What's the best method of learning how to golf?

[Wapsie B]

My first introduction to the game was around '88 when I went golfing with a group from work. It was hot, a very hilly course-we walked it, and it was a lot of hard work. I didn't pick up a club since last summer where I went to the driving range. I played a few weeks ago at my class reunion and although I only had a handful of decent shots in 9 holes I had fun. I went to the driving range last week and I felt even better swinging the club.I went out and got a used set of irons for $50. It seems I'm getting hooked on the game and I want to get better. I only hit the ball about 100 yards off the tee so I've got that to work on as well as putting. So how do you improve at this game? Just keep playing?
Are there good training aids for golf?

[kanrok]

1. Do yourself a favor and take a lesson.

A good pro will teach you grip, stance, take-away and follow-through. Once you have the basics, taught properly, it takes round after round to get your game in shape. The old axiom, drive for show and put for dough is appropriate. One major piece of advice: learn the game from the hole to the tee. In other words, work on your putting and short game first, followed by approach and tee shots. Spend most of your practice time on putting and short game. It'll serve you well. Have fun, and don't take the game so seriously. The best thing about the game is that you are outside, playng on some of the most beautiful real estate around. Have fun.

[Wapsie B]

2. Being outside in the fresh air is one thing that attracts me to golf.

Thanks for the tip. I'll get to work on the putting green. I love the mental challenge golf can be. I really can't see why some throw their clubs and get pissed off out on the course. Kinda defeats the purpose of the game to me which is to have fun. So you hit a bad shot. Tomorrow's another day.

[kanrok]

3. I've done my share of club throwing

Of course, that was when I thought I was a good player. Now, I don't care if I play poorly, I love being outside. My favorite thing about golf is that at least once a round you can hit a shot just like the pros. Can't say that about many sports. Crack off a 300 yard drive right down the middle. Maybe sink a 40 foot put. Perhaps hit a 150 yard approach to within a foot of the cup. It's all possible. It's that one shot that brings you back time and again. It's a great game, and you're right, it is cerebral. You will start to dream about golf, I guarantee it. Enjoy.

[Wapsie B]

4. The cerebral part is what fascinates me.

I will enjoy it. Thanks.