golfheaven

Without engaging in any preliminary warm-ups of stretching, I hit about a hundred balls on the range 2 months ago. Everything went well or so I thought until 2 days later when at 4 AM I started getting chest pain and I thought I was getting a heart attack. It was diagnosed as Costochoindritis. Apparently a nerve gets stuck in between the ribs and produces an intense pain similar to a heart attack. Whatever you do, PLEASE never self-diagnose. Rush yourself to the emergency room to rule out any cardio condition (EKG, stress tests). In my case the costochoindroitis was self-limiting, lasting 20 hours. It was no fun and quite frightening.

I've read in many places about the effects of the weight of the shaft on the swing, i.e. graphite vs. steel; however, I have not seen any information isolated on the effects of the weight of the club-head on the swing. In a few places some golfers expressed their satisfaction with the Nike Slingshot 40, for example, and its forgiving characteristics while others have lamented its heavy weight. Manufacturers seem to give out a lot of information on their clubs, but I have not seen weight info on just the head itself. Curious to learn if anyone feels that there is a definite advantage with a heavy or light club head in terms of swing, distance and workability. And would anyone know which iron set head might be the lightest? Thank you.

When you get older, compromise becomes a byword. I understand the feedback is very important when hitting the ball. I understand exercise and stretching are immensely important. I understand address and proper swing are key. Hey, but sometimes an accommodation is necessitated. We don't live in a perfect world. If I were twenty or thirty or forty again. . . .

Thank you all for your advice. I just ordered the Bionic Silver glove (illegal for tournament play--but just right for recreational play) and will get a few of my clubs re-gripped with Lamkin stingfree. Point well taken on steel to graphite. QUESTION: Would it be advisable to re-shaft wedges to graphite? I've not seen them ever available in graphite probably for a good reason. Thanks again.

You're absolutely correct--no offense taken. At the same time arthritis may not be an issue with you, but there are times when it creeps up and you wish you had something that would lessen any impact.

If I were swinging correctly, I probably wouldn't be posting this or requiring protection for my hand. But was wondering if anyone would care to suggest a grip and/or glove especially suited for absorbing the shock in a swing. Lamkin manufactures "StingFree Crossline Tour" just for this purpose. Has anyone tried it or would suggest another? Any gloves that absorb better than others? Thanks.

Read an article recently about a young man in his 20's who took the afternoon off to play golf on a course where his father was the marshal. In the distance his father proudly looked on as the son teed off. The ball would ricochet and hit his father in the back of the head. He seemed fine until a few hours later when he died of a brain hemorrhage. The story was incorporated into a tv show on sports.

Some fakes look so good they fool experts. I've read articles about this. It happens in almost every field where there is a buck to be made. I bet you there are many good folks out there enjoying their "great deal" clubs not knowing it's bogus. Fake Louis Vuitton bags on Canal Street, phony name brand audiophile headphones on the web, faux Faberge on Madison Ave.......the list is unfortunately endless and most victims are faceless. Hopefully the percentage of scams is low, but call me cautious or call me cynical, there is something to be said about supporting your local pro shop where the merchandise is the real McCoy.

Thanks for all of your replies and suggestions. Rather than buying a used set I thought I'd splurge for a new set of clubs. Curious to know if pro shops are amenable to negotiating especially in this recessionary economic period. Anyone with any recent experience?

I've been away from this great sport for too many years (16) and have returned to learn of a whole new designation of clubs called hybrids. Looking at my "antiques" I am inclined to go out and buy a whole new set. Having perused many threads and learning from other people's experiences, I would naturally like to save money while at the same time not get taken with buying counterfeits. I am familiar with MSRP and MAP and realize that most dealers can not advertise below a certain designated price without jeopardizing their business relationships with the manufacturers. I've googled the net to check out prices. Before I jump in, would anyone care to name a reputable discounter? Thank you!

My vote is for the iPod Touch. As noted it is almost everything the iPhone is except for phone capability, photo-taking, and limited to internet connection via Wi-Fi. I must say it is really a cool gadget. If you do get it, you must consider these following apps: PANDORA - Offers you free internet music similar in style to what you demand. SHAZAM or MIDOMI - Determines the name of the song you don't know (but you'll need to get microphone capability). iFITNESS - Helps you get into shape with different exercises. GL GOLF - (or GL Golf Deluxe) The best golf game being offered. Get a clear film to cover your pricey gadget to avoid inevitable scratches. Check youtube for instruction on how to apply. It'll be most helpful. A silicone back cover (ie inCase) will serve you well. GOOD LUCK!

New York City Real Estate or whatever is left of it. Who knows--I may need to re-invent myself and take this hobby to a professional level. A very good old friend from my college days has invited me to play golf which I haven't done in 16 years. So rather than make an utter fool of myself I thought I would familiarize myself with the equipment and take a class and read a lot of other people's experiences on this site. Who knew a whole new class--called Hybrids--was invented? Luckily the island of Manhattan has a driving range and a golf school at Chelsea Piers (facing the Hudson River). Anyone want to buy the Brooklyn Bridge?

I now really feel old---I'm in the minority here, being 55 (but look 40).

Hello Reid, When you are as young as you are, the importance of a pair of golf shoes can readily be dismissed--that is until you slip. Slipping may cause muscular pain or even damage to ligaments. Even when the weather is perfect, a solid anchor to the ground will allow the efficient transfer of energy into your swing. Don't go crazy. You don't need an expensive pair. Just comfortable. Good luck.