Hello golfers, it’s Brendon Elliott here—your trusted PGA professional with three decades on the fairways and greens. I’m here to clear the air about some common misconceptions that have taken root in our beloved game. You know how it goes: if you hear something often enough, you might start to believe it. But just because a saying is popular doesn’t mean it holds water.
Today, I’m calling out three of the biggest myths in golf that might be holding back your game.
## Myth 1: “Keep Your Head Down”
If I got a dollar every time someone told another golfer to “keep your head down,” I’d have a permanent tee time at Pebble Beach. Trust me, it’s not like that.
What you should focus on is keeping your head steady without freezing it in place. A bit of movement isn’t just okay—it’s crucial. As you take the club back, your head should have the leeway to move slightly as you coil to your trail side (the right side if you’re right-handed). Locking your head can really mess with your ability to make a strong, effective turn.
When you’re swinging down, your head will naturally gravitate back over the ball as you shift to your lead side. Just look at golf legends like David Duval and Annika Sörenstam—they allowed their heads to move and had incredible swings.
So next time someone gives you that old “keep your head down” advice, just nod and mentally shelve it. Myth debunked.
## Myth 2: Golf Is an Elitist, Crazy Expensive Sport
“I can’t afford golf; it’s only for the super-rich.” I hear this all the time, but let me set the record straight.
Sure, golf can be pricey, just like any passion. But here’s the truth:
The average cost of an 18-hole round in the U.S. is about $45. There are no membership dues needed for that.
Around 80% of the golf courses in the U.S. are public, not exclusive country clubs.
Granted, a few high-end clubs are sprinkled around, where you might want to dress to impress. But for every one of those posh spots, there are many public courses where you can play without emptying your wallet.
If you’ve been steering clear of golf because you think it’s bank-breaking, it’s time to step into the clubhouse. Myth dismissed.
## Myth 3: The PGA Tour and the PGA of America Are the Same Thing
This mix-up always gets to me. People see “PGA” and assume it’s one giant entity. Nope. Let’s break it down.
The PGA of America, which I’m a proud member of, is made up of golf pros who run courses, coach players, and promote the sport at the grassroots level. We’re the hands-on folks who grow the game.
The PGA Tour, on the other hand, is a separate organization focused on professional tournaments. Once upon a time, these two were one, but those days are long gone.
In recent chatter about LIV Golf, PIF, and the PGA Tour, I’ve seen confusion with folks blaming “the PGA” as if it’s all one big decision-making pot—it’s not. The PGA Tour charts its own course, while the PGA of America concentrates on the everyday golfer.
Now you’re in on the secret. Myth dismantled.
These old misconceptions have cluttered our fairways for too long. It’s time to shake off outdated advice and embrace the truth.
### Key Takeaways
Let your head move naturally.
Don’t assume golf is out of reach.
Understand the difference between the PGA Tour and the PGA of America.
Play smarter, enjoy the game more, and the next time someone insists on these myths? Point them in my direction.
Keep swinging, and happy golfing!
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