Golf lessons are important for beginners who want to take to the sport like a duck to water but knowing how long to take lessons for can be difficult.

Golf is tough at the start. With unfamiliar equipment, etiquette, and technique to navigate, the temptation is often to simply get out there and swing. But for those who want to progress and enjoy the game long-term, professional coaching is not just helpful, it’s essential.

But how many golf lessons should a new player take? There is no one-size-fits-all timeline and the emphasis isn’t just on how many lessons one takes, but rather how they are spaced out to allow for meaningful practice and progression in between.

According to the PGA’s official guidance, beginners benefit from programs that gradually build core skills, such as grip, stance and posture.

We asked PGA Professional Ben Hall for his view on how long a beginner should get golf lessons for. He also explained the reasoning behind coaches implementing structured progression and how coaching is adapted for each individual golfer.

How long does it typically take a beginner to develop a solid foundation?

The most important thing a complete beginner can do is start with lessons with a PGA Professional at a golf club, rather than a driving range. I believe this is a better integration into golf, the culture and most importantly the golf course.

A lot people who play for a year or two and then start having lessons run into a lot of problems having to undo compensation in their technique. This happens a lot with my beginner clients, although a lot will continue to make progress.

How can practice between lessons help with a golfer’s progression?

After the lessons have started the most important thing is what they are doing between the lessons. If they want to make progress quickly like most people do, they need to be patient and stick to the process laid out by the coach.

How do you assess a beginner’s development over time?

A long side to this, proper guidance and advice is very important. I always tell my clients to stay away from package sets of clubs, and content on YouTube which is pumped out for views and subscribers. Watch tour players like Bryson Dechambeau who are doing a superb job.

After this, it is all in their own hands.

 

Looking to improve your golf game? Find a golf lesson in your local area.