Are you thinking of a new recreational activity to start? If engaging in sports is on your mind, it may be a good idea to give golfing and its many benefits a try. It will hardly be surprising if you find yourself hesitating with the idea of golf, especially if you know nothing about the game. For one, golf may appear dull compared to other sports that involve more strenuous, physical moves such as basketball and football. In a 2017 survey done by YouGov, golf even tops the list of the most boring sports in Britain. Others even argue that golf should not be considered a sport at all.
Furthermore, you may find the sport involving well-maintained golf courses, expensive golf equipment and luxurious golf resort a bit intimidating. For many, golf is perceived as a rich man’s sport. However, if you develop a real passion for the game, you will discover ways to be an excellent golfer without breaking the bank. You are unlikely to regret giving golf a chance because it is definitely a sport that rewards its players with multiple benefits. The benefits listed below may encourage you to give golfing a try.
Improve Physical Health At Any Age
For many, sports mean a time for physical exercise which is essential to staying fit and healthy. Due to physical requirements, some sports become inappropriate and unsafe as we age. This is not the case for golf as it is a game that welcomes players of all ages or gender. If you are a newbie, it will never be too late to take golf lessons and you still get to enjoy the following perks:
Live longer and avoid illnesses
Golf may be the secret to living longer and healthier. A 2018 research study that appeared in the British Journal of Sports Medicine concludes that golf increases life expectancy and at the same time prevents the onset of diseases. The research attributed the positive effects of golf on health to outdoor exposure and social interaction.
Stay slim
An expansive golf course may require a lot of walking which is said to be the best form of exercise. An 18-hole course could require you to walk up to six miles per round. Aside from walking, the moves required in playing golf can amount to a moderate workout. Swinging that golf club may look easy but repeated moves can tone the arms, legs and back. The physical activities involved can also burn calories. In the long run, golf is an effective strategy to maintain good posture and ideal weight.
Strengthen Mental Abilities & Develop Good Character
Stay Mentally Alert
Your mental faculties are working as much as your body when you strategize your swings and shots when playing golf. So if you want to keep your mind sharp and alert, you have another reason to start playing golf. Also, avoiding stress is essential in keeping the brain healthy. Fortunately, golfing is a truly relaxing sport as many golf courses provides scenic and soothing nature sites. Just the sight of the sprawling golf course (public or private) can be a breath of fresh air.
Develop Virtues
As you learn how to play golf, you also learn important life skills. The game may look simple and easy at a glance but seasoned players attest to the fact that it takes a great deal of patience and focus to master. During a game, the golfer may have to inform the opponent about a foul committed. Thus, the sport involves honesty and integrity. It is no wonder that golf is seen as an effective tool to develop a child’s character. One example is the First Tee program which aims to create a positive lasting impact for youths in various parts of U.S.
Widen Your Social Circle
Do you want to meet new folks and build connections because it is essential for your business? Try spending time on a golf course. Golf is seen as a sport for entrepreneurs because it provides opportunities for networking. The people you meet on the golf course may be potential clients or partners. So in a way, golf is a surefire way to combine work and leisure with ease.
Golf is a sport laden with misconceptions. Many sees golf as a boring, dull and elite sport; but despite of it all, it is still worth the try. The many benefits it brings provide more than enough reasons to convince you to book a tee time!
