Technology need not be for everyone

It is time for me to invest in a fairway wood. I started out with a set of irons, inherited an unwanted putter from its previous owner and a gorgeous new driver made its way to my golf bag on my last birthday, which I still haven't got the hang of.

In search of the ideal ‘magic' fairway wood, I turned to the internet and soon realised that choosing fairway woods is rather like buying a new car. Looks and image are important, the club has to be attractive to you. If you think it's an ugly club, you will play ugly, but in the end you really are best off taking it for a spin.

First, I have to question how much amateur golfers really need technology? In the last five years we have seen a golf technology explosion. From launch monitors to 3D motion capture systems to ultra advanced video golf swing analysis systems. Have you noticed the impact that technology is having on golf, especially when it comes to golf equipment? It is no secret that golfers of all levels and experience want to hit the ball further. Technology has done wonders for promoting the game and making it more enjoyable to all levels of play. However, not everyone is sharing this enjoyment when it comes to the impact of updated and technologically advanced equipment.

I like technology, don't get me wrong. But I also like my clubs and I like golf balls that are really round. As a player you want to gain the maximum enjoyment value while playing the game. This means experiencing the thrill of hitting it farther and the rewards that come with that, understanding the impact that new equipment has on your game and getting a feel for the true advantages.

Gaining realistic feedback in terms of how far you are hitting each club on average will translate to a more enjoyable round on the golf course and will minimise any anxieties you may have pertaining to confidence and the ability to feel secure in your shot-making abilities.

Technology is only as good as the person using it. Do your homework and develop your own opinion of how important these technological products are to your game. For some they can open up doors to improvement through things like equipment fitting and swing analysis. For others they are just more sources of confusing information that get in the way of the ultimate goal - getting the ball into the hole with the fewest amount of hits.

The club must be the correct fit for swing weight, flex, length, correct grip and angle. It is more than time that I think about getting my clubs fitted, old and new. It's hard to admit, but the only way you can be sure you are getting maximum benefit out of your golf clubs is to get them fitted from a golf pro or retailer who knows what they are doing. Getting fitted for golf clubs can be expensive, but it is worth the investment, something even a beginning golfer should consider.

If you have the correct clubs for your game, your game will improve and you will have more fun. Golf is not an easy sport and it is too easy to get discouraged and quit if your game is going nowhere.

The bottom line: Get fitted, improve, play better, have fun, and keep on playing.