Here on this blog, we often give advice about the things you should be doing to improve your golf game, increase your longevity as a golfer and stay healthy and injury-free. This time, we’re going to take a dive into what you shouldn’t be doing on the golf course. Here’s what NOT to do if you want to ensure everyone stays safe and enjoys the game.
Show up late
It’s a cardinal rule of golf that you should always show up on time. At least 15 minutes early is advised (preferably more) – this gives you time to warm up and prepare properly, and prevents your playing partners from worrying.
Step on someone else’s line
It’s expected that you walk around the putting lines of players in your group, so that your shoes don’t damage the green and potentially knock someone’s ball offline during the putt. No one likes it when players do this, so be aware of what’s going on around you on the green.
Lose your temper often
No one wants to play with that person who loses their temper, screams, swears and throws their club after every bad shot. It’s just a game, it’s not the pro tour and it’s supposed to be fun. Chill out, learn to control your rage and just enjoy it.
Hit your ball into the group ahead
Not only is this rude, it’s also extremely dangerous. Just wait till they move on before hitting your shot.
Take alcohol
You want to enjoy the game, but alcohol is not the way to do it, and will probably lead to some unpleasant consequences. Plus, most clubs will frown on it. Leave the alcohol at home, or wait till your round is complete and visit the club bar.
Steal golf balls
Don’t hunt for stray golf balls while you’re supposed to be playing – it’s just considered poor etiquette.
Bring your dog
Sure, Fido might be your best friend who likes to be with you in everything you do, but that doesn’t mean he belongs on the golf course. He’s most likely going to get in the way, annoy others or even get hurt. Leave your furry friend at home.
Dress sloppily
Golf has a dress code, and it’s wise to stick to it, rather than trying to play in shorts, a singlet and thongs. While it’s entirely possible to do this, it’s not respectful – plus, dressing well instils confidence and it may actually help you play better when you’re looking good.
Fail to book a tee time
Failing to book means you might turn up and find a tournament in progress, or all the slots taken. Book your tee times in advance to ensure you can get in that round when you want to. Slots go quickly at popular times, so try and book a week or two in advance.
Give unwanted advice
Most golfers are proud people, and may not always be receptive to unwelcome advice. You probably know your golf buddies and how they handle advice, but a general rule of thumb is to wait until someone asks before giving advice.
Stay glued to your phone
If you’re going to spend the whole time scrolling on your phone or taking calls, then why even bother playing a round? One of the great things about golf is getting out in the fresh air, spending time with friends and switching off from the rest of the world. Enjoy that – unless it’s an emergency, you can deal with everything else later. It’s also distracting for your playing partners. If you must bring your phone, put it on silent and don’t check it too often.
Take too many practice swings
Let’s face it – we’re not playing the pro tour. You probably need about two to three practice swings tops – anything else is overkill and is just going to irritate everyone else and hold up the group unnecessarily.
Cheat
It should go without saying, but cheating is not on. Record your scores honestly, hit your ball where it lies and don’t try and fudge the rules. What’s the point anyway?
Stand in player’s peripheral vision or line of sight when swinging
Great concentration is required to hit a golf ball well, and someone walking into eyesight of a player during their swing is enough to derail any shot. Remember to stand still when it’s not your turn, and away from the other player’s line of sight or peripheral vision.
Hit someone else’s ball
Make very sure you check the ball you’re about to hit, to ensure it’s actually yours – it annoys players no end when someone else hits their ball. It’s a simple thing but it makes a big difference.
Blast music
There’s nothing wrong with music on the course – as long as it’s agreeable to your playing partners. Just don’t blare it loudly so that everyone around you is forced to listen – whether they like it or not.
Commentate on other’s shots
You may think you’re being helpful or funny – but chances are, others find it a tad annoying. Keep your commentary to yourself.
Refuse to let faster groups play through
If you’re a beginner or slow player, swallow your pride and let the faster groups play through. They’ll appreciate it no end, and you’ll help play to keep flowing, rather than causing a build-up of aggravated players.
Fail to fix ball marks and divots
You should always fill your divots and fix your ball marks, so you leave the course in the same condition you found it in. It’s just good manners.
Talk to your partners while swinging
There’s nothing more annoying than someone nattering away while you’re preparing to swing – or actually swinging. Be considerate of others and hold your chatter until they’re done.
Fail to rake the bunker
Sure, no one likes it when they end up in the sand, but it’s even worse if the player who was there before you failed to rake their footprints out. Make the experience as painless as possible for everyone, and rake the bunker before you leave.
Forget to watch your partner’s ball
Give your partners the respect of watching their ball flight – then you can help him or her find it if it ends up in trouble.
