Online golf instruction has exploded. You can send your swing video to a coach on the other side of the world, take live video lessons, follow structured programmes in an app or watch thousands of free tips. Used well, online coaching can be convenient, affordable and effective. Used badly, a flood of conflicting tips can make your game worse. Here's how online lessons work, and how to make them pay off.
Types of online golf instruction
| Type | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Video analysis | Send swing videos; the coach replies with annotated video and drills | Specific swing changes |
| Live video lessons | Real-time lesson by video call, often at a range or home net | Interaction and immediate feedback |
| Structured programmes | Courses or plans in an app or website, with drills and progressions | Self-motivated golfers |
| Subscription coaching | Ongoing coaching with regular video reviews | Long-term improvement |
| Free tips and videos | General advice | Ideas and inspiration, used carefully |
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient: no travel, flexible timing | Coach can't see ball flight in person or feel your movements |
| Access to coaches anywhere | Depends on good video quality |
| Often cheaper | Less hands-on feedback on grip, set-up and feel |
| Easy to review lessons again later | Easy to get overwhelmed by too many tips |
| Useful between in-person lessons | Some golfers need face-to-face motivation |
How to choose an online coach
- Qualifications and experience: look for recognised coaching qualifications and experience with golfers like you.
- Approach: do they explain causes and give clear, simple drills?
- Communication: how quickly do they reply, and in what format?
- Reviews: from golfers who have improved.
- Trial: many offer a single lesson or review first.
Read golf lessons: choosing an instructor.
How to film for online coaching
- Two angles: face-on and down the line.
- Stable camera at hand height, in a consistent position.
- Good light and the whole swing in frame, including the club at the top.
- Real shots, not just practice swings, and show the ball flight if possible.
- Include launch monitor data if you have it. Read launch monitor numbers explained.
- Tell the coach your typical miss, goals, handicap and any injuries.
Read golf swing video analysis.
Getting the most from online lessons
- Pick one coach and commit to their plan.
- Work on one change at a time.
- Practise the drills consistently between reviews. Read our driving range practice plan.
- Send follow-up videos to check progress.
- Be patient: swing changes take weeks.
- Track results: ball flight, statistics and scores. Read golf statistics to track.
Free online tips: use with care
Free videos and tips can be helpful, but:
- A tip that helps one golfer can hurt another with a different fault.
- Conflicting advice leads to confusion.
- Understand why a tip works and whether it addresses your fault.
Read golf myths debunked.
Online plus in-person
The most effective approach for many golfers is a mix:
- An in-person lesson to diagnose, check grip and set-up, and see ball flight.
- Online follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust drills.
- Occasional in-person check-ins to keep on track.
Short game and putting online
Online coaching works well for putting and chipping, as you can film at home. Read golf practice at home and how to putt: the fundamentals.
Frequently asked questions
Do online golf lessons really work?
They can, especially with good video, a qualified coach and consistent practice. Many golfers find a mix of online and in-person lessons best.
How much do online golf lessons cost?
It varies widely, from inexpensive app subscriptions to premium personal coaching. Video reviews are often cheaper than in-person lessons.
What do I need for an online golf lesson?
A smartphone, a tripod or clip, a space to swing, and ideally a range, net or launch monitor.
Are free online golf tips any good?
Some are, but they're general. Make sure a tip addresses your specific fault before trying it.
The bottom line
Online golf lessons offer convenient, flexible and affordable coaching. Choose a qualified coach, film your swing properly, work on one change at a time and practise consistently. Combine online coaching with occasional in-person lessons, and avoid the trap of collecting tips from everywhere. For more on technology, read home golf simulator guide.