Even at the greatest level of competition, top professionals swing the golf club in a variety of different ways. There is, undoubtedly, more than one way to get the job done, however, if you're new to the game or are still in the early stages, getting the fundamentals right will certainly help you develop more consistent golf swings. Once you have learnt the fundamentals, it will be much easier to keep your swing in good working order.

Range Practice vs. Professional Lessons:

Is it better to practice on the range or take lessons for your first golf round? If you have this question in mind you are not alone. So, let us tell you that lessons are undoubtedly the way to go. If you have the time and money to spend on a few lessons or are serious about playing golf for the long term. However, if you don't have time to plan lessons or just want to work on the fundamentals like learning the best swing techniques, using the driving range to get used to swinging will be completely worthwhile. It’s always great to have a seasoned golfer around you though, to ensure the right practice. 

Grip: 

Please keep in mind that there are various grips you can attempt, for a simple neutral grip:

• Hold your golf club in front of you and square the club face.
• Place your left hand on the club first, ensuring that the club handle is aligned with your palm and that the grip makes a straight line across your fingers. 
• Close your hand around the club and turn your left hand to the right so that two of the knuckles on your left hand are visible.
• After this place the heel of your right hand over the thumb of your left hand and close your hand. 

The Setup:

This will vary slightly and be dependent on what club you are looking to use. Starting with the short irons ie: 8/9 or a wedge. With the ball being in the centre of your stance, position your feet shoulder-width apart, your target foot can then be opened very slightly (your preference), keeping your back foot square at all times. Your body then needs to be aligned parallel with the target.

Your weight needs to be on the balls of your feet during the swing. Once you have mastered hitting your shorter clubs, then try some of your longer irons. For longer irons, set up with the ball very slightly further forward in your stance, the longer the club the further the ball should be moved forward towards your front foot. You will also need to widen your stance ever so slightly as you start hitting the lower-numbered clubs. 

The Takeaway: 

Your hands, arms, shoulders, and back should all begin to move backwards simultaneously. Remember not to let your hands take over the swing.

When the club is perpendicular to the surface, the club head should be in line or outside your hands. The goal is for your swing to be on a plane, setting you up for solid contact.

When using the driver, place the ball slightly inside your front foot. Merge that with a tiny tilt of your upper body away from the target. This will help you to assist the ball launch at a high angle. When standing over the ball, remember to be flexible and move your arms and legs. Open and free motion is an indication of a good drive.

Backswing: 

• Maintain your posture. If you are out of position, you will have to adjust by lowering your posture, which increases your chances of making poor contact.
• Maintain a flexed right leg so that weight can shift to it. This ensures that the body stores energy by coiling.

The Downswing: 

• Your lower body should lead the upper body as you turn to attack with power. You'll lose yardage if you don't.
• Keep your right elbow close to your body when the club goes downward. This will assist the club in staying on the inside path.
• Clubhead lag occurs when you maintain the angle between your left arm and the club shaft while swinging down. The greater the lag, the greater the acceleration at the bottom of the swing.

Hitting the Ball:

• Make sure your weight shifts from your back foot to your front foot to make strong contact.
• Just as your right arm begins to stretch, the clubface should spin closed.
• Swinging the club from the inside will seem natural and effortless.

The Follow-Through: 

• When your arms are completely extended toward the target, you have made an impact. That signifies you've used up all of your energy on the backswing.
• Your weight should be firmly put on the front foot.
• Even as the ball takes flight, your torso should continue to shift left.

Chipping: 

• When chipping, you should place your weight on the front foot and the ball on the rear foot. This will aid in making a firm touch.
• Your wrists must be solid.
• Throughout the shot, keep your upper body spinning. When finished, your chest should be facing forward.

Bunker Shot: 

• Hitting from the sand can be difficult. It's critical to begin by taking a wide stance and allowing your feet to dig in.
• It's important to remember that you're not truly hitting the ball on a bunker shot. Because you're going to hit the sand behind it, take a strong swing back and follow through.

Putting:

• Begin by standing parallel to the ball and staring straight down. Your hands should be just beneath your shoulders.
• The putter head goes back and forth in a straight line. When the stroke lengthens, it begins to form a circular arch.
• Concentrate on putting the ball at a consistent pace, and remember to follow through constantly, or you will cut it short.

Golf may be pretty technical, so divide your practice time between 'technical practice' and skill practice.' You can concentrate on golf swing positions during technical practice and fine-tuning your movement. Try to add some skill practice each week, where you worry less about your technique and just try to hit the ball towards your target.

A golf swing can only cover so much ground. However, these fundamentals will get you started or, at the very least, get you through your first game of golf. You'll feel like a pro when you make firm contact or sink a putt.  If you want to practice the best golf swings, it is vital to buy the correct golf equipment. The Golf Swap Shop is your ultimate online shop that offers a wide range of used and new golfing equipment. Visit the website today and shop for the best equipment and learn the best swing techniques.