How to Kick Off Golf Season the Right Way

How to Kick Off Golf Season the Right Way

March 2, 2026

The golf season start is one of the best times of the year. The days are getting longer, the fairways are turning green again, and every golfer is itching to get back out there. Whether you’re in a climate where spring marks your first tee time in months or you’ve simply been sidelined by winter weather, the season opener sets the tone for the months ahead.

If you want to make the most of your first rounds back, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to kick off golf season the right way — from sharpening your game to locking in the best tee times.

1. Start with a Smart Warm-Up

After time away from the game, your body needs time to readjust. Jumping straight into 18 holes without preparation is a recipe for frustration or worse, injury.

A few spring golf tips to get your body and swing ready:

Stretch daily for a week or two before your first round, focusing on shoulders, hips, and hamstrings.

Make a few trips to the driving range to rebuild tempo and contact.

Start with shorter swings and wedges before working your way up to the driver.

Spend extra time on putting — feel and speed control are usually the first things to go during a long layoff.

2. Check Your Equipment

The start of golf season is the perfect time for a gear check.

Clean your clubs and grooves.

Replace worn grips.

Inspect spikes or invest in a new pair of golf shoes.

Refill your bag with fresh golf balls and tees.

If you’ve been considering a club fitting or upgrading equipment, early spring is ideal. Dialing in your setup now means you’ll enjoy the benefits all season long.

3. Understand Early-Season Course Conditions

One of the most overlooked parts of the golf season start is adjusting expectations for course conditions.

Early in the season, courses may feature:

Softer fairways

Slower greens

Wet or muddy areas

Overseeded or dormant patches depending on region

Checking course updates ahead of time can help you plan better. Many facilities provide seasonal information so you know what to expect before you arrive.

4. Book Tee Times Early — The Season Fills Up Fast

Nothing signals the return of golf like packed tee sheets. As soon as the weather turns, demand spikes — especially on weekends.

One of the smartest moves you can make is booking tee times in advance. Early planning ensures you:

Get your preferred time of day

Lock in competitive rates

Avoid scrambling for last-minute availability

Coordinate easily with your foursome

Spring weekends and holiday tee times go quickly. The earlier you secure your spot, the less stress you’ll have and the more time you can focus on your game. See available tee times in your area on www.golfnow.com.

5. Refresh Your Golf Goals

The beginning of the season is the perfect reset button.

Ask yourself:

Do you want to lower your handicap?

Play more rounds?

Try new courses?

Take a lesson?

Play a bucket-list destination?

Setting clear goals at the start of golf season keeps you motivated beyond that first round back.

If playing more courses is on your list, spring is a great time to explore new layouts before peak summer demand hits.

6. Make It a Tradition

The first round of the year should feel special. Whether it’s a long-standing tradition with friends or a solo sunrise tee time, mark the moment.

Some ideas:

Play your favorite local course every season opener.

Start a friendly annual competition.

Plan a spring golf trip.

Book a tee time somewhere new to celebrate the return of golf season.

Making it intentional turns the season opener into something you look forward to year after year.

8. Keep the Momentum Going

The biggest mistake golfers make at the start of the season? Playing one or two rounds and then letting weeks slip by.

Consistency is everything. Once you’re back into the rhythm, keep it going by:

Scheduling your next round before you finish the first.

Booking out a few weekends in advance.

Watching for special offers and tee time deals.

Mixing in early-morning and twilight rounds as daylight increases.

Planning ahead ensures the excitement of the season opener carries into a full, memorable golf season.

Ready to Start Your Season?

The golf season start only happens once each year — make it count. Prepare your body, refresh your equipment, adjust to early-season conditions, and most importantly, plan ahead.

Kick off golf season the right way — and lock in your next round today at www.golfnow.com.

Your best golf of the year starts with the first tee time.