Test your skills and save money while youre at it

As one of the world's most popular spectator sports, golf has a dedicated global following running into the millions and its major tournaments - including the Masters, the Open and the USPGA Championship - attract massive worldwide TV audiences and are considered some of the biggest events in the sporting calendar. But there's far more to golf than just watching it, and it's also one of the biggest participation sports around. Thousands of people all over the UK take to golf courses every weekend, whether they're looking to improve their handicap or just give their boss a long-awaited and well-earned beating on the greens.

However, one of the most challenging aspects of golf - aside from driving or putting, of course - is the cost associated with it. Getting the right equipment together can take any dedicated golfer years, and it tends to cost a pretty penny. And it goes without saying that times are tough for many people at the moment, forcing some of us to reconsider our priorities - which means cutting back our spending on leisure activities. However, there are ways to save money and keep on playing the game you love. Golf might be relatively expensive to take up, but that doesn't mean you should expect to have to pay top dollar for everything.

For example, instead of forking out for brand new golf clubs, trolleys and so forth, you can either rent equipment or simply buy it second hand. Provided it's been well looked after, pre-owned golf gear should still be able to provide you with at least a few years of enjoyment. Admittedly, it might not be top of the range, but unless you fancy yourself as a frustrated Tiger Woods - that is, if you're an amateur golfer who plays purely for fun - it can save you a significant amount of money and prove to be a worthwhile investment.

More and more golfers are saving money on green fees by using vouchers to help them gain free or discounted entry on to the golf course. In addition, those who see golf as a social event can also use two-for-one vouchers, thereby enabling themselves or their golfing buddy to get on to the fairways without having to cough up for green fees. It's clear that many of us are feeling the squeeze at the moment, which is why it's well worth your while looking to save money wherever possible. Green fee vouchers are a great way of cutting corners and helping to bring down the overall cost of playing golf.