Group vs Solo Golf Lessons: Are Group Lessons Effective?

If you want to improve your golf skills, getting lessons is a great idea to learn this difficult game. But should you get 1:1 lessons? Or group lessons?

Today, I’ll share the pros and cons of group vs. solo lessons in golf to identify which one will fit you best. Ultimately, any sort of lesson is generally a solid strategy to help you speed up success and hit your golf goals.

As Jack Nicklaus once said, “Don’t be too proud to take lessons. I’m not.” 

But don’t forget, lessons are only half the battle to becoming a more consistent golfer. You still need to put in the work in practice to play your best golf.

Group vs. Solo Lessons in Golf

Key Takeaways

• Getting lessons is a good way to improve your game faster than learning on your own. 
• You can get 1:1 lessons or group lessons if you have someone else who is at a similar skill level.
• One on one lessons tend to work better for golfers who are more advanced and want customized swing advice. They tend to cost more than group lessons, but usually provide a more immersive experience.
• Group lessons tend to work better for mid to higher handicap golfers who are looking to learn the fundamentals of the game. They tend to cost less as you don’t get as much customized help but still very useful.

Keep reading to learn more about each type of lesson and click here to learn if golf lessons are worth it.

Solo Lessons

The first type of lesson to consider is a solo, private lesson. 

When most people think of lessons, these are typically the most common type. They’re a time when you and an instructor can work 1:1 to help overcome any issues and address certain parts of your swing.

You can also have solo lessons at the short game area if your chipping, pitching, bunker shots, or putting needs some help. Additionally, a lot of golf instructors also do on-course playing lessons to help understand tee box strategy and approach shot strategy. 

Pros

• Get to work 1:1 with an instructor.
• Can build more rapport with your coach. 
• It’s common to get a swing analysis and notes from your lesson. 
• They typically provide a list of drills to help during your practice sessions. 
• Easier to schedule since you don’t have to coordinate with anyone other than your coach. 

Cons 

• More expensive than group lessons.
• Busy schedules. Sometimes you might need to see a coach soon, but they’re booked out weeks in advance.  

Group Lessons

Group lessons are another viable option and a fantastic alternative to solo lessons. 

These lessons tend to have 2–3 people at one time, as anymore is difficult for the instructor to help with specific advice. If there are more than three people, these are generally known as golf camps instead. 

Just like solo sessions, these types of lessons can take place at the driving range, short game area, or on the course. If you choose this option, it’s best to partner up with someone at a similar skill level. This will make your lesson much more effective and enjoyable.

Otherwise, it’s harder for the coach and might not be as good of a use of your time. For example, if you can’t break 100 yet but your friend is in the 80s, the coach will need to provide very different feedback. 

However, if you’re at a similar skill level, it’s a perfect way to learn the game. 

Pros

• Cheaper than solo lessons.
• Less pressure as it’s not 1:1 instruction. 
• A fun way to learn the game with a friend/family member. 

Cons 

• Might not build as much rapport with your instructor.
• Might not get post lesson swing tips/advice/video feedback. 
• Harder to sync up schedules and stay consistent with lessons.

Other Golf Coaching Options

Aside from group lessons and solo lessons, there are a ton of other options, including:

• Golf camps: Some instructors have teaching academies where they can work with several coaches and a group of players. These types of golf camps are a fun way to teach a bigger group the fundamentals of the game. 

• Online swing analysis: A lot of instructors offer lessons online where you submit swing videos to them via an app. This allows them to draw circles, lines, etc. and analyze your swing. Then provide specific feedback and drills to play better. 

• Online academies and courses: Some YouTubers, mental coaches, and golf coaches offer online learning platforms for the full swing, short game, or putting. Watch videos online to learn how to hit specific shots and then test it out at the course. 

• Training aids: If you were able to analyze your swing properly, maybe you know the issue – like an inside takeaway or weak grip. If that’s the case, you can buy a training aid to help so you can become your own coach. 

• Sports psychologist: You can work with a professional to learn more about the mental game and how it impacts your golf.

• Visit a golf hypnotherapist: Learn to reprogram your subconscious mind to play better and overcome any specific issues holding you back. 

FAQs About Golf Lessons 

Do you have more questions about golf lessons? If so, keep reading through the most frequently asked questions and answers now. 

Are golf lessons expensive?

I like to think of them as investments in your future self. Sometimes, they are expensive in the short term, but you might learn something that can change the way you play golf for decades to come. 

Always check with pricing and package rates ahead of time to make sure it’s worth it. Also, always try to get swing video feedback so you can remember the lesson and apply it to your swing in the future. 

How much do golf lessons cost? 

Golf lessons can vary greatly in price – they depend on many factors including length of lesson, one lesson vs. package, solo vs. group, and more. 

Most lessons in the United States are about $60 per hour. Some might be less, but some might be 2-3X (or more) based on the coaches popularity and availability. 

Are private lessons better than group lessons? 

Private lessons are generally a better choice for more skilled golfers. Working 1:1 with a golf coach can help you dial in parts of your swing that need help and hopefully get out of a slump. 

All feedback from a coach is 100% individualized and useful for your swing vs. a group lesson where it’s more generic advice. 

Are golf lessons worth it for beginners?

Yes, especially group lessons as they’re more budget friendly and can help you avoid bad habits early on in your game. A lot of golfers end up seeing someone years (sometimes decades) after starting because of bad habits acquired over time. 

By working with an instructor in the beginning of your golf journey it can help you avoid common mistakes that most golfers make. This might help speed up the learning process that is steep for some players as there is so much to master in this game. 

My Experience

I’ve played this game for 20+ years and had all types of lessons. 

From junior golf camps, to group lessons, online lessons, short game lessons, and in-person lessons (with a PGA Coach).  Not to mention mental golf coaches too. 

Needless to say, I’m all for learning more about the game so you can make a better swing and understand how to hit different shots. 

However, don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need lessons each week, month or quarter to improve. Instead, take a lesson, apply what you learned for a few weeks in practice, then test it on the golf course. If things are still going poorly, then you can reach out and schedule another lesson.

Don’t forget, you still have to put in the work. 

Think about it like this, a personal trainer can help you for one hour a day at the gym, but the other 23 hours that are up to you. What you eat and exercise during that time is a lot more important than the one hour with your trainer.

The same goes for golf, you need to put in the reps in practice to make swing changes. Don’t expect one lesson to build a consistent swing. 

Final Thoughts  

Golf lessons are an amazing idea for all types of golfer – from beginners to pros. 

Don’t forget, nearly all the best professionals in the world have a dedicated swing coach. Not to mention, a lot of them have mental coaches, trainers, and other people in their camp.

The point? Don’t be afraid to get help in any area of your game. 

Track your statistics so you can easily identify the weaknesses of your game and hopefully convert them into strengths. 

Ready to get your junior golf into the game? Read our article – golf lessons for kids next.