Sharpen your skills and improve your handicap

With a global following running into the millions, it's clear that golf is without doubt one of the biggest and most popular sports in the world. Perhaps the best thing about the game is that it's so easy to enjoy, whatever your individual level of ability - so whether you fancy yourself as the next Rory McIlroy or you just want to lark about with your friends or work colleagues, you're sure to get something out of the game. However, even if you are no more than an enthusiastic amateur, that's not to say you can't find ways of sharpening your skills here and there. In fact, if you want to surprise your golfing buddies next time you play them, a bit of practice could come in very handy.

Perhaps the key to improving your game is to work on your swing. Even the top names in golf - including the likes of Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods - have been known to frequently adjust and adapt their swing in their efforts to continually improve their game, and if it's good enough for them, there must be something to be said for it. Indeed, many golfers spend years working on their swing technique and some never quite feel they've got it right. As with other aspects of golf, it's essential to get the balance right. Prioritising power over technique may prove unsuccessful, as a bit of subtlety is usually required to place the ball in the right sort of area.

While practicing by yourself may help in some respects, it's also much easier to get into bad habits if there's nobody around to put you right where you're going wrong. This is why it could well be worth your while recruiting the services of a professional coach. Many golf courses have in-house PGA professionals on hand to help golfers looking to adjust and enhance their game. These experts can provide valuable tips and assistance, sharing their specialist knowledge and experience with you. A few sessions with a professional coach could be just the ticket when it comes to improving your game.

Times are tough for many of us at the moment, and you may be wondering whether devoting so much time and money to golf is a luxury you can afford. It's often said that golf is a relatively expensive pursuit, particularly when you take the cost of equipment into consideration. However, there are a number of ways to cut back on the cost of the game and, for example, you can save money by using vouchers giving you a discount on green fees.