Golf Magazines Complete Book of Golf Instruction

Many books tout themselves as being an all-in-one course on golf instruction. Few live up to it, because of overemphasis on the swing rather than all the other facets of the game. Where Golf Magazine's book gives fairly balanced coverage of all the aspects of the game (particuilarly of value are those on the short game and practice), instruction itself is not the book's main strength. Rather, it is in the introductions written for every chapter that shed light on the game's history and evolution over the centuries. This is what is missing from so many books on instruction that would make them so much more interesting. Of course, someone only looking to smash balls probably could care less what Vardon had to say about getting out of a sand bunker, but things are set up for such a person by clearly seperating the history lesson from the "Prevailing Wisdom" associated with each area. One of the more delightful things about the whole deal is that it offers numerous photos and illustrations, on top of side columns that discuss what other methods exist besides the standard one. There are also discussions on instruction issues which even the pros are split on (for example, ball placement: constant or varied). These make it all that much more interesting to read. The main thing that needs improvement for the next edition is the segment on strategy. Golf strategy is a very complex thing when viewed broadly, and a good effort was made to lay down the basics. However, more explanaitions of course design with examples would probably help a great deal. Some strategic clues are scattered throughout the whole book, but a clearer, consise presentation would add that much more to an already great volume.

There are a bazillion golf instruction books, including several that are very similar to this one in format and scope, but as a certified glutton for everything that comes down the pike I can say without reservation that this is one of the better ones. The writing is clear, the illustrations are excellent and the topics are well-organized and fleshed out. Golf Magazine itself has improved greatly over the last decade, and this is a first-class product -- not something that has been quickly pieced together from previously published articles. It's genuinely educational in the sense that it discusses alternative approaches and doesn't simply try to get you to Swing Like Tiger or Swing Like Ernie. It strikes me as very reasonably priced for the depth of the material and the quality of the book itself. If I had to pick a target audience, I'd say it would be ideal for the 80 to 100 shooter. It may be a bit much for a raw beginner and perhaps a bit basic for someone who considers The Golfing Machine to be light reading, but for everyone else it should be a very worthwhile addition to your library.

Wow! What an outstanding instruction book. Every element of the game is presented here, from the one handed putting stroke of Mike Hulbert to the funky swing of Lee Trevino. "Since no two golfers are exactly alike in size, athletic, ability or temperament, what works for player A almost certainly will not work for player B." This book will definitely give you all the "golf theories" out there without over emphasizing any one over the other. What I found special about this book was it's ability to show the "prevailing wisdom" as well as a host of alternative methods and different strokes throughout each chapter. I truly enjoy this book and would recommend it to golf enthusiasts. BUY THIS BOOK!!!