Last week, I finally got to try virtual golf. These indoor simulator-based golf ranges have been around for a few years. Unfortunately, I’ve been a little late to the party and it took a while for me to try one out.
I’ve actually tried the technology behind simulated golf over a decade ago, but it was to get fitted for shafts. The concept is similar: You hit a ball “tracked” by cameras or radar, which then measures speed, spin, etc. and projects the results on the screen.
What has improved over the years is the quality of images, the processing speed, the accuracy of the measurements, and even number of measurements taken. Today’s simulators can tell you everything you need to know about your golf game. And with the popularity of indoor simulators, the quality of the experience just keeps improving.
For my first experience of indoor golf simulation, I went with my son Maui to Golf X Sports Hub in San Juan. Golf X offers the latest in golf simulation, training and for golfers like my son and I, just a couple of hours of fun convenient golfing.
We walked in without a reservation and were given a warm welcome. Intentionally, we went at off-peak hours (around 2pm on a weekday) to avoid waiting times and crowds. The complex is quite spacious, with a reception area/pro shop up front, a short game area in the center of the golf area with hitting bays surrounding the putting green.
Each bay had a table and some chairs for refreshments and somewhere to watch for those waiting to hit or for any non-golfers in your group. There are two premium bays with much bigger space and newer technology giving an even better experience. There is also a fitting bay, for club fitting and testing.
We warmed up with a driving range session before proceeding to a virtual game at Pebble Beach. That’s another advantage of indoor golf. Aside from getting to play regardless of time and weather, you can also get to virtually play at some of the world’s best courses.
Of course, virtual won’t be close to the real thing, but it is still lots of fun. Aside from hitting full shots and chips, the latest can also accurately measure and simulate putts for a complete golf experience.
I can imagine playing with a large group of friends or entering a virtual tournament would be a blast. Aside from just having fun, GolfX can be a convenient venue for lessons for those trying out golf who’d like more privacy than the usual driving range. For advanced golfers and top amateurs, testing equipment and tweaking swings with instant and accurate analytics and measurements make simulators essential.
Aside from hitting bays, GolfX also has a fitness area that houses golf-specific equipment. For those serious about their game or would like to avoid injuries, golf fitness has become a huge and essential part of training.
Whether you’re out for a bit of golf fun or are seriously looking to improve your golf and fitness, GolfX Sports Hub should be well worth a visit.
