Your first adaptive golf lesson is a chance to explore what works for you—not a test of your current golf skills. A little preparation can help you feel comfortable and give your instructor useful information from the start. Think about what you want to learn, what support helps you move or communicate, and what equipment you already have. You do not need to arrive with everything figured out; your instructor can help adjust the plan as you go.
Choose Comfortable Clothes and Shoes
Wear clothes that let you move comfortably through a swing, sit or stand as needed, and manage the weather. Choose secure, flat shoes with good traction. Golf shoes are not required for a first lesson. If you use a brace, prosthesis, orthotic, or other mobility aid, bring what you normally use unless your care team has advised otherwise.
Bring water, sunscreen, and any personal items that help you stay comfortable. A hat or sunglasses can make an outdoor session easier. If you use a wheelchair, walker, or other mobility device, bring it as you would for a typical outing. Let the instructor know if a particular surface, distance, or transfer requires planning.
Bring Equipment You Already Use
If you own clubs, bring them along; there is no need to buy new equipment before your first lesson. Your instructor can look at the clubs you have and discuss whether adjustments or adaptive equipment might help. If you do not have clubs, ask ahead of time what the lesson site can provide.
Consider bringing items that make practice work better for you, such as a grip aid, a stool, a club support, or communication device. These are useful starting points, not requirements. If you are unsure whether something is appropriate, ask the instructor before the lesson so you can plan together.
Share What Helps You Learn
Before the lesson, explain any access needs that could affect the location, setup, pace, or way you practice. You can share how you prefer to move around, whether you need rest breaks, and what kind of assistance is helpful. Mention relevant vision, hearing, balance, strength, coordination, or sensory considerations in the amount of detail you choose.
Tell the instructor how you prefer to receive directions and feedback. You might learn best from a spoken explanation, a demonstration, written steps, or time to try a movement before discussing it. Also share your golf experience, what you hope to do, and anything you would like the instructor to avoid. You do not need to provide a diagnosis to ask for an accommodation.
Expect to Adjust as You Go
A first lesson often starts with a conversation about your goals and comfort, followed by a look at your stance, grip, movement, or equipment. The instructor may offer a simple activity to see what feels natural. You can pause, ask questions, or request a different explanation at any point.
Progress does not have to mean hitting a full shot right away. The lesson might focus on balance, making contact with the ball, putting, or finding a comfortable way to hold a club. Let the instructor know if something feels painful, tiring, confusing, or unsafe. Together, you can change the activity, take a break, or try another approach.
For your first adaptive golf lesson, bring what you normally use, share the support that helps, and arrive with one or two goals in mind. The instructor can work with you to shape a session around your comfort and interests. Contact Long Beach Adaptive Golf to discuss access needs and plan your first lesson.