Learning Golf's Essential Elements

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1434351734 ISBN 13: 9781434351739

Publisher: AuthorHouse, 2008

There are many reasons why people play the game of golf. Some wish to play great while others hope only to become competent enough to not embarrass themselves. Yet regardless of their ability or intentions and time available most golfers seem to have the desire to experience that great golf shot or play a terrific round. Learning Golf's Essential Elements helps the golfer understand the process that it takes to learn to develop and increase physical ability, knowledge of the golf swing and game. It may be used by an individual, a group or as a class textbook. This book provides a systematic way of learning and understanding the game beginning with the golf swing. Physical limitations, time constraints and unrealistic expectations are just a few of the reasons discussed for golfers having difficulty realizing their goals. Drills and exercises are outlined and practice routines are developed. Throughout the book are stories of the author's experiences as he has learned and taught the game over the years. Many of the stories are humorous but all have a purpose in helping the reader understand the struggles of learning the game. Learning the golf swing, an essential element, is a major portion of the book. While the golf swing is important the game doesn't stop there. Putting, the short game, etiquette, rules and vocabulary are all included. Drills and routines are described for both putting and the short game. Etiquette may be the most important yet neglected component. No game can be played without rules and explanations of the most common rules are given. Necessary vocabulary is integrated throughout the book and is also a chapter itself. Whatever the motive for playing the game the reader will benefit and enjoy Learning Golf's Essential Elements.

About the Author:

Jim Howe began playing golf in 1961. Since then, the thousands of rounds, hundreds of tournaments, countless hours of practice, and just passion for the game have all given him a great background for teaching the game. He has continued tournament play throughout his career. As important as playing has been for the past thirty-five years, teaching has been more of his primary focus, starting at Ridge Country Club in Chicago, then moving west to California in the late '70s. It was at his first California stop, Newport Beach G.C., where he began using video during lessons. Around the same time he began teaching large classes at a local community college. The feedback from watching the video and from student comments, particularly the large groups, began shaping him into a teacher, not just someone who knew the golf swing. In 1980 he took the position as golf coach at Cal State University-Fullerton, which also gave him the opportunity to teach classes as a member the physical education staff. This staff position is one that he still holds today. The experience of coaching Division One players and teaching college classes as well as returning to school to further his education helped him continue to develop his method, style, and format. Attempting to follow the footsteps of the famous teachers Earnest Jones and Percy Boomer he taught indoors for several years. It was during this time that he developed a methodology that used a comparative analysis. This has become a very popular format in modern instruction. At the present he can be found teaching classes at Cal State University-Fullerton. He also teaches private and group lessons at a public golf course in Brea, California. Jim can be reached by e-mail at jhowe2@aol.com.