Health benefits to playing golf.

"Golf is a good walk spoiled" is a famous, cynical quote often attributed to Mark Twain.  However, it might be time to have a rethink.  While it may not deliver the high-intensity workout of a spin class or cross fit, golf can still be a powerhouse for both your physical and mental well-being.  Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just trying to keep the ball out of the lakes, here’s why hitting the course is actually one of the best things you can do.

Extended Life Expectancy –

A recent study undertaken by Swedish scientists shows that playing golf may lead to increased life expectancy.  Whilst observing 300,000 golfers and non-golfers the researchers found many golfers lived 5 years longer than non-golfers.  This was found to be the case regardless to age or gender.

Cardio workout and Disease prevention –

Golf is far more than just a leisure activity.  By engaging in regular play, golfers can significantly reduce the risk of conditions such as heart attacks, strokes diabetes and even cancer.   The low impact nature of the game can also help reduce high cholesterol and blood pressure, whilst the moderately intense aerobic exercise can provide a broad cardio workout, keeping the heart pumping at an ideal rate for burning those extra few pounds.  A full round of golf can burn up to 2,000 calories if you choose to walk instead of using the buggy, providing an ideal cardiovascular workout that doesn’t overload the nervous system like some high-intensity activities might.

Joint Mobility and Flexibility –

For most of us the golf swing involves a full range of motion, promoting joint mobility and flexibility. Regularly practising your swing can help improve the flexibility of the spine, shoulders, and hips, which can contribute to better posture and reduced risk of injury in daily life.

 Stress –

In the modern, fast-paced world, we find ourselves a few hours away from it all in the fresh air; and countryside can provide a perfect setting to aid stress relief.  The moderate physical activity involved in walking a golf course (approx. 5-6 miles for 18 holes) stimulates the release of endorphins, known as the “happiness hormones.” Simultaneously, this low-intensity aerobic activity reduces levels of cortisol, the main stress-related hormone.  And sometimes pounding a basket of balls at the driving range can also help!

Mental health and social interaction –

Not only is golf physically demanding it is also mentally stimulating.  Starting with learning how to play the game you have to have an understanding of the processes needed to hit the ball in the vicinity of where you were aiming.  The mental side of planning each shot, taking into consideration the weather, how the course is playing and the shot in context to your overall round.  This all helps aid mental and cognitive health.  Improving at the game can also help with self-esteem and confidence levels. Even something as simple as keeping count of your score on each hole can also go a long way in helping keep your brain active and sharp.

Golf is also a sport designed to be played with others.  It might be family, friends, fellow members or another golfer you just met on the first tee, whomever you play with, this helps build social interactions.

So, whether you're grinding out a par or just enjoying the scenery, every swing is a step towards better health and overall longevity.

To read the R&A Golf and Health report for yourself, please follow the link below.

Golf and Health Report.pdf