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Understanding Golf Etiquette

By: Emery Noile Golf is an age-old game that's rich in culture and tradition. Playing golf involves the ability to adhere to strict rules of etiquette, and that includes your choice of attire. If you respect and happily comply with the rules of etiquette, you will be welcomed to play at proper golf courses.

If you scoff and consider the rules "stodgy", on the other hand, you'll be destined to play your games at golf courses that share your disdain. That is, of course, if you can find one.

Public and private golf courses enforce etiquette rules to some degree, and nearly all courses will hold restrictions on golf apparel. The use of proper golf attire is considered to be one of the most important areas of etiquette. Collared shirts, long pants and proper golf shoes are the most common of golf course dress code requirements. These rules come into play on the links and in the clubhouse, and respectful players are happy to oblige.

Arriving promptly for your tee time is one of the primary rules of golf etiquette. Plan on being at the course at least twenty to thirty minutes before you will tee off. This will give you plenty of time to park the car, get changed, buy extra balls, get a cart, practice and warm up. Don't expect to be able to arrive five minutes before tee time and immediately hit the driving range.

Most golf etiquette is based on age-old rules, but one important rule is a sign of the times. You cell phone or pager is not welcome on the golf course. Leave it in the car or in your locker. If you cannot leave your phone behind, turn the ringer off and tuck the phone into your golf bag. You can check for messages and return them when it's respectful to do so.

Being mindful of other players is what golf etiquette is all about. Make sure that you have a clear understanding of how the other players in your group want to play. For example, ask if the first ready golfer should tee off first, or whether the golfer with the best score on the proceeding hole should lead the play. You'd be surprised at how easily you can offend a stranger if you join their group and don't play by their rules.

Above all, respect the other golfers' need for a quiet place to play. Golf requires precision and a great deal of concentration, and golfers are unforgiving if they think you've blown their big shot. In following golf etiquette it is absolutely essential that you keep quiet and stay out of the shooter's direct line of vision. This can be a hard rule to remember when you're having fun with you buddies, but it is golf etiquette in its most basic form.

Golf isn't just a game; for many, it's a social springboard and a showcase of good breeding. If you enjoy playing a game of golf, you've got to respect the fact golf etiquette represents more than a persnickety dress code. It is culture and tradition that have been observed by generations. So put on your collared shirt and your chinos, tie up your golf shoes, and tee off with due respect.

Article Source: http://www.lifeweightloss.com

Writer Emery Deiryme is a frequent contributor to several popular web magazines, on outdoor sports recreation and all American recreation subjects.
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