How Golf Teaching Techniques Have Evolved Over Time: Part I

How Golf Teaching Techniques Have Evolved Over Time: Part I

By Ken Martin, Keiser University College of Golf Professor and PGA Certified Professional 

Part I: The Early Days of Golf Instruction

The game of golf has a rich history that dates back more than five centuries. As the game evolved, so too have the methods used to teach it. From the early days of informal lessons passed down through word of mouth to the sophisticated technology-driven approaches used today, golf teaching techniques have undergone significant transformation. This blog will highlight key milestones for how players learn the game. The influence of legendary instructors, the impact of technological advancements, and the growing emphasis on personalized coaching will be reviewed. Regardless of a golfer’s skill level, understanding the evolution of golf teaching techniques can enhance a player’s appreciation for the game and its rich instructive heritage. Enjoy this investigation into how golf instruction has adapted and improved, making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for all who dare to give it a go! 

How Has Golf Instruction Evolved? 

Early golf equipment had a profound effect on the shape of the golf swing. Before the first lesson was given, people developed swings based on the tools for the task, aka equipment. Early golf equipment, particularly from the 15th to the 19th centuries, was characterized by its simplicity and craftsmanship. The following is an overview of the key components and features of early golf clubs and balls. 

Early Golf Clubs 

The primary influence on the development of golf was, most likely, Kolvin, a game played in the Netherlands on fields and ice. This was a stick and ball game where the stick, called a Kolf, resembled a modern-day hockey stick with a flat lie angle, very little loft, and a concave curve to the clubface. The golf clubs patterned after the Kolfwere were made of wood crafted from local European trees such as ash, hazel, beech, holly, pear, and apple. The club heads were often made from the tougher of these woods to withstand impact. Clubs were typically handmade by the golfers themselves or by local craftsmen (typically bow makers), resulting in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. In the beginning, there were certainly no standard designs. However, the design concept was based on a game where a ball was swept along the ground.  

Types of clubs 

Play Clubs: Also called longnose woods, were used for driving and long fairway shots. The clubheads were long from toe to heel and thin from the front of the clubface to the back of the head, with a range of lofts for varied shot distances. 

Spoons: Designed for even shorter shots, these clubs had a more lofted clubface. 

Niblicks: Comparable to today’s wedge, they were used for short approach shots and getting out of tricky lies such as wagon wheel ruts. 

Putting Cleeks: Like putters of today for use in rolling a ball into the hole, these were typically longer and made without loft. 

Club Design Evolution 

Through the 17th century, experimentation continued with club faces using materials like leather and metal to enhance performance. The introduction of forged metal heads for niblicks occurred around 1750, although wooden clubs remained prevalent due to their compatibility with fragile feathery golf balls. 

Early Golf Balls 

The feathery golf ball era began in the early 1400s. By the 1600s, this ball was virtually perfected by stitching together three leather panels into a pouch and filling it with feathers (mostly from geese). This construction was time-consuming, making the ball expensive and prone to damage when miss struck or overused. The feathery ball dominated golf for over 300 years but, due to its fragility and cost, it became a limitation to growth in the game. 

Transition to Gutta-Percha Balls 

In the mid-19th century, gutta-percha balls began to replace the feathery. Made from the sap of the gutta-percha tree, these balls were more durable and could be produced more economically. Gutta-percha balls could also be remolded when cracked or chipped. Eventually, the molds featured a dimpled surface that improved the ball’s aerodynamics. 

Equipment and the Evolution of Golf Instruction 

As mentioned, the feathery was fragile and expensive. The first club designed to strike it was patterned after a club made for a game played on ice. It follows that early golf equipment design with long club shafts and flat lie angles defined the shape of an effective golf swing.  

The swing had to be on a flat plane, such that the clubhead made a sweeping of the ground motion. Imagine swinging a flagstick. The only way to contact a golf ball would be from a very level to the ground approach angle. The club (Kolf) was of such a flat lie angle that the only swing that could create a quality strike with it had to be on a flat swing plane. Simply stated, the swing style was defined by the equipment. Golf instruction was defined by this swing style. One may have heard the concept of swing in a barrel; this stems from the Scots playing golf with a Kolf. The best swing would be around the body, not up and down. 

Evolution of Golf Teaching 

The golf swing began as a motion of a long club on a flat plane, and this remained the standard throughout the feathery ball period. With the change to the gutta percha (gutty) ball, the golf club changed also. The harder material required a more durable golf club. Hence, the iron club was introduced and eventually used for most golf shots played after the tee shot with the driver, which was still made of wood.  

The iron clubs were shorter and had a more upright lie angle; hence, the shape of the swing with those clubs needed to be on a more upright plane to create the descending approach angle to strike the ball solidly. Golf instruction evolved significantly over the years, primarily reflecting the changing advancements in golf equipment. Following is a closer look at the key developments in this evolution, beginning with historical foundations. 

Early Golf Teaching Techniques 

Tom Morris  

Old Tom Morris, a pivotal figure in the history of golf, played a crucial role in shaping early golf teaching techniques during the mid-19th century. His methods laid the groundwork for formal instruction in the sport, emphasizing several key principles that remain relevant today. 

• Focus on Swing Mechanics – Morris prioritized the fundamentals of swing mechanics. He believed that a solid understanding of how to execute a proper swing was essential for any golfer. His instruction was centered around developing a consistent and effective swing, which he taught through direct demonstration and verbal guidance. 
• Verbal Instruction and Demonstration – Instruction during Morris’s time was predominantly verbal, with instructors explaining techniques and demonstrating them in person. This hands-on approach allowed students to observe and mimic the proper movements, making it easier for them to grasp the concepts being taught. 
• Emphasis on Course Management – Beyond just swing mechanics, Morris also stressed the importance of course management. He taught players how to navigate the course strategically, which included understanding when to take risks and when to play conservatively. This holistic approach aimed to develop well-rounded golfers who could think critically about their game. 
• Use of Available Tools – Morris utilized whatever tools were at his disposal to enhance his teaching. While technology was rudimentary compared to today’s standards, he made effective use of basic training aids and equipment to help illustrate key concepts. 
• Personal Connection with Students – Morris was known for his ability to connect personally with his students, fostering an encouraging learning environment. His mentorship style helped instill confidence in his pupils, which is crucial for skill development in any sport. 

Old Tom Morris’s contributions to golf instruction not only established foundational teaching techniques but also inspired future generations of golfers and instructors. His emphasis on technique, course management, and personal connection continues to influence modern coaching practices today. 

Traditional Techniques 

Traditional methods of golf instruction took shape primarily by modeling the setup and swings of emerging great players. For example, the golfing prodigy Young Tom Morris developed a unique backswing concept that allowed him to hit the drive further than most. This became the model for swing instruction. Soon after Young Tom, Harry Vardon became one of the greatest players in the world between 1895 and 1911. His unique way of holding the club became the model for grip instruction, to the point that the Vardon Grip is still used by the vast majority of golfers today.  

The following is an overview of the core aspects of traditional golf teaching methods: 

• Verbal Instruction and Demonstration – Traditional golf instruction primarily relied on verbal explanations accompanied by demonstrations. Instructors would explain the mechanics of the swing and other techniques, often modeling the actions themselves to provide students with a clear visual reference. This hands-on approach made it easier for learners to grasp fundamental concepts. 
• Emphasis on Swing Mechanics – A significant focus of traditional methods is on mastering swing mechanics. Instructors taught students the importance of grip, stance, posture, and alignment as foundational elements for a successful swing. The mechanics were often broken down into specific components, such as shoulder turn, weight shift, and follow-through. 
• Sequential Learning – Traditional instruction typically followed a sequential learning process, where students progressed through stages of understanding—from basic grip and stance to more complex movements in the swing. This structured approach aimed to build a solid foundation before introducing advanced techniques. 
• Use of Available Tools – Instructors utilized whatever tools were available at the time to aid in teaching. This could include basic training aids like alignment sticks or even simple visual markers on the ground to help students understand their positioning and movement. 
• Focus on Course Management – Beyond just swing mechanics, traditional methods often included instruction on course management strategies. Instructors emphasized the importance of decision-making on the course, teaching players how to assess risks and plan their shots effectively. 
• Feedback and Correction – Feedback was a crucial component of traditional instruction. Instructors would observe students’ swings and provide immediate corrections based on their performance. This real-time feedback helped learners adjust their techniques and improve their skills progressively. 

20th Century Developments – Integration of Early Technology 

As the 20th century progressed, golf instruction began to incorporate technological approaches to the concept of imitation and repetition. Examples are Chick Evans using records (vinyl) to share his feelings on the swing. Bobby Jones shared his thoughts through a video series played in movie houses in the early 1930s. Coaches like Harvey Penick utilized emerging video technology for swing analysis, marking a shift towards more structured teaching methods of how to move the body. This era also saw the rise of instructional books and manuals, making how-to coaching more accessible. Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods all shared how they swing through authoring books.  

Imitation and repetition are foundational concepts in golf instruction, playing critical roles in how golfers learn and refine their skills. Following is an overview of these concepts. 

Imitation in Golf Instruction 

• Learning by Example – Imitation involves observing and replicating the actions of skilled players or instructors. This method allows learners to understand the mechanics of a successful golf swing by watching experienced golfers perform it. Instructors often demonstrate techniques, encouraging students to mimic their movements to internalize proper form. 
• Visual Feedback – Using video analysis, instructors can show students their swings alongside those of professional golfers. This visual feedback helps learners identify discrepancies in their technique and understand the nuances of effective swings, making it easier to adjust their movements accordingly. 
• Cognitive Processing – Imitation also engages cognitive processes where learners analyze the actions they observe. By breaking down the components of a swing—such as grip, stance, and follow-through—students can better understand how each part contributes to the overall performance. 

Repetition in Golf Instruction 

Muscle Memory Development – Repetition is essential for developing muscle memory, which allows golfers to perform complex movements automatically over time. By practicing specific swings repeatedly, golfers reinforce the neural pathways associated with those movements, making them more instinctive during play. 

Structured Practice Sessions 

Traditional golf instruction often incorporates structured practice sessions where students repeat specific drills focused on particular skills (e.g., putting, chipping, full swings). This approach enables golfers to concentrate on refining their technique through consistent practice. 

Block vs. Random Repetition 

Repetition can be categorized into two types: block repetition and random repetition. Block repetition involves practicing the same shot multiple times in succession, which can be beneficial for mastering specific techniques. In contrast, random repetition mixes different shots (e.g., alternating clubs), simulating on-course conditions and enhancing adaptability and decision-making skills under pressure. 

Early Golf Drills and Swing Models 

Early swing models were foundational in shaping the techniques and philosophies of golf instruction. These models often emphasized simplicity, feel, and fundamental mechanics rather than the complex body positions that later became prevalent.  

Key Early Golf Swing Models 

1. Ernest Jones’s Pendulum Swing 

Ernest Jones, a British golf pro, taught that the golf swing should be viewed as a pendulum. He emphasized the importance of the club movement over specific body positions. Jones believed that by focusing on the motion of the golf club, similar to swinging a pendulum, golfers could achieve better consistency. His teaching was based on the idea that golfers should minimize “paralysis by analysis” and concentrate on the feel of the swinging golf club.

2. J. Victor East’s Impact Focus

Victor East advocated for a model centered around impact rather than the entire swing mechanics. He suggested that golfers should concentrate on the one inch before and after the ball, emphasizing that proper impact was crucial for determining ball flight. His method involved simple practice swings aimed at achieving correct impact positioning while minimizing attention to backswing and follow-through.

3. Mindy Blake’s Modern Swing Concepts

Mindy Blake introduced ideas about body rotation and hip movement in his teaching. He noted a trend towards restricted hip turns and less overall body rotation in modern swings compared to earlier models. Blake’s approach highlighted the importance of maintaining a compact swing while still achieving effective ball striking, paving the way for later developments in swing efficiency. 

Transition to Modern Techniques 

As technology advanced, particularly with the introduction of high-speed cameras and launch monitors, golf instruction began shifting focus from these early models to more detailed analyses of body positions and movements. This transition led to a greater emphasis on achieving specific biomechanical positions during the swing, which some critics argue resulted in “paralysis by analysis,” detracting from the feel-based approaches of earlier instructors. 

A seminal work in tying the club movement and body motions together was the PGA Teaching Manual written by Dr. Gary Wiren. The model presented in this text is that of Laws, Principles, and Preferences. This model added structure to the process of teaching and learning golf that effectively covers all aspects. 

Early Golf Swing Plane Training Drills 

Early golf swing plane training focused on the fundamental concept of maintaining the correct swing plane throughout the golf swing. The swing plane is an imaginary inclined flat surface that extends from the ball to the top of the swing and back down to the ball, influencing the direction and trajectory of the shot.  

Key Concepts of Early Swing Plane Training 

• Understanding Swing Plane – The swing plane is defined by the angle of the club shaft at address and how it relates to the golfer’s body during the swing. Early instruction emphasized that a proper swing should keep the club on this plane to ensure consistent ball striking. Golfers were taught to visualize this plane as a line extending from their shoulders through the ball. 
• Use of Drills and Visual Aids – Instructors utilized various drills and visual aids to help golfers understand and practice maintaining their swing on plane. Simple drills often involved using alignment sticks or markers on the ground to guide the golfer’s club path during practice swings. These tools helped reinforce the concept of swinging along the correct path. 
• Focus on Body Mechanics – Early training emphasized proper body mechanics, including shoulder rotation and hip movement, to maintain the correct swing plane. Instructors taught golfers to initiate their swings with their shoulders while allowing their hips to rotate naturally, promoting a fluid motion that adhered to the desired plane. 
• Repetition and Muscle Memory – Repetition was a critical component of early swing plane training. Golfers practiced their swings repeatedly to develop muscle memory, allowing them to internalize the feel of a proper swing path. This focus on repetition helped players become more consistent in hitting shots on target. 
• Emphasis on Impact Position – Instructors stressed that achieving a proper impact position was crucial for successful shots. Golfers were encouraged to focus on where the club made contact with the ball, reinforcing that maintaining alignment with the swing plane would lead to better impact and improved shot accuracy. 

In next month’s Part II of this blog, we will examine modern teaching techniques and explore the future of technology in golf instruction. 

Learn More!

If you want to take your game to the next level, contact our team at Keiser University’s College of Golf & Sport Management today. With our dedication and experience, we can elevate your game to new heights together. Give us a call today at 888-355-4465.