Golf is a favorite sport for many people, but the complexity can be a little intimidating for new players. You have to master each swing and learn a long set of rules governing everything from where you can play to what counts as a swing. Fortunately, if you’re a beginner playing for fun, you only need to know a few rules to get through a game with your friends.

What Rules You Need to Know to Play Golf

1. Where to Tee Up

The teeing ground usually features two markers and may be outlined by a red line. You can tee off from anywhere between the markers and behind the line. You can also tee off away from the line, but no more than twice the distance of your driver.

2. Playing Where It Lies

One of the basic challenges of golf is playing your ball where it lies, which means you can’t move leaves or rocks out of the way for a better swing. You’re also not allowed to flatten out the ground or break off branches that might be in the way.

3. Practice Swings

A swing only counts if you’re trying to make contact with the ball. You can take as many practice swings as you want without a stroke penalty.

4. Moving Obstructions While Putting

The rules are different if you’re putting on the green. If any part of the ball is on the green, you may brush away leaves, grass, and gravel. However, you’re not allowed to flatten the grass before taking your shot.

Tucked away in the beautiful, rolling hills of Pennsylvania’s Tioga County, Corey Creek Golf Club has welcomed golfers from around the country since 1927. Their 71-par course is open to the public, making it the perfect spot to organize a game with your friends. Visit their website for more details on their course or call (570) 662-3520 to book a tee time today.