I'm just about to become a member of a course, gain my handicap and try and give this sport a go.

However, the course in question (which I find very challenging) is just over 5,000 yrds long (par 66). This as you know is very short by anyones standards, however, it has the toughest par 3's (uphills with gaurded bunkers, tunnel of trees with a 20 yard gap that last for over 100 yrds, 240 yrd par 3, - all very daunting), awkward dogleg par4's etc. - so it really tests your game.

I am nervous that it will leave me a little rusty for the 550yrd par 5's or 440yrd par 4's that exist on other courses. I only use the driver on 10/11 holes (and often opt for the 3 wood as the course is ultra tight - tightest I've ever played and has some well placed water).

I'm aware that the tough par 3's and tight par 4's and par 5's will stand (and have stood) to me on other courses, I would appreciate peoples advice on what possible bad habits I need to be careful of developing on a short course.

I have friends who play a course that is 6,500 yrds, but it is very wide and has no water at all. They really suffer on a tight course - and it's easy to see why. I just don't want to fall into the opposite traps that may exist from playing a short course a lot.

Any wisdom appreciated.