Are you worried about starting golf because you worry it will cost too much? Do you assume it takes too long to play? Does it conjure up the image of a stuffy, old-fashioned game? It’s time to rethink all those golfing myths that might be holding you back from taking up the game. Here are some of the most common myths about golf and the truth about what really happens in the modern game…   Myth 1: Golf takes all day to play Golf can take no longer than any other hobby or pastime, there are quicker ways to play the game that fit in with busy lifestyles in which two hours is now the span for most leisure activities such as going to the cinema, dinning out, playing tennis, bowling, going to the gym.

The average round of 18 holes of golf takes four hours. However, you can play just nine holes which takes half the time.

Don’t let time constraints put you off playing golf, nine holes is fine as less really does mean more… Myth 2: Golf is a stuffy game Golf is changing – with a new wave of players, fans, locations and playing formats, however many people still think its stuck in the Victorian age when men had to wear a jacket and tie and ladies could only play on selected days and time and weren’t allowed full access to the club. This is not what you’ll find in today’s modern golf clubs. Most are vibrant and welcoming with a range of memberships to meet all lifestyles.

Myth 3: Golf is a game for men Golf is a game for all. Unlike any other sport, golf’s unique handicap system allows people of different abilities to play and compete together.  There are some great women players, such Annika Sorenstam and Paula Creamer.

With plenty of time for conversation on the course and a great social life in the club house after, it’s a great game for women and men alike. Golf offers a winning combination of exercise, sporting skill and social interaction that make it the perfect tonic for health and happiness.

Myth 4: Golf is an expensive game Golf does not need to be expensive and like any other sport you can spend as little or as much as you like.

There are playing options, equipment and clothing to suit every budget.

Get started with a five-week beginner courses from Get into Golf for £25, equipment will be provided. Buy new sets of start-up golf clubs and bag for as little as £200 or pick up a second-hand set from £50 Novice memberships at clubs start from £200 for the year and payments can be spread over the year.

  Myth 5: You need a set of golf clubs to get started You don’t need equipment to get started because all Get into Golf centres will provide you with clubs for lessons. You just need to turn up wearing comfortable, casual clothes and trainers.

Myth 6: Golf won’t keep you fit You can walk around six miles in the average game of golf.

This regular walking, combined with pulling your golf bag and swinging your clubs will help keep you fit and active. Played regularly golf will help keep you active with all the associated health benefits such as reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, stress, depression and diabetes.

Myth 7: You need to be a member of a golf club This is not essential if you want to learn to play.

The Get into Golf programme is making the game more accessible to beginners through beginner courses that you just book and turn up on the day.

Today 72% of golfers in the UK are not members of a golf club. They just book and play when they want.   However, being a member of a golf club can offer many social and playing benefits, such as organised competitions and events.

Get ready for the golfing season Launch your season at Mc Cool Golf Academy, Enniskillen Golf Club. Great selection of game improving tuition offers available.

Book a fitting session in our new state of the art fitting studio, using the latest in golf swing/fitting technology-GC2 simulator as used on Sky Sports.

For more details call the pro shop at Enniskillen Golf Club on 028 66325250 or email liam@thegolfcabin.co.uk Wide selection of offers available in store or online at www.thegolfcabin.co.uk