I think there is something missing in this discussion. I keep seeing references to LPGA efficiency, but don’t think anyone has taken into account they have been properly fitted for their equipment.
I consider myself a recreational golfer who loves the game and may get blasted for the comments I am about to make, but will make them anyway...
What is my handicap? Not really sure, I’m guessing there is a high percentage of good and bad players who don’t have an established handicap. I have played on and off my entire life and just really got back into playing 3-4 years ago, and I did the smartest thing ever this summer and took a lesson. I was tired of being able to hit my driver 265 yards down the middle and not be able to score, any time I had to hit an iron over 120 yards I was lost and unpredictable. After a bad round, I finally talked to the staff at the pro shop and got the number of the pro who gives lessons, best decision made and best money I have ever spent. I look back and say why not a lesson earlier, I knew the answers cause I had told them to myself for years thoughts such as these always came to mind; too expensive, no way I can afford to pay hundreds of dollars a week for several weeks... too embarrassing, lessons are given by pros and a pro will think I’m terrible and just laugh at me... won’t work, I’ve been swinging a golf club for years and not gotten any better, I’m probably just not talented enough to be a good golfer.
Boy was I wrong with all those thoughts, lesson was cheap less than the cost of a round of golf. Only one lesson was needed and I have became good friends with the pro who gave me the lesson. I also have been playing much better and the game is more enjoyable. So I agree a lesson is important, But I also think that having the right shaft for my swing speed and spin rate are essential to get the yards needed on the course.
Keeping all my comments in mind I think the original post on this thread is a chicken and the egg problem. What do you need to learn first ? To swing a club that fits your swing speed at a fast enough speed for distance while hitting the center of the club face consistently.