Introduction
Golf might not be on the list of the most physically demanding sports. Moreover, many people consider it to be a sport for snobs, business people, or seniors. And sure, in the past golf was a high-end sport for elites. These days, however, are long gone.
Golf has become much more accessible in the last few years, and each year, more and more people are trying their chances on golf courses. Additionally, considering the health benefits of playing golf, the more players, the better.
It’s actually quite funny, as most people don’t think of it as a sport that can improve their general well-being. And sure, it won’t build your fitness the way jogging, swimming, or weight lifting does. Nevertheless, taking your Ping golf clubs to practice your swing is a great way to exercise.
And what are the exact health benefits of golf? Keep reading to find out. Here are 7 reasons why playing golf is good for you.
Improved Fitness
First of all, if you think that golf is nothing more than swinging a club a couple of times and driving from one hole to another in a cart, you couldn’t be more wrong. There’s a lot of walking involved, and if anything can build your fitness, it’s an 18-hole stroll.
And don’t forget that you also have to carry your golf club bag around, which can weigh even up to 14 kilograms. Combine it with constant swinging, and you get quite the workout.
Healthier Heart
If you have any cardiovascular problems, excessive exercise can do more harm than good. Still, you need to find a way to get your heart rate up and blood pumping. Most people decide to go for a walk more often, but if you find strolls boring, why don’t you make it more interesting by adding golf to the mix?
Go out and play a round of golf. As various researches show, a full eighteen-hole course involves walking an average of 11,000 steps. It can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease development, and at the same time, improve your cardiovascular system.
Reduced Stress
But physical health is not the only thing you need to be concerned about. Your mental well-being is equally important, and golf can be a fantastic way to improve it.
Playing golf, like any other sport, increases the production of endorphins in your brain, making you feel happier and relaxed. And you can be sure that nothing can reduce stress like a peaceful round of golf in the fresh air.
Socialising
One of the best things about golf is that it involves a lot of socialising. Some people think that it’s the individual game, but the reality is entirely different. On a golf course, you constantly talk with someone, and the only moment where you don’t is when you swing your golf club.
Keep in mind that socialising is crucial for your mental health, especially now. The pandemic causes a lot of stress, and going to a golf course to spend some time with your friends is a perfect way to blow off some steam.
Improved Concentration
Game of golf requires focus, concentration, and accuracy. Without these, you’ve got nothing to look for on a golf course. But that’s not all. You also need to think creatively to be able to visualise where your shot is going to land.
All of that makes golf quite a brain exercise. And the more time you spend on practising your shots, the more blood is being pumped into your brain, improving your concentration, coordination, and muscle memory.
Vitamin D Intake
The more time you spend in the fresh air, the better it is for your overall health. And since playing golf requires a lot of time spent outdoors, your body and mind can only benefit more from that.
Outdoor exercise can decrease the risk of various chronic diseases, as well as boost your immune system thanks to Vitamin D intake.
Increased Life Expectancy
And last but not least, playing golf may increase your life expectancy. After all, every time you play golf, you have fun, and the more you enjoy life, the better for your mental and physical health.
And as science proves, being happy can help you live longer. After all, why do you think so many elderly play golf?
Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many reasons why golf can be beneficial to your overall physical and mental health. In fact, most sports have a great impact on your body and mind, so why would golf be an exception?
And if you’ve always thought of golf as an activity for snobs, it’s high time you stop. Sure, starting your adventure with it may not be the least expensive experience. Nevertheless, it’s worth trying out.
After all, your health can only benefit from that, and it’s something you can’t put a price tag on.