FORE! (If you yell this a lot, try a lesson!) Can you hit this thing right every time?

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Questions & Answers
Responses from PGA/LPGA Teachers on FINDaLESSON.com                                                                                  << BACK
From Andre, golfer:
My golf handicap is between 15 and 17. What is your recommendation for finding an instructor? Should I only seek out instructors who are club-fitting specialist or do you feel its better to take lessons from any instructor and then seek out a club-fitting specialist?
PGA/LPGA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL RESPONSES:
California
"I recommend that you find someone who is skilled in both areas. Your teacher may or may not be the best club fitter.  But that Professional should know your swing, your strengths and physical characteristics, and then make recommendations. Interview Golf Professionals to find out there teaching philosophies, education, and background. Find out if they are willing to work with you
towards your goals, and help determine what would get you there the fastest. Find someone who in not a method teacher that you have to conform to, but will work with you and what you bring to the table." 
- Mardell Wilkins, Teaching Professional
California
"Having the right equipment is key to improving at a rapid pace. People often think that they should not buy new equipment until they have a better swing. I think just the opposite is true. If you can find an instructor that does club fitting and is certified to do so (ask) that would be a good way to go. That person will understand your swing and can then continue to help you attain your other goals. Don't forget the short game.  Reducing your average putts per round and improving your bunker skills is a great way to lower your scores!" - Linda Ramirez, Teaching Professional
California
"Andre: Your question is best answered by this recommendation. Find yourself a Henry-Griffits Teacher Fitter. They go together. The golf club will influence the golf swing. If you want to contact me, I will be happy to find you a teacher fitter to help you." - Ruben Samaniego, Teaching Professional
California
"Hello Andre: In my humble opinion, I feel you should seek a PGA Professional to teach you first. Club fitting is very important, however, if you're going to make swing changes to become an accomplished player, do that first. Once you have a swing that repeats functionally then seek a club fitter (also a good idea if that person is a PGA Professional) to match equipment to your improved swing. Good Luck!"
- Michael Kastner, Teaching Professional
California
"Club Fitting and golf instruction go hand in hand. Your body will not be able to make the best athletic move if the equipment you are using doesn't fit you properly. Golf Instruction and Club Fitting is a Science. Finding someone who is adept at both will help you reach your goals." 
- Bob Veroulis, Teaching Professional
California
"I think equipment has taken on so much importance these days that obviously we should strive to have the proper equipment. However I know golfers, and they will make what ever you give them work. I have seen so many people spend money on equipment thinking they are getting this immediate cure for what ever ails them. The truth is that if you hit the ball in the middle of the club with sound fundamentals you can hit a brick on a broomstick. Without adding all the variables, like increased sweet spot, perimeter weighting and that type of club enhancement, I would get a fundamentally sound swing, concentrating on centeredness of contact, and then you can tell the difference in the clubs instead the clubs telling you the difference." - Dan Horvat, Teaching Professional
California
"Andre: I would start with a teaching professional. A determination needs to be made about your swing before fitting for clubs. Both are important! If you need to talk to someone close, give me a call." 
- David Wurzer, Teaching Professional
California
"Andre: I am assuming that you are an adult (done growing) and here is my advice. First get fit for clubs. You know you like the game and to achieve your goals, you will need clubs that suit you. A professional fitter will help you through the process.  Many beginners make the mistake of using hand me downs that are too short, long, stiff, flexible, etc. Did you know that even the wrong size grip will keep you from hitting the ball properly.  There is also the question of steel vs. graphite and cast vs. forged. In you quest to find a club fitter....BEWARE.....Many club fitters have their own agenda and are trying to fit you into clubs that bring them the highest profit margin. A good place to start is to check out the LPGA/PGA web site for a professional near you. Call and ask them if they do custom club fitting. Also ask what brands they offer. Keep calling and make sure you are able to sample many brands. It is a fun process and usually done at no charge if you purchase. But, seek out a LPGA/PGA professional and you may accomplish all your objectives.  Good Luck." 
- Sandy Guzzardo, Teaching Professional
California
"I recently retired after being the Head Professional and Director of Golf at the Rolling Hills CC for over 37 years. RHCC is on the Palos Verdes Penninsula, very close to Long Beach. I teach part-time at RHCC & at the Mulligan's Golf Center in Torrance, where my son is the Head Professional and the DOI. I have taught several professionals, probably John Cook being the most famous, and could possibly help you in regards towards your goals. I believe you should take several lessons before you worry about Club Fitting. I have always believed that the swing must be built FIRST then build the clubs around the player and the swing." - Pat Chartrand, Teaching Professional
California
"
Andre: You are in luck. My name is David Stephens and I am the head golf professional at Lakewood cc just down the road. I am a Titleist certified club fitter and an expert teacher. I would have to see you in person and watch you swing to tell you about the single digit thing. I would welcome an opportunity to meet with you and discuss the possibilities." - David Stephens, Teaching Professional
California
"A bad swing with the most expensive club in the world will produce a bad shot. A better club will help a slightly mishit shot. You cannot fit a bad swing. One must SWING the club rather than SLUG at it, which you do in any other sport. You should not HIT a golf ball but rather SWING the club through it.
Blind people can play golf ......not baseball etc." - John DeSantis, Teaching Professional
California
"Andre, it is nice to have an instructor who is knowledgeable in club fitting, but not necessary. The instructor should know basic club fitting and be able to assist you in finding the proper equipment. There are many good pros around. Sometimes you have to take a lesson from several different ones to find out who you relate to. Do not be bummed if you are not catching on - try some others, but remember, sometimes you get a little worse before you get better. Always practice short game - your instructor should stress that. Good Luck!" - Donald Emerick, Teaching Professional