5 Tips on How to Encourage More Women to Take Up Golf

What can be done to encourage more women to take up golf?

Historically golf has been a male-dominated sport, but it is growing rapidly in popularity amongst women of all ages. Men often times define golf as an acronym that stands for: gentlemen only, ladies forbidden. I think it is safe to safe that those days are over and that golf has become a very popular sport for girls and women of all ages to take up, however, the number of male golfers is far greater than female golfers and there is still a lot more that can be done in order to encourage women to take up this great game. Let’s take a closer look at what can be done in order for more women to walk the fairways on a regular basis.

1. Increase coverage of professional events

Female professional tours around the globe are always in a battle for television coverage. Television coverage of ladies professional golf allows fans the opportunity to not only just watch the action, but it also allows them to follow a specific player or players. Young girls in particular will be encouraged to take up the game if they have a sporting hero that plays on one of the main tours around the world. Annika Sorenstam inspired many young girls to play golf, and in recent years Lexi Thompson and Brooke Henderson are both inspiring the next generation of golfing superstars.

2. Choose the correct environment for beginners

Playing a round of golf can be a very daunting task. Golf novices are easily intimidated by playing 18 holes against seasoned campaigners. A short par 3 course is the perfect starting point for a beginner, it is not as intimidating as a regular golf course in terms of length, and it is also a good place to build confidence before putting your skills to test on a real course. As well as choosing the correct environment, picking the right equipment is also crucial. For example, certain clubs such as wedges can be more forgiving for beginners and high handicappers, as this guide explores.

3. Don’t be scared, give it a go

Taking on any new challenge in life can be very scary, but you won’t know if you like it unless you try. Many have uttered the words: “Golf is boring, it’s definitely not for me.” I’ve heard it time and again, after a few well struck shots or long putts holed and a glass of wine at the start, even the biggest non-believers get bit by the golf bug.

4. Go for a lesson with a qualified professional to get started

Golf is a difficult sport, don’t try to figure it all out on your own. Lessons from your local teaching professional will be a great investment into the future success of your golf game. Lessons will also ensure that the basic elements of your golf swing are in place right from the get go. Good guidance will ensure that you stick to it once you take up this great game.  

5. Attend a clinic

Attending a ladies golf clinic at a golf course in your area is a great idea if you want to take up this great game. Not only will you learn about golf at such a clinic, you will also meet a host of other female golfers in your area that you can potentially go and play a round with once you feel comfortable to go out onto the course. Playing with your peers that are also new to the game will create a judgment-free encouraging environment out on the course. Golf will open many new doors for you, all you have to do is to go and play.