Health Benefits of Playing Golf

Golf is an activity for the entire family, with men and women of all ages and physical abilities able to play. Its handicapping system allows players to compete on a fair and equitable basis.

It’s a great social activity, helping to foster relationships and keep people active in their communities. Studies have shown that golfers live longer than non-golfers and it’s also been linked to a lower risk of depression.

There are plenty of health benefits to playing a round of golf, from boosted immunity to improved sleep. Plus, it’s a great way to exercise and spend time outdoors in the beautiful countryside.

Outdoors, fresh air and sun are all known to have positive effects on mental health – from lowering stress levels and increasing serotonin production, to boosting creativity and self-esteem! Being outside is also necessary for the body to absorb vitamin D, which is vital for bone and immune health.

As a sport, golf is a low-impact activity that won’t aggravate any preexisting health conditions or injuries. If you’re new to the game, it’s recommended to take lessons before you start.

If you do play, be sure to stretch before and after, focusing on your back, shoulders and arms. As with any sport, you’ll want to wear adequate clothing and shoes for the activity.

Keeping your heart rate up while walking around the course is another important factor in maintaining cardiovascular fitness, as is swinging to hit the ball with a golf club. This is a great workout that will boost your endurance and stamina while helping to improve muscle strength in your core and arms too!

You’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that walking around an average 18-hole course can burn up to 1000 calories! This is because of the amount of walking involved and the fact that you’ll be carrying your clubs.

It’s a great activity for older adults, as it helps to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and obesity. The activity has been proven to increase HDL levels – “good” cholesterol – and it also has a strong impact on muscle strength, which will help to improve balance and prevent falls later in life.

The activity has been shown to be a beneficial addition to an existing exercise routine or can be used as an alternative to high-impact exercise like running. Unlike running, however, golf can’t be done at full intensity every day, as it requires more rest to prevent fatigue.

This activity is also an excellent way to maintain a healthy weight, especially as the game can be enjoyed by people of all ages and ability levels. Aside from the obvious weight loss and cardio benefits, golf can also be a good way to build strength and improve flexibility.

Living in a golfing community is one of the best ways to stay active, as it’s usually situated in a lovely countryside setting or on a country estate. Many courses are within a short drive of most homes, meaning that golfers can easily take advantage of their surroundings to get some exercise.