When we think of sports that will boost our health, most of us think of high impact sports like running and cycling. However, golf can be just as beneficial for your health and wellness, despite the fact that it’s known as a sport of leisure. Golf is one of the most popular sports in the world and is played by millions of people from all different corners of the globe.
If you’ve never played golf before, you may be unsure whether it’s a sport that you will enjoy. However, we strongly recommend that you give it a try because not only is it incredibly good for you, it’s also a lot of fun. Still unsure whether golf is for you? The health benefits that come with playing this unique game should change your mind and encourage you to give it a try.
1.It’s a great form of cardiovascular exercise
Walking along the golf course, carrying your bag, and swinging your club will increase your heart rate. This means that golf is a great form of cardiovascular exercise. Because it’s not a high impact sport – it’s slow paced, it’s suitable for players of all ages and fitness levels. By doing an activity that increases your heart rate, such as golf, you’ll ward off heart disease. Plus, you’ll also make it less likely that you’ll suffer from high cholesterol.
2.Golf burns tons of calories
As well as being good for your heart, golf burns a lot of calories. Walking from one end of the golf course to the other means covering a lot of ground and burning a lot of calories. If you carry your own clubs, you’ll burn even more calories. Believe it or not, by playing one 18-hole round of golf, you can burn up to a massive 1000 calories.
3.It’s good for your mental health
Because playing golf encourages you to get out of the house and spend some time outdoors, it’s good for your mental health. As golf also allows you to meet new people by taking part in tournaments and other golfing events, it helps to boost happiness and improve your mood. Taking part in golf tournaments isn’t just about winning golfing trophies. It’s about meeting new people and making new friends. If there aren’t any tournaments in your area, consider planning one yourself. Just think how much fun you’ll have and how many new golfing buddies you’ll meet.
4.Reduces stress
Just like most sports, golf helps to reduce stress. This is because spending time outside helps you to relax and unwind so that your worries melt away. When you are active – whether it’s cycling or swinging a golf club, your brain releases endorphins. Endorphins improve your mood, making you feel happier and reducing stress. So golf can make you happier and reduce the amount of stress that you feel.
A lot of people undervalue the health benefits that come with playing golf. However, they shouldn’t do, as golf can be incredibly beneficial for both your physical and mental health. So, it’s a sport that is well worth taking up. If you’ve never tried it before, head to your local driving range and start practising. Golf is a great sport because it can be played solo or as part of a partnership and is a whole lot of fun. Plus, it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
