercises into your routine
Along with core strength and flexibility exercises, have you considered focusing on improving your balance?
Balance takes core strength, but it also involves other muscles that can assist you in staying still and controlled during a golf swing.
Balance exercises like flexibility moves can be found in Pilates or yoga. Balance can also be worked on at home by simply standing on one leg.
If you’re looking for an even greater challenge, try to swing your golf club while standing on one leg!
While attempting this move, always have your other leg ready in case your balance becomes too unsteady.
8. Consider a shorter driver for better control
Shorter drivers offer better control for a variety of reasons. First, drivers that are lower to the ground have an easier time finding the center of the clubhead. Once the center is found, it can be easier to direct the ball via your club.
Second, the swing produced by a short driver is more likely to be reproduced.
Third, short drivers allow for more precision in a shot – which will ultimately get you closer to the hole. To really assess how a short driver can benefit you, head to your local golf store and try out a few of the shorter sizes!
9. Take advantage of women’s golf clinics or lessons
Women’s golf clinics and lessons are offered in most places. These services are great for golfers of all levels as it’s always beneficial to have a professional view your swing and point out ways that you can improve.
Some classes and lessons cost money, while others may be offered for free by your favorite course or local community center. It’s always wise to check the websites of these locations to get the best deal!
10. Pay attention to proper warm-up and stretching before playing
It can be tempting to get right on the course as soon as you arrive, but always make sure to stretch and warm up before playing.
All you need is 5-10 minutes of simple, full-body stretches to get your blood pumping and muscles activated. Doing this will make pulling a muscle, or simply having an ‘off’ game, less likely.
11. Be confident!
Nerves can certainly influence your golfing game. To overcome “imposter syndrome” or general anxiety about playing golf, you may want to try understanding the root of your anxiety.
Golf is not an easy sport, so give yourself grace, no matter your score. Be sure to review these tips while you’re practicing and remember to be patient with the process of learning to improve your golf game. You’ve got this!