by Jessie Bahrey

Created on: April 13, 2009   Last Updated: April 23, 2009

As a wife whose husband was able to interest her in golf, despite her protestations, there are some sure-fire ways to at least improve the chances that she may pick up the sport. Before discussing some of these methods, husbands should adhere to the best advice there is to soften up their wives to want to learn and participate in this often male dominated sport: Assure her that you would love it if she would learn to golf so that the two of you can enjoy this game together, and so she will not have to sit at home while you are always out on the course with the boys. The fact that you want her to be a part of this aspect of your life will greatly endear you to her, and she will be much more willing to try to learn. Once you have set this groundwork, and she is confident of your intentions, there are several other things you can try.

Take your wife to a golf store to pick out some clubs, and of course, a golf bag and perhaps even a cute animal club cover. Shopping is always a good motivation. Have her swing some clubs, and assure her that once she begins to play enough, she can upgrade to better clubs and invest in some hybrids. While you are in the store, have her pick out some golf shoes and a golf outfit or two. Trust me, shoes of any kind can give women incentive to try almost anything, and having a new outfit that is appropriate for the golf course is of the utmost importance. Now that she has something to wear to the course, as well as shiny new golf clubs, she will be anxious to get out on the links.

Encourage your wife to watch golf with you on television. She can learn a lot from watching the professionals. She can learn the rules and the etiquette of the game, and if she watches enough, she can get to know the players. Knowing who is who in the golf world helps develop an interest in the sport, and may even give her incentive to learn to play herself. And to be honest, which woman does not like to watch Tiger, Camillo Villegas or some of the other 'hotties' who are currently playing professional golf. Watching them can certainly spark an interest in golf, and almost anything else.

When your wife is actually ready to start playing golf, go to the driving range and let her hit some balls. Encourage her swings and if you show her some tips, be upbeat and patient. Patience is of the utmost importance whenever you play golf with your wife; never, ever lose patience or be discouraging, or she will be unlikely to keep learning. Once she is ready for a round, pick a sunny day (nothing could be worse than playing in the cold or rain on her first time out), and pick a pretty course, with nice scenery. Try to book for nine holes for this first attempt, and do your best to book during a less busy time of day, or let the group behind you play through, so that she does not feel hurried or pressured. There is no bigger detriment to learning the game than feeling rushed. While playing with her, be encouraging no matter how terrible she is playing or how long it is taking. That is why nine holes is enough for your wife's first round. It will also prevent the blisters from her new shoes to become too painful. If she becomes discouraged, remind her that the clubhouse serves alcohol.

With a little encouragement, and much patience, you can interest your wife in learning golf. Once she has started to play, keep up her interested by making golf a date for the two of you or a day out with another couple, and have dinner or drinks afterward. Have golf become valued time spent away from her hectic life and time spent with you. And, if she ends up hating golf despite all your efforts, you can at least go golfing with your buddies with a clear conscience.

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