In the world of sports, myths and misconceptions often spread by word of mouth without any factual foundation. Golf, a sport growing in popularity among modern society, is no exception. Several widespread beliefs about golf are not only inaccurate but can also discourage people who might otherwise take up the game with enthusiasm.
This GoGolf article sheds light on eight of the most common myths in golf that need to be addressed so they don’t become roadblocks to fully enjoying the game.
1. Golf Is an Expensive Sport
The perception that golf is an elite and costly sport has long been ingrained in the public mindset. Media portrayal of professional golfers, luxurious tournament venues, and high-end equipment often reinforce this image.
However, the reality is that golf can be accessible to everyone. Many golf courses today offer affordable green fees. For example, several courses around the Greater Jakarta area offer 9-hole packages under IDR 500,000—often inclusive of equipment rental and a caddie. Driving ranges also provide cost-effective practice options, with ball baskets priced between IDR 25,000 and 50,000.
Beginners don’t need to purchase a full set of golf clubs right away. Most golf venues offer quality rental sets. Choosing non-peak hours and joining local golf communities are great ways to enjoy the sport affordably while also expanding your social network.
2. Golf Is a Men’s Sport
The idea that golf is a “men’s game” is completely outdated. While historically male-dominated, golf has evolved into an inclusive sport embraced by men, women, and even children.
Trailblazers like Lydia Ko, Lexi Thompson, and Ariya Jutanugarn have proven that women can excel on the global stage. In Indonesia, more women are joining golf communities and academies as interest continues to grow.
Many courses and driving ranges now offer beginner-friendly programs specifically for women and children, designed to be welcoming and accessible. With this inclusive shift, it’s clear that golf is for everyone.
3. Golf Takes the Whole Day
One of the top reasons people shy away from golf is the belief that it takes too much time. In reality, game duration can be adjusted to fit any schedule.
A full 18-hole round generally takes around 4 hours. If time is tight, you can opt for 9 holes, which takes just about 2 hours. At a driving range, practice sessions can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Golf also offers scheduling flexibility—you can play early in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening. With proper time management, golf can easily fit into a busy lifestyle.
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4. You Need Expensive Equipment to Start
Many beginners are deterred by the assumption that you need a full set of golf clubs, special shoes, and other pricey gear to start playing. In truth, you can begin with minimal investment.
Most golf facilities offer daily rental options for clubs, and many driving ranges provide rental equipment as well. As long as you wear neat and comfortable attire along with shoes that won’t damage the turf, you’re good to go.
To start, a few key clubs like a driver, 7-iron, pitching wedge, and putter are sufficient. As your skills grow, you can gradually invest in your own customized equipment.
5. Golf Is Stiff and Monotonous
Many view golf as overly formal and lacking excitement. This perception usually comes from unfamiliarity with the game’s depth.
Golf is actually rich in strategy and technical complexity. Each hole presents a new challenge—different course contours, bunker positions, wind conditions, and unique green layouts make no two games alike.
It’s also a social sport, encouraging relaxed interaction between players throughout the round. Many people use golf as a way to strengthen business relationships or expand their professional network.
6. You Must Be a Club Member to Play
Another common misconception is that you must join a club to play golf. While membership offers perks like reduced fees, booking priority, and full access to amenities, it’s by no means a requirement.
Most golf courses today welcome non-members. Simply pay the green fee and enjoy your round. Likewise, driving ranges operate on a pay-per-session basis, making the sport more accessible to the general public.
7. Golf Doesn’t Offer Health Benefits
Though not as intense as sports like running or basketball, golf still provides substantial health benefits. Walking a full 18-hole round can cover 6–8 kilometers and burn up to 900 calories—especially if you skip the golf cart.
Golf involves full-body movement: leg muscles for walking, core strength for swinging, and eye-hand coordination for shot accuracy. It also promotes mental well-being, as the game is played in open green spaces that are calming and refreshing.
Additionally, the social aspect of the game boosts emotional health, making it clear that golf is indeed a healthy sport.
8. Longer Drivers Mean Longer Shots
This myth stems from the assumption that longer clubs generate more swing momentum and thus longer shots. While partially true in theory, longer drivers often reduce control and accuracy in practice.
Research and real-world testing show that many golfers achieve more consistent and powerful shots using drivers of standard or slightly shorter lengths. An appropriately sized driver helps maintain balance, optimal swing angles, and better directional control.
When choosing a driver, consider more than just shaft length—factors like posture, swing speed, and technique preferences matter just as much.
Conclusion
The myths surrounding golf often prevent people from trying or fully committing to the sport. As we’ve explored, most of these misconceptions don’t hold up under scrutiny and can be easily debunked through knowledge and experience.
Golf is an inclusive, flexible, and highly rewarding sport—physically, mentally, and socially. By setting aside these outdated beliefs and embracing the game for what it truly offers, anyone can enjoy the unique beauty and benefits of playing golf.
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