[Old-old-Ivy]

Depends on how you start. I started pretty young (13? 14? It seems young NOW) but I just...played. Instruction was at most "hold it like this...close enough, go hit a few drivers and don't bug the members". I developed both a real love of playing and a whole host of bad swing habits that are ingrained now and probably forever.

When my daughter starts, if she shows ANY interest...not gift or talent, interest...lessons are the first thing. She can play all she wants, but with a solid base she'll be good for life.