Golf is undoubtedly one of the world's most rewarding and frustrating sports. The serenity and beauty of a golf course on a sunny day belies the tension that can creep into a round when we're not hitting our best. While the concentration that the game requires is often the perfect antidote to the stress of work and life responsibilities, there are times when the safe haven of 18 holes feels more like seven levels of the netherworld. Unfortunately, most of us don't have access to a personal golf coach or trainer, and we're forced to work out the kinks in our game on our own. Thankfully, though, there are golf clubs and training aids that can help get us back into the swing. Here are some of the most popular:



Full Swing Trainers - There are several types of full swing trainers, but among the most popular is a hinged driver that gives you immediate feedback and helps you overcome slices and hooks. Another popular system involves a swing hoop and weighted club that creates the perfect golf swing. The idea is that you can adjust your swing until you gain control and can hit consistently. In the process, you strengthen the muscles specifically used in golf and build muscle memory, so that you'll more instinctively hit the ball straight when you're out on the course.

Stance Trainers - Stance trainers focus on both sets of extremities: the legs and the arms. Many golfers underestimate the importance of the right stance in powerful, consistent hitting. Trainers that focus on the legs and feet generally work by restricting lateral movement and keeping the feet from spinning out. One popular stance trainer for the arms focuses on keeping the trailing arm from closing more than 90 degrees, while another connects the arm to the body in order to help the arm fold correctly. Both assist by keeping your golf clubs in position to achieve the proper downswing. There are also trainers that help position the wrist and hand for delayed hits, greater accuracy, and more consistency.

Putting Aids - There are a variety of training aids available to help you increase your putting accuracy. In addition to the mats that are meant to mimic greens, there are putting braces, lasers that mount to the putter's shaft, and trainers that have guidance rails to ensure that your stroke is smooth and straight. Some of the most intriguing new digital devices that read greens so that you'll know how they break and can adjust your stroke accordingly.

And Even More - In addition to the types of training aids mentioned, there is a vast array of products available that can help you with tempo, alignment, balance, weight transfer, swing analysis, and release.

Although training aids can be tremendously helpful in working out the kinks in your game, the importance of good equipment can't be underestimated. A good set of golf clubs will help you play your best, but if you can't afford a new set, you can always opt for brand name pre-owned golf clubs. Used golf clubs often come with a certification and warranty, so you can be assured of their quality. The right golf shoes can make a significant difference in your positioning and consistency, and the comfort of the right golf apparel and golf accessories allow you to keep your mind on the game.

In the end, the right golf clubs and training aids accomplish the same goal: taking the frustration out of the game and putting the enjoyment back in.