Golf is a game of patience, precision, and perseverance. For amputees, it can also be a powerful path to physical recovery, emotional healing, and renewed confidence. Adaptive golf is more than just modifying a swing—it’s about reclaiming a passion, connecting with community, and celebrating what’s possible. Whether you’re a lifelong golfer facing new challenges or someone discovering the game after limb loss, this guide will help you begin your adaptive golf journey with purpose and direction.

Why Golf?

Golf is one of the most inclusive sports for amputees and individuals with physical disabilities. Unlike high-impact sports that require speed or brute strength, golf is a game that can be adapted to a wide range of mobility levels. With its emphasis on technique, balance, and strategy, golf becomes a deeply rewarding pursuit that transcends physical limitations.

Beyond the game itself, golf offers:

• Low-impact physical activity that supports joint health and cardiovascular fitness
• Outdoor time in nature, reducing stress and boosting mood
• A social environment where friendships and community thrive
• Opportunities for adaptive competition, from casual rounds to international tournaments

Setback Isn’t the End—It’s a New Beginning

Losing a limb—whether from trauma, illness, or congenital condition—is one of life’s greatest challenges. But for many amputees, it also becomes the beginning of a different kind of strength. Adaptive golf teaches that while your body may have changed, your ability to set goals, feel joy, and achieve progress has not.

The journey will look different for everyone, but the starting point is the same: belief that a fulfilling life—and golf game—is still within reach.

Step 1: Mindset Matters – Prepare Mentally for Your Return

Before you step onto the green, take time to prepare mentally. Golf is as much a mental game as it is physical. As an amputee, it’s natural to experience feelings of frustration, anxiety, or self-consciousness, especially in public spaces.

Here are some affirmations and strategies to keep in mind:

• Progress over perfection: Don’t compare your swing to the one you had before your amputation—or to anyone else’s.
• Celebrate milestones: Every small improvement is a victory.
• Surround yourself with positivity: Whether it’s a support group, a golf buddy, or an adaptive coach, find people who lift you up.

Adaptive golf is about empowerment. It teaches you to take control of your new reality and swing with it—literally.

Step 2: Assess Your Physical Readiness

Everyone’s journey to adaptive golf is different, depending on factors like:

• Level and type of amputation (e.g., above-knee, below-elbow)
• Use of prosthetics or assistive devices
• Current fitness and mobility level
• Previous golf experience

Consult with your physical therapist or prosthetist to discuss:

• Balance and core strength (essential for stable swings)
• Upper/lower body mechanics (adjustments needed depending on the limb affected)
• Custom prosthetic alignment (some golfers benefit from specialized prosthetics or limb adjustments)

You don’t need to be in peak athletic condition to start—just willing to take the first swing.

Step 3: Understand Adaptive Golf Equipment

Adaptive golf has come a long way thanks to innovations in prosthetics and accessible equipment. Depending on your needs, consider the following gear:

1. Adaptive Clubs: Modified grips, shortened shafts, and counterbalanced heads help accommodate one-handed swings or altered postures.
2. Prosthetic Golf Legs/Arms: Prosthetics with rotational ankles or torque release features mimic the natural pivot of a golf swing.
3. SoloRider Golf Carts: These adaptive carts allow seated players to stand partially upright for a swing, even from uneven terrain.
4. Balance Aids and Braces: Stability devices help you maintain your stance and alignment.

Talk to adaptive golf professionals or organizations like the National Amputee Golf Association (NAGA) for guidance and grants available for adaptive equipment.

Step 4: Start with Instruction

If you’re new to golf or returning after limb loss, working with a PGA adaptive golf-certified instructor can be a game-changer. These professionals understand how to tailor the swing, stance, and grip to your abilities.

Look for:

• Local adaptive golf clinics
• Amputee support groups that host recreational days
• Online coaching programs designed for amputee golfers

Don’t be afraid to ask instructors:

• “Have you worked with adaptive athletes before?”
• “Can we start with balance and alignment drills?”
• “What swing methods would suit my physical condition?”

Step 5: Practice Smart – Focus on Fundamentals

Adaptive golf is a process. Your body will relearn movement patterns, and that takes time. Break your practice sessions into manageable steps:

1. Stance and Balance: Practice standing comfortably, with or without your prosthesis. A solid foundation is key.
2. Swing Mechanics: Work on a fluid motion that doesn’t overstrain your joints or residual limb.
3. Short Game First: Start with putting and chipping—these require less power but sharpen your control and precision.
4. Use Video Feedback: Record your swing to visualize your posture, balance, and movement.

Step 6: Connect with the Adaptive Golf Community

Golf may be played solo, but the journey is better together. Across the U.S. and globally, amputee golfers are forming vibrant communities.

Here are a few places to start:

• NAGA (National Amputee Golf Association): Hosts tournaments, clinics, and outreach programs
• USAGA (United States Adaptive Golf Alliance): Supports over 40 adaptive golf programs
• Limb Loss and Preservation Registry: Offers community resources and peer mentorship
• Social media groups like “Adaptive Golfers” and “Amputee Golf United”

Playing with other adaptive athletes creates a sense of belonging and motivation that can’t be overstated. Plus, you’ll pick up tips and encouragement from people who understand your journey firsthand.

Step 7: Explore Competitive Adaptive Golf

Once you’re confident in your swing and comfortable on the course, you might consider entering adaptive golf tournaments. These events are divided by classification (e.g., upper-limb amputee, lower-limb amputee, seated player, etc.), making competition fair and exciting.

Well-known events include:

• USAGA Adaptive Open Championship
• EDGA Events (European Disabled Golf Association)
• Paragolf National Tournaments
• Veterans’ Golf Association Adaptive Series

Competition isn’t mandatory, of course—but it can add structure, goals, and camaraderie to your golf journey.

Step 8: Share Your Story

You never know who you might inspire. Sharing your adaptive golf journey can help break down stigmas, raise awareness, and motivate others who are uncertain about returning to the sport after limb loss.

Ways to share include:

• Writing guest posts or maintaining your own blog (like this one!)
• Speaking at local rehab centers or VA hospitals
• Posting progress videos on social media platforms
• Volunteering as a mentor through amputee support groups

Golf is not just a sport—it’s a bridge. You might just be the person someone else needs to see to believe it’s possible.

Final Thoughts: From Setback to Setup

Becoming an adaptive golfer doesn’t mean giving up the game you love. It means discovering a new version of it—one that’s just as challenging, fulfilling, and beautiful. From prosthetic fittings to that first flushed iron shot, your path forward will be filled with resilience, creativity, and courage.

Every swing is a statement: I’m still here. I still belong.

So lace up your shoes, strap on your glove, adjust your stance—and get ready to tee off on a new chapter.