Your golf swing, like your fingerprints, is unlike anyone else’s. It’s composed of how you stand, where you stand, how you hold the club and how your body moves. All these unique traits make your swing completely different to anyone else’s. Which means that the no one set of clubs will be suitable for use by everyone. If you want to get the most out of your game, you should consider getting your clubs specially fitted to suit your game, and match your swing and body attributes.
Here’s the top seven things you need to know about custom club fitting.
How essential is it to get your clubs custom fitted?
It makes absolutely no sense to use a ‘one-size-size-fits-all approach when it comes to choosing golf clubs – because every golfer is different. Using a set of golf clubs that fit you like a glove can be one of the best investments you can make in allowing you to perform to the very best of your ability. Having clubs that specifically suit your height, size, strength, swing characteristics and club speed will result in much better outcomes in your game.
The golf clubs displayed in sporting stores are very standardised – which doesn’t make them suitable for everyone. Poorly fitted clubs can cause improper technique, and can mean that your game is nowhere near as good as it could be. Most golf equipment needs to be matched precisely to your needs in order for you to get the most out of your game.
It can benefit anyone, not just the “good” players
One very common reason for players to avoid club fitting is that they’re “not good enough” to need that level of customisation. Many club-level players only consider getting fitted clubs when their game improves – but this can leave them caught in a vicious circle. Using clubs that are wrong for you can negatively affect your swing, lead to the formation of bad habits and ensure that you don’t improve to the standard that you’re capable of.
Think of it this way: you wouldn’t learn to ride a bike by using one that’s so small your feet are dragging on the ground, or one that’s so big you can’t reach the pedals. If you tried that, you would never learn to ride a bike properly. It happens that way with your golf swing as well, where people tend to develop their swing around the clubs they are using. And it can have a huge impact on the development of your game
Players at all skill levels can benefit from custom club fitting – in fact, it’s the lower-level players that will benefit the most from using custom fit clubs.
Where can I get club fitting done?
You can get your clubs fitted at any professional golf hub, outlet or centre in Australia. Many golfing brands also conduct fittings at golf clubs and driving ranges across Australia. It’s always best to make an appointment before you go.
What exactly happens during club fitting?
First, you’ll be measured. Measurements such as your height and the distance between your wrist and the floor are essential in determining the correct clubs for you.
Most club fitters use high tech systems to assist with the club fitting process, and will test for loft, lie and shaft properties (weight, head design, grip type and size, length, flex and kick point). Your launch angle, swing speed and lie angle at impact will all be assessed (usually via some kind of ball tracking system), and you will test clubs with varying lofts, head shapes and shaft flex to determine which combination of features will give you the best results. The club fitter will then make recommendations based on all the data, and will guide you towards the best golf equipment to suit your individual game style.
What do I need to take to a club fitting appointment?
It’s best to bring your current set of clubs with you to the club fitting appointment. The fitter will get you to hit some shots with these clubs to provide a baseline that you can compare the new clubs with. Wear clothes that you would be comfortable wearing to play golf.
You’ll also need to bring information – about how these clubs are performing for you currently (and what’s not working for you), how well you’re striking the ball at the moment and how you tend to miss the ball. You’ll also need to know what you want to achieve by getting fitted clubs
Is club fitting expensive?
That depends. Some places in Australia offer complimentary club fitting, while others will charge you up to $100 or more. It’s best to shop around and uncover all your options – you don’t want to end up paying for something that you could get for free somewhere else!
Is buying expensive golf clubs worth the cost? Click here to find out.
Once I get my clubs fitted, will I ever need to do it again?
You may think that once you get your clubs fitted, you’re set for life – but that’s not the case. It’s best to get fitted for clubs every time you buy a new set – and if you play regularly, you’ll need new clubs (or irons at least) every five years or so. The grooves in irons are particularly prone to wearing out over the course of a few years. Plus, golf technology is continually advancing, so it’s wise to get fitted each time you buy new clubs so that you can take advantage of the latest game improvement features. Your swing may subtly change over time, so it’s helpful to get regular assessments, so that you can get the most from your game.
Getting your clubs fitted will help optimise your flight direction, trajectory and efficiency, and will give you much more confidence in your game. A professional club fitter will analyse the data from your swing and lead you to equipment that will give you the best possible results.
Read more about where to spend and where to save on your golf gear here.
