GETTING STARTED
Golf can be a great activity!

A long walk through lush green grass, around trees, ponds, birds and other wildlife — not the kind of description that typically comes to mind when you think of exercise, is it? But make no mistake, golf is a great way to get active and have some fun, too. It's never too late to learn and golf is the kind of sport that you can enjoy for the rest of your life. That's likely why men and women of all ages are taking up golf and taking a swing at a more active and healthy lifestyle. You can, too.

EQUIPMENT
For new golfers, choosing clubs and other equipment can be a daunting task. The equipment options are many, so seek advice from knowledgeable staff in sports equipment stores, golf shops and pro shops.

Clubs: You don't have to go out and buy expensive clubs when you are just beginning. Until you are certain golf is a sport for you, borrow clubs from a friend, or rent from a golf course. If you wish to buy your own clubs, shop around and compare prices. Quality and price will vary depending on where you go. Department stores have reasonably priced clubs, but selection may be limited. Sports equipment stores and pro shops will have a wider selection and knowledgeable staff to help you. Used equipment stores or the classified ads can be a great place to find quality clubs for a reasonable price. Whether you borrow, rent, or buy it is important that each player has their own bag of clubs. Sharing clubs on the course is not allowed because it slows down play.

The short-term objective of golf is to get your golf ball from the tee box and into the hole in as few shots (or strokes) as possible. The long-term objective is to complete 18 individual holes in the lowest number of strokes. To complete these objectives, you carry with you an assortment of golf clubs, each designed for certain conditions.

Getting these clubs to perform their designed task requires a certain amount of practice and persistence but will ultimately result in a great sense of accomplishment as you begin to achieve lower golf scores.

Ball: At the beginner level the type of golf ball makes little difference, so buying previously used golf balls is smart. Because they are less expensive, you'll be less concerned when you lose a golf ball in the trees, water hazards, etc. White golf balls are standard, but some golfers find coloured golf balls easier to follow and find.

Clothes: What you should wear depends on where you golf. Private courses or country clubs usually require classic attire: collared golf shirts, slacks or knee length shorts (no jeans, cut-offs or tank tops). On public courses, the rules of dress are a bit more relaxed. It is important that you are comfortable while playing, but dress appropriately. If you are unsure about a course's dress code, call the pro shop for details.

Shoes: Golf shoes are not always required but, for comfort and grip, you should wear rubber soled shoes or sneakers. If you decide to buy golf shoes, remember that most golf courses no longer allow old-style metal spikes. Consider shoes with rubber or 'soft' spikes. Other types of sport cleats are not allowed.

Golf Bag: Be sure to stock your golf bag so you are prepared for play. You'll need at least a couple dozen tees and extra golf balls. It is also a great idea to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Items like a rain coat, umbrella, bug spray, sunscreen and a hat will ensure you are sun-safe and comfortable at all times.

BASIC GOLF TERMS
When you're out on the links (another word for golf course), you'll notice golf has a whole language of its own.  Here are some basic terms to help you feel at home on the golf course:

Tee: The point from which the play of a hole begins, usually referred to as 'the tee' or 'the box'.  It also refers to the peg on which the golf ball is placed for driving.

Fairyway: The closely mowed grass between the tee box and the green.

Green: The area of a golf hole on the course designed for putting.  The grass is extremely short and well-manicured.

Rough: The taller grass on the outside edges of the fairway.

Divot: A piece of grass removed with a golf shot. It is proper etiquette to always replace the divot, and to step the turf back in place.

Par: The standard score in strokes assigned to each hole on the golf course. The par for each hole is given on the scorecard.

Fore: A warning yelled by a player when their shot threatens to hit another player.