Like the European football, American football has two 11 member teams, and that’s what is only similar between both the games. The gameplay technique parts its way from the European football. A team that has the possession of the football is called as offense. This team tries to take the ball down the field by running with the ball or throwing it. A goal is considered scored when the player crosses the line of the goal and gets into the area called end zone.
The opposite team (which also has 11 players) is called the defense. Being the defending team, it tries to stop the opponent team from scoring a goal by trying to make it give up the possession of the ball. If the opponent team (that is running with the ball) gives up the possession and the defending team scores, then in the next round offensive and defensive teams switch roles. This happens back and forth, until four quarters of the game have been played.
Game time
The game is divided into four quarters, with each quarter being 15 minutes long. The half-time (which is end of 2 quarters) is separated by a 12-minute break. There are also 2 minute breaks at the end of first and third quarters. The second half starts with a kickoff in the same way the game had begun in the first quarter. At the end of first and third quarter, the team with the ball retains possession and advances into the following quarter.
The clock stops when the player goes out of bounds, and when a penalty is called. The clock starts again when the ball is re-spotted by the official.
The team gets penalized if they are unable to snap off the ball for the start of the next play. Each team when playing offensive has 40 seconds for doing so.
If the game is tied at the end of the fourth quarter, a 15-minute over-time period is played, this is called as sudden death. Sudden death is where the first team to score wins. The possession of the ball is determined by a coin toss
Field size
The field spans to 100 yards in length and 53 yards in width. There are little white markings on the field, they are called as yard markers that help the players and officials and spectators alike to keep the track of the ball. The important part of the field is called as the end zone. It is an additional 10 yards (at each ends of the field). When the team with the possession of the ball enters this end zone and does a touchdown, they score points.
It is extremely tough to master the nuances of a complex sport like golf. Beginners, in particular, can find it to be exhausting and confusing because of the multiple rules and equipment involved. While one has to work hard on their skills, with the right clubs, golfing can turn into the most rewarding experience.
The following are some common types of golf clubs newbies should know of.
Woods
These types of golf clubs were initially made of wood; however, they are now created with materials like steel or titanium. Woods are useful for propelling the golf ball to the farthest distances. The heads of such clubs are large and rounded, whereas their base is flat, which allows the player to effortlessly swing the club over the ground. Driver and fairways are the two most popular kinds of woods used.
Irons
The irons are used once the player is closer to the green, i.e., when one is within 200 yards of the hole. The iron golf set covers clubs numbered from 3 to 9 and a pitching wedge. The lower numbered irons can be a little tricky to use. Therefore, several beginners adjust their golf set by picking a few wood clubs so that they could comfortably strike the ball and at the same time cover big distances.
Wedges
The pitching wedge is incorporated in the standard iron set; however, one will need to purchase other types of wedges too. These golf clubs have a high loft with a short shaft and come in handy for hitting the ball over the tree or removing the golf ball from the sand. The sand, gap, and lob are some popular sorts of wedges that can be bought separately. However, the beginners, usually only need the pitching edge. They can buy the additional variety as their level of play advances.
Putters
Every golfer needs putter in their set as it serves an essential purpose, i.e., pushing the ball in the hole when the player is on the green. The putter clubs are available in 3 different styles, including heel-toe, mallet, and traditional blade. Mallets are the recommended option for most beginners. Generally, standard putters are 32 to 36 inches long; however, one can get them customized based on their comfort.
Hybrids
Also called as utility clubs, hybrids are a comparatively a newer addition in professional and recreational golf. The hybrids combine the shaft of the irons and the head of the fairway wood. They are designed to replace the lower numbered irons that are difficult to play with. These clubs cover the same distances as irons but are easier to swing, making them ideal for beginners.
A seasoned player or rookie, it is important to know that the key to a good golf game is using the right club. At times, choosing a golf club can turn into a daunting task because of the extensive range of golf clubs that are available in the market. Several players, especially, beginners make the blunder of buying clubs that don’t agree with their swing mechanics or level of play. Therefore, before making a purchase, here are some essential factors one should scrutinize.
Golf club length
It is imperative for a player to get a golf club of the right length. Standard golf clubs are designed for men and women with an approximate height of 5 foot 10 inches. If players are taller or shorter than the stated height, then they will need to get their golf clubs customized. Likewise, physical strength also needs to be taken into consideration. So, individuals with short stature can opt for lighter golf clubs so that it doesn’t interfere with their swing power.
Grips
The grips are crucial for maintaining the player’s control over the golf club. Going for the wrong grips can impede one’s golf game. There are four types of grips to choose from, i.e., the standard grip, the under-sized grip, the mid-sized grip, and the over-sized grip. Moreover, they come in a variety of textures like smooth, coarse, and abrasive. To pick the best grips, one should consult a professional golf fitter.
Shaft material
The shaft of the golf club makes up for the majority of its weight. Typically, these shafts are created using graphite or steel. Graphite shafts are comparatively more expensive. However, they are lighter and render better distance with every swing. Moreover, their lightness makes it simpler for the player to swing. This feature could benefit people who significantly lack arm strength. Alternatively, steel is heavier and cheaper but makes a great option for individuals who have a good arm strength and need the additional weight to restrain their swings.
Accessories
While buying a golf club, one should ensure to buy some essential accessories like a golf bag, gloves, and shoes. Although it is optional to use gloves and golf shoes, these accessories can come in handy. The gloves can improve the grip on the golf club, and the shoes can prevent the player from slipping and falling on the course.