Note: This post has been contributed.
Golf is a beloved sport around the world. With a rich history dating back to the 15th Century, it has evolved to become one of the most popular sports, played by millions. With over 34,000 golf courses around the world to choose from, golf enthusiasts have a variety of extraordinary places in which to practice and harness their skills. From the Wigwam golf course in the mountain ranges to the Reflection Bay Golf Club in the desert, the possibilities are endless.
Whether you are a golf aficionado or you are just getting into the world of golf, it’s important to know what the health benefits are. From reducing stress and anxiety to maintaining physical fitness, there are many advantages you can reap from heading out on the green:
It Burns Calories
Did you know that you can burn over 1000 calories in a round of golf?
As mentioned above, golf is great for your physical fitness. Especially when you play it regularly and when you play a full round at a time. Despite it not being a fast-paced sport, the amount of walking you do around the golf course, along with the swinging motion can boost your activity levels. So next time you are at the course, ditch the golf cart and get walking!
It Will Help You Sleep Better
With the amount of exercise and fresh air that you get whilst playing golf, you will be able to sleep better. The perfect remedy to a restful night, you will be able to go to sleep feeling relaxed. As it is more of a peaceful sport than say, football or rugby, you will be able to take your time and enjoy the course – making you feel more at ease and rested.
It Helps With Heart Function
You know what they say – a healthy heart is essential to a long life! Golf with help to stimulate this vital organ, giving the benefit of reducing your cholesterol, lowering the risk of heart disease and helping with the prevention of cancer, strokes and type 2 diabetes.
Exercise For The Brain
Often, people can get reliant on technology. Spending their days watching TV, brain function starts to dwindle. With golf, you can give your brain the exercise it needs as it requires a certain level of memory and concentration. Helping to prevent degeneration and reducing cognitive decline, it will keep your mind sharper for longer! It can also help to delay forms of mental illness – due to the amount of increased blood flow to the brain from the exercise.
It Can Help With Social Esteem
One health benefit that’s often forgotten about, is that golf can help with social esteem. Giving you the opportunity to interact with others on the course, it will boost your confidence in the long term. Golf is an incredibly social game with plenty of opportunity to bond with other keen players – so if you want to make new friends and socialize, get out on the course!