Golf has been around for centuries—nearly 1,000 years in fact—but recently has seen a real surge in popularity again as Covid restrictions meant team sports were a no go. It's now not just a pastime for retired folks, either; one study found that about half of all golfers are under the age of 55, and this number is getting lower.
But what exactly is it about this game that people love so much? Is it because they enjoy spending time outdoors? Is it because they like hitting balls into holes? Or is there something else going on here?
Golf is an excellent sport for your body and mind. It's a way to get some fresh air, exercise and socialise with friends. Many other health benefits come from playing golf:
‣ Golf promotes good posture.
‣ Golf improves coordination and strength.
‣ Golf is a low-impact activity with low risk of injury.
‣ Golf helps you learn how to manage stress and emotions.
‣ Golf helps prevent weight gain.
‣ Golf reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
‣ Golf provides vital social interaction and all the benefits that come with that.
So will golf increase your quality of life and help you live longer?
I think it is pretty obvious that if golf has all of the above benefits then it most likely will help you enjoy your life for longer.
The key to these benefits is to make sure that you have good technique, you play regularly and be sure to walk as much as possible.
Here are some tips to help you achieve this:
• Join a beginner's golf coaching program that will teach you all the basic skills and techniques in a way that won't hurt your body.
• Ask the program organiser to introduce you to other golfers or a social group that plays regularly.
• Buy yourself a reliable pushcart to have your bag on as you walk. This means you don't have to carry your heavy bag around.
If you haven't started playing golf and are not sure where to start, give me a call, and I will guide you along the journey to becoming a golfer.
