Top 5 Mistakes New Golfers Make and How to Avoid Them

Golf is a rewarding sport, but for beginners, it can also be a frustrating one. Between mastering your swing, selecting the right equipment, and learning the etiquette, there’s a lot to take in. And while everyone makes mistakes, some are far more common and costly than others. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve, understanding what not to do is just as important as learning the right techniques.

Here are the top five mistakes new golfers make—and, more importantly, how to avoid them.

1. Swinging Too Hard: Why Power Isn’t Everything

One of the most common rookie mistakes is swinging with all your might, assuming more force equals more distance. While it may seem logical, golf is a game of finesse, not brute strength. A powerful swing without proper technique often leads to poor contact, off-balance shots, and inconsistent ball flight.

How to Avoid It:

Focus on control and rhythm instead of speed. A smoother, well-balanced swing will give you more consistent results. Work on your tempo—most professional golfers swing at around 80% of their maximum effort. Practice slowing down and letting the club do the work.

Pro Tip: Record your swing and watch it back. If you’re losing balance at the finish, you’re likely swinging too hard.

2. Avoiding Golf Lessons: Skipping Fundamentals Leads to Bad Habits

Many beginners assume they can learn everything from YouTube or watching others at the range. While online resources are useful, nothing replaces the value of a professional golf lesson. Without guidance, it’s easy to form bad habits that become difficult to correct later.

How to Avoid It:

Invest in a few beginner lessons with a certified golf instructor. You’ll get tailored feedback on your grip, stance, posture, and swing mechanics. Learning proper form from the beginning sets a strong foundation that can save you years of frustration.

Did You Know? Golfers who take lessons early are statistically more likely to lower their handicap faster than self-taught players.

3. Ignoring Golf Swing Basics: The Setup is Everything

Golf swing basics like grip, posture, and alignment are often overlooked by new players eager to hit the ball. However, your setup dictates the success of your entire swing. Even the perfect swing won’t work if your fundamentals are off.

How to Avoid It:

Make a checklist of swing basics before every shot:

• Is your grip neutral?
• Are your feet shoulder-width apart?
• Is your spine tilted properly?
• Are your shoulders aligned to the target?

Practice these elements consistently. Even 10 minutes a day in front of a mirror can sharpen your fundamentals and reinforce muscle memory.

4. Only Practicing Your Driver: Neglecting the Short Game

Let’s face it—hitting long drives feels great. But if all you do is practice with your driver, you’re ignoring the clubs that will actually lower your score. In fact, around 70% of golf shots occur within 100 yards of the hole.

How to Avoid It:

Split your practice time. For every hour you spend on the driving range, dedicate at least 30 minutes to your putting, chipping, and pitching. Develop a balanced practice routine that improves your game from tee to green.

Fact: Most beginners can save more strokes by improving their putting than by gaining extra yards off the tee.

5. Playing the Wrong Tees: Making the Game Harder Than It Should Be

Many new golfers unknowingly play from tees meant for more experienced players, making the course unnecessarily difficult and frustrating. Playing the wrong tees leads to longer holes, more difficult shots, and slower rounds.

How to Avoid It:

Choose tees that match your skill level. Most golf courses offer multiple sets of tees—typically back (championship), middle (regular), and forward (beginner or senior). If you’re not consistently hitting drives over 200 metres, start with the forward tees. You’ll enjoy the game more and keep pace with other groups.

Quick Rule of Thumb: If you’re a beginner, play from the tee that allows you to reach the green in regulation with reasonable effort.

Final Thoughts: Play Smarter, Not Harder

Improving at golf doesn’t mean mastering everything overnight. It means understanding your weaknesses, building better habits, and learning to enjoy the journey. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for faster improvement and a more enjoyable experience on the course.

Golf is a lifelong game, and the best time to start building good habits is right now.

Want to Elevate Your Golf Game?

If you’re looking for a fantastic place to put these tips into practice, consider Oatlands Golf Club membership. We offer a premier golfing experience with excellent facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for players of all levels. To learn more about our memberships, tee times, or beginner programs, please contact Oatlands Golf Club today!