First time on the golf course? Here's what to do! | The Beginner's Guide to Starting Golf
In this beginner's guide, Paige Spiranac explains the fundamentals of playing on a golf course for the first time. She breaks down the concept of par, explains scoring terminology from eagles to 'snowmen,' and provides realistic score expectations to help new golfers feel comfortable on the course.
Most golf courses are a par 72, though par 70, 71, and 73 also exist.
Do not feel pressured by 'par'; most amateur golfers shoot in the 90s or 100s, not the 70s.
Scoring terms to know: Birdie (1 under par), Par (even), Bogey (1 over par), and Eagle (2 under par).
An '8' on a scorecard is commonly referred to as a 'snowman' because of its shape.
To maintain pace of play, it is perfectly acceptable for beginners to pick up their ball after reaching a triple bogey.