Football The game that makes millions of hearts throb as their favorite team kick and tackle their way to make maximum goals and reach the top of the table. It is a 90-minute crazy ride of adrenaline rush and emotions. But how and where did it all this madness began?
The history of football dates back to more than 100 years. It all began in England back in 1863. The rugby football and association football had parted their ways to different courses. Thus, the first sport’s governing body was formed.
A stroll down the century reveals that there were hordes of games varying with different techniques of football were played in different parts of the world.
There were parts of the world that played football employing only legs and feet, often without any laws or protection. Other parts of the world played using both hands and legs (referred to as rugby football).
The scientific evidence suggests that this sport was a exercise regime from a military manual dating back to the second and third centuries BC in China.
The similar game was played in Japan as Japanese Kemari. It began some 500600 years back, and is still played today. It’s a sport that lacks the competitive element, with no struggle for possession of the ball. It’s a game in which players stood in small circles with small gaps between them. All they have to do is pass the ball to each other with their feet, trying not to let the ball touch the ground.
The Han Dynasty’s version of football called Tsu’ Chu consisted of kicking a leather ball filled with feathers and hair which had an opening. The ball measured 3040cm in width into small nets (on each side) made of long bamboo canes. This game had did not permit the player to hit the target unimpeded. It allowed the use of chest, back, and shoulders while trying to tackle the attacks from opponents. This was the game closest to football that is played currently. Use of hands were not permitted.
The American football can be traced back to 1892. The purpose of American football carrying the ball in the hands to the opposition’s end and ultimately into their end zone, which is referred to as touchdown. It is achieved by either team running with the ball until tackled or throwing the ball down the filed to a team mate.
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.