Golftec Review

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If you want to improve your golf game, you might consider Golftec and wonder if it’s worth it. I’ve taken years of lessons with them and gone from shooting in the 100s to shooting in the 80s. In this Golftec review, I’ll cover the pros and cons of using their coaches to start your game improvement journey.

Golftec golf lesson hitting bay
A hitting bay at Golftec. Showing the net, launch monitor, simulator screen, and replay screen.

How Does a Golftec Lesson Work?

The primary benefit of taking lessons at Golftec is that they’ve created an excellent environment for practice, reducing distractions and utilizing technology. When you take a lesson at Golftec, you’ll come into a local center, head into a private hitting bay with your coach, and hit shots on a launch monitor.

Each hitting bay has a simulated golf driving range to see how each shot flies. They also have front and rear-facing cameras to capture your shot in slow motion and track key metrics for how your body turns during the swing.

Using this technology, your coach can determine the weak spots in your swing, and you can get immediate visual feedback as you work to improve.

My Experience at Golftec

The Pros: How I dropped 10 strokes off my game

I started at Golftec after taking some lessons with teachers at public courses in my area. I had a slice and a typical score in the upper 90s to low 100s. Those lessons had been helpful, but the learning was slow, and I hoped the technology at Golftec might be helpful.

In my swing evaluation, my coach was able to point out several things we’d change about my swing and compare it to several pros so I could visualize the difference.

As I progressed through lessons, I found that using the slow-motion video capture helped me make swing changes much quicker than trying to make changes by feeling alone. The package I purchased included some practice time in the bay which was immensely helpful.

Using this technology provides immediate feedback and, when combined with a good coach to know where to point your focus, I think most high-handicap players should be able to make quick improvements.

They also provide a summary of what you’re working on, recordings of your swings, and links to supporting video lessons in their app that you can review anytime after each lesson.

This helped me stay motivated and improve my score from the 100s to the low 90s over a couple of years of work.

Golftec golf lesson video replay controller
Golftec video controller allows you to replay your golf swing at full speed or slow motion.

The Cons

In my initial couple of years at Golftec, there weren’t many negatives aside from being a bit spendy. However, I’d trade the cost for the extra enjoyment I’ve gotten from playing golf.

People may prefer to hit outdoors, not match well with their coach, or have bad experiences with turnover in coaches – but these are small issues if the lessons are working.

Once my scores got lower is when I decided to leave Golftec. I got to the point where improving my game further required some swing changes that my coaches at Golftec weren’t able to diagnose. Technology and a good coach can take you pretty far toward being a good golfer, but getting closer to being a scratch golfer requires an excellent coach.

This probably comes down to the best coaches working independently or at a course, as they can make more money per hour. Overall, until hitting that wall, my experience was excellent, and I highly recommend giving it a shot.

Getting Started with Golftec Lessons

Here’s a quick guide and some recommendations if you’re interested in taking lessons at Golftec.

Choosing a Coach

Start out by looking up your local Golftec. You can see who they list as coaches, and then you can google them for additional information. If you think one might be a better fit, you can request them when signing up. Otherwise, you can take an evaluation with any coach and they should be able to help you get started.

Swing Evaluation

I recommend buying a sixty-minute swing evaluation before signing up for any lesson packages. For around $100 – $125, this lets you meet with a coach, try out the Golftec center, get feedback on your swing, and get a plan for what you’ll work on if you purchase lessons.

Use this time to decide if you like the format of Golftec lessons and if you feel like the coach is a good match for you.

At the end of the evaluation, they’ll offer a lesson package to you. It’s totally fine to tell them you’d like to think about it and call in to make the purchase, or you might be impressed enough that you want to buy it on the spot.

Golftec app screenshots
Golftec app where you can book lessons and practice sessions, review past lessons, and view drills.

Golftec Lessons Pricing

Golftec pricing varies by region and what type of package you’re buying. Currently, in my area, lessons range from around $75 – $98. You can also find sales, typically in March and August.

This is on the higher side of golf lesson prices (but not unreasonable) because you’re paying for the technology, indoor space, and other overhead costs. Also, check out this article if you want general advice about taking golf lessons and prices.

Golftec sells lessons in packs of five up to fifty-two thirty-minute lessons or as part of a “game plan” package which includes lesson credits, video practice sessions, and a club fitting.

The video practice part of the package is a monthly membership (for 3-12 months) to book a bay online and practice between lessons. It’s a very useful offering if you don’t have access to your own golf simulator.

Other Golftec Services

Club Fitting

Golftec also offers golf club fitting. I recommend being fitted for golf clubs if you’re buying new clubs. The fee is waived as part of a package; otherwise, this costs around $95. Getting this done at Golftec is great if you have a coach you like working with. Otherwise, you might have a local store that can do this for free if you make a purchase (and they may also have a larger selection of demo clubs).

Alternate Lesson Types

Depending on your Golftec location, they may also offer several variations of lesson types.

Outdoor Lessons

My local Golftec had an agreement with a nearby course where they could teach outdoor lessons at a range and practice area. This can be a great addition, especially if you want to work on chipping or bunker shots in a realistic environment.

Playing Lessons

Golftec coaches may also offer the ability to do a playing lesson where they follow you as you play a partial round of golf. This might be helpful if you’re unsure what to work on or need course management advice.

Putting Lessons

I took one putting lesson while at Golftec and found it helpful. They had a decent size putting area in the center and used a tablet to record my putting stroke and gave me some advice to make some improvements.

Conclusion: Is Golftec Worth It?

If you’re a golfer shooting in the mid-nineties and above, lessons at Golftec are a no-brainer. It’s pricier than some options, but you’ll probably need less time to improve. As you shoot better scores, your coach will become more important, and you’ll need to make sure they have a good plan to improve your game. In this scenario, it’ll depend on what kind of talent your local Golftec has to offer.

Pros

  • Comfortable indoor space
  • Slow-motion video swing recording
  • App and website to review lessons online

Cons

  • Coach quality can vary
  • Higher cost than some lessons
Golftec logo thumbnail

Golftec – 4.2/5

An excellent place for mid to high-handicap golfers to take lessons powered by the latest technology.

FAQs

Do Golftec lesson credits expire?

Yes, lessons typically last three months to one year, depending on the package. Mine have lasted one year in the past.

Do Golftec credits go on sale?

Yes, but not often. They typically go on sale in March and again in August, near the beginning and the end of the golf season.

How should you dress at GolfTec? Do you wear golf shoes?

There is no dress code at Golftec. You should wear what you’re comfortable swinging a golf club in and wear golf or athletic shoes. I typically wore golf pants, a t-shirt, and my golf shoes.

How do you book lessons at Golftec?

You can book lessons online using the Golftec app, call the center, or pre-book your next lessons with your coach during your lesson.

How often should you take lessons?

Typically you should have about two weeks of practice time between lessons. Too short and you’ll just need to keep working on the same thing, too long and your previous lesson may not be as fresh as desired.

Comments

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19 Comments

  1. Avatar for Ken McDonald

    Ken McDonald

    NOT AT ALL WORTH THE PRICES YOU PAY ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU TRY TO QUIT, THEY CHARGED ME AN EXTRA 245.00 AND WOULD NOT REFUND! ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK

  2. Avatar for Joel

    Joel

    There are benefits from the technology at Golftec. Loved the video feedback and practice time. In hindsight however, I would have been more selective as to the coach I was assigned. There was little to no acknowledgement of my age and physical condition, nor was there a clear path to improvement. Every lesson was a different drill, a new move, a different video of golf swings by yet another PGA Tour pro with instructions to mimic what I saw. For a 65 YO with multiple back surgeries and neuropathy in my leading leg & foot (which is more or less numb) this was a recipe for disaster. I’ve spent two years and lots of $$ attempting to rehab my back and now know I will never be able to regain the game I had. For me, the end result was regress not progress. My advice – ask questions. Interview the coach. Reach an agreement on what is or is not possible. This was my mistake and I own it.

  3. Avatar for Michael

    Michael

    I’m a successful GOLFTEC Coach, and I agree with what you’re saying here. Golf coaches are just like doctors. Some doctors are better than others and have different specializations.

    At GOLFTEC you are guaranteed that your coach meets GOLFTEC’s high educational testing standards. Their training is rigorous and before coaches can give a lesson, they have to pass multiple test along the way with one final cumulative in person timed test that is pass/ fail. If you fail it, you have to do the two month training again until you can pass. In fact, GOLFTEC’s training is so good, the PGA now uses it to train future PGA Professionals. Given that, yes some coaches will be better than others but it’s like picking any doctor that graduated from Cleveland Clinic. You know whatever doctor you get will be good, but some will definitely be better than others.

    The best thing about my center is the enthusiasm between our coaches about helping each other grow in knowledge and skill. We regularly come to each other with questions seeking suggestions about certain student’s swings. Growing our students and our own knowledge base is far more important than our own ego/pride.

    One thing people can do to make sure they have a coach that meets their goals is ask questions about the results they’ve gotten in the past. Ask If they’ve coached any competitive golfers and if so who. Ask for referrals regarding student success stories. Ask how long they’ve been in the golf business. Ask who their mentors have been when it comes to coaching and what systems other than GOLFTEC have influenced their teaching style. To your point about shooting lower scores, ask them how many single digit handicap students they have.

    You want to have faith in your coach because you will hit more and more walls as you get better and better… especially trying to get into the 70’s consistently. You need to know the walls you hit are a natural part of development vs being caused by a coach who is missing things or telling you the wrong things.

    • Avatar for Miranda

      Miranda

      Your post is really helpful. Thank you!

      May you please recommend a coach in the Area of Orange County California?

      Best,
      Miranda

  4. Avatar for Tim James Sheerin

    Tim James Sheerin

    I got golf lesson as a Bday gift, I was super excited. The only problem is that they said up phone interviews and they never keep them.

  5. Avatar for rick newton

    rick newton

    Bought 5 session package, but after two sessions I asked for my money back!! Very, Very little actual instruction. Lots of new club sales!

  6. Avatar for Gunner Eisenberg

    Gunner Eisenberg

    Hmm,
    Everyone was very nice there, but there was nothing special about this concept. Of course the tech part of it is interesting, but not really necessary to 95% of golfers. I’m a 11 handicap and will stick with a good old golf pro lesson to help me with my game. Don’t get me wrong, this concept can be great for others.

  7. Avatar for Tiger Hogan

    Tiger Hogan

    You have a 2% chance of breaking 80. Go to a “local” pro or go to GOLFTEC…it doesn’t matter- you’ll always be trash no matter where you choose to go for your lessons. Accept the fact you’ll always be a 95-100 player and just have fun.

    • Avatar for Ben Woods

      Ben Woods

      Now I might have to try them to prove you wrong. I have broken 90 but am not consistent, average 96. Had a local lesson on a muni scheduled for Friday before reading this.

  8. Avatar for Matt

    Matt

    This is very useful information. I’ve been weighing buying a package at Golftec, am exactly the guy you’re talking about (22.5 handicap, 60 years old) who will benefit and you pointed out some of the same issues I’d been concerned about, especially coaches since their site doesn’t pop up af biography. Since the site and app are interactive and well executed, it’s seems pretty obvious why you would not have a handy bio for every coach. That will be part of my focus, though I’ve worked with a few coaches and we worked it out. Thanks again.

  9. Avatar for NICK BORTOLOTTI

    NICK BORTOLOTTI

    I’ve seen a lot of negative comments. Some like “accept you suck and go on” how ridiculous. Golf is not about time on course its about proper technique. Golftec or pros can provide that. I choose golftec bc I don’t have to deal with weather or range conditions at the course. I know I will lower my hndcp. Every great golfer had instruction. So get better with lessons or suck all your life. Your choice. Ps. If you have a young kid trying to make a team in Hs or whatever. Lessons early and often, before they ingrane wrong swings into muscle memory.

  10. Avatar for Paul O

    Paul O'Connor

    I think the lessons are great and affordable if you buy the lessons in a package when they are on-sale.

  11. Avatar for Paul

    Paul

    I wanted to get back into golf and knew I needed help. Went to Golftec for a swing eval as I was invited to play at a very nice course and I didn’t want to look like an idiot. It had been 5 years since I played and I try and break 90 when I do. Had the swing eval and I liked it so much I bought a package of 15 lessons.

    Had an enjoyable round and couldn’t wait to get satrted.

    I have had 5 lessons so far. I don’t even recognize the guy who started a 2 months ago. I have read people not like Golftec, the coach, etc… Well I got lucky as my coach is fantastic and has made huge strides with me.

    Its not cheap at around $1300 for the package, but for me its a price I’m willing to pay to enjoy golf.

  12. Avatar for Greg Molicone

    Greg Molicone

    Good article, I golfed for many years before marriage and kids took over, at my best I was in the single digit handicap. But after not playing for 10 years I needed a ton of help. Insert Golf tech, I absolutely loved their instruction and videos of you and breaking down your swing. It dropped my score 5 strokes with room to continue to improve.

    I can’t speak for scratch golfers, but if your handicap is 8 and above, I 100% know these lessons would help your game. I was very happy with them.

  13. Avatar for Brandon Thrift

    Brandon Thrift

    I’ve been playing golf for 30+ years, I’m 41 now. For years I was shooting in the low 100’s, then high 90’s, last year I was consistently in the low 90’s. Over the last 4 months I was breaking into the 80’s. I decided that I should get a swing evaluation and get a little more serious about my progression. I went to my swing evaluation and had a great experience. My problem is that I want to get better and work on my game but I don’t know what to work on. That’s where GolfTec came in. My swing evaluation showed me some things that I can work on and add distance and work on shot shaping. After my swing evaluation I shot an 81, lowest round of my life. I’m going to buy a lesson package with GolfTec next week. My coach seems great and I can see it further benefitting my golf game.

    • Avatar for Everardo

      Everardo

      I’m not endorsed by anyone and just did a Swing Evaluation at Golftec. I found it to be very informative and helpful. I liked the coach and how he explained things. I received my post evaluation wrapup and it was full of videos, explanations, drills, and some handouts. So I got lucky and got a good coach compared to some other’s experiences.

      Here are my observations from comments here and in other online forums.

      Price – People complaining about the price of Golftec but really it’s the same or cheaper than other coaches I’ve seen. The big difference is they are asking you to pay for 5,10,20+ lessons upfront. Many local pros in my area charge $100-150 per lesson, local courses average $15 a bucket on practice days. Total the local pro and range balls for your practice sessions 2-3 times a week then total that upfront and you’re about the same or more. That’s the difference too, many only see their pro and hit the range infrequently. Golftec probably figured out, if you invest, pay up front, then you are more likely to use it. My recommended plan called for 2 lessons and 8 practice sessions a month because I don’t want to take all year to lower my handicap, I want it sooner.

      Coach – Like Kyle, Michael, and others have mentioned. Find the right coach first, try them out for a couple of lessons THEN buy a package once you know you like them, their teaching style, and the availability of the facility.

      Practice – I hear it all that time on the course from others, “yeah, I saw a coach and he fixed my swing but it’s not working anymore so I quit” Well, duh, any swing change is going to take effort and smart practice. Lombardi famously said it “practice does not make perfect. perfect practice makes perfect” So many people think they are practicing and doing exactly what they were taught in one 30-minute lesson and expect it to stick. Without putting in the work you’re going to go back to your bad habits. Like the definition of insanity “don’t continue to do the same thing and expect different results”

  14. Avatar for Marc

    Marc

    I am with you as far as lessons and getting a good coach. So far, so good.

    Getting fitted for clubs there can make sense, but they order your clubs from the manufacturer, and you are paying top dollar, but the clubs tend to take 2-3 week to arrive, well beyond what I could do in a day at a PGA superstore.

    Golftec has no vested interested in getting you your clubs sooner and I regret ordering from them.

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