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A loyal reader/twitter follower recently asked about the best ways for average income earners to take up a historically expensive sport like golf on a budget. This is an important topic now as golf attempts to maintain its following – even expand – during an economic downturn.

Not everyone has $1,000 for a set of clubs or $100 for a round of golf. NiceBallz recently told you about some great recession deals on gear and green fees. But, even half off new equipment is beyond the reach of many beginners, and what about lessons?

There are a number of ways that people can begin playing golf without breaking the bank:

- Take a community college golf class. Courses, including physical education classes, can cost as little as $15 per unit. For about $50, less than the cost of a video game, you can play golf and practice under the watchful eye of an instructor for a full semester in many places. Try getting 12 weeks of tips for less anywhere else.

- Sign up for group lessons through the local parks and recreation department. Many cities offer low-cost education and training at schools and community centers. You know, swimming lessons, needlepoint and beginning photography. Many municipal golf courses are home to similar low-cost lessons and can be a good way to learn the basics and meet fellow beginners.

- Shop for clubs at garage sales, thrift shops or used sporting goods stores such as Play It Again Sports. Meanwhile, many of the major manufacturers are opening their own “pre-owned” and “outlet” stores online. You don’t have to pay full price to get good gear.

- Buy “experienced” balls online or from the neighbor kid who finds them in his backyard. At $2 and $3 apiece, golf balls can be an expensive part of the game when you lose more than you find. High handicappers can save some cash by buying used balls that still have some life.

- Consider volunteer opportunities. Assistant golf coach at the local high school? A field trip at your daughter’s school? Crowd control at the nearby mini tour event? Often you can earn a free round or practice privileges by donating your time to the cause. Do well for yourself by doing good. Entirely altruistic? Who cares. You’re on the course.

From real estate costs to research and development, golf has always been a costly hobby. But there’s no reason for beginners to pay full price when they can learn the same skills and have just as much fun on a budget.

Even though the economy may be in a recession your game doesn’t need to go out of business.  Drive your own golf stimulus package with a few of the tips above or share your own with other NiceBallz readers at http://blog.niceballz.com.