Golf is said to be the game of kings, but if you’re on a broke budget, finding ways to get your lovely walk spoiled with a round of golf can be harder than marrying into the monarchy.  Here are some ways you can practice your stroke that won’t leave you broke.

Community Courses – Many towns have community courses that are much more inexpensive than the local club and don’t require monthly membership.  Even my hometown of Redlands has a community course!  They might have a limited number of holes or not be the best course, but it’ll get you swinging that 9 iron again!

Driving Ranges – If all you need to do is keep in shape so as not to embarrass yourself for the yearly company golf tourmaent, hit your local driving range.  You can frequently find a place where you can hit a whole bucket of balls for $5-$10.  Plus- no walking!

Be Schmoozed – Many companies and charity organizations want your business and your money.  Play hard-to-get and you could easily find yourself sitting in a two-person golf cart with them picking up the green fees.  Be nice though, don’t hang them out to dry if they’ve picked up the tab, listen to their pitch.

Join a Club – Ok, so country clubs were once the prerogatives of WASPS around the would, but now they’re social organizations that many people can afford to belong to.  Get the kids some pool time, your wife some tennis lessons and yourself a discounted green fee.  Check around to see which nearby town’s club will be in your budget.

Expense it – If you’re good enough not to embarrass yourself, take clients golfing or get yourself sponsored in a charity tournament for a chance to write off your green fee.  Take these opportunities to golf such great places as Pebble Beach and PGA course close to home.

Take a class – Many pro courses and community colleges offer reasonably priced group classes that include course time during class and discounts during non-class time as part of their cost.  Remember, the larger the class, the cheaper the fee will be. Bonus- your stroke will improve as well!

So don’t let the pinch in your pocketbook interrupt your smooth follow-through with your swing.  Tee up!

* Thanks to  Shayan (USA) for the great photo!