It’s January and if you made a New Year’s resolution this year, chances are it has to do with fitness. Improving fitness is predicted to be the number one resolution made in 2024 according to Forbes, with 48% of people prioritizing getting into better shape as their main goal for the year. That’s good news for golfers because this storied game, beyond offering beautiful landscapes and quality bro-time, has been shown to have positive impacts on both physical and mental well-being. That’s a win-win in my books.
Sticking with a fitness plan is easier if you are having fun too. Even if you’re not a scratch golfer, you can reap the benefits from the “fun-fitness” golf offers (and maybe even more so since you’re taking more shots…just saying…). Check out these six ways playing golf can help you reach your fitness goals and potentially add more years to your life.
It’s Good for Your Heart: The gentle, yet continuous walking involved in a round of golf provides an excellent, joint friendly, cardiovascular workout. Even if you ride a cart, you are still on the move, getting about 7,000 steps a round according to Golf Monthly. Walking 18 can get you close to 15,000 steps with the average golfer covering about 5 miles during a game. Golfers of all abilities will enjoy improved heart health, weight management benefits and enhanced circulation.
Stress Reduction (For Most of Us): If you keep your cool on the course, the serene environment and natural rhythmic nature of the game can act as a natural stress reliever. It’s a great way to unwind from the pressures of the day and enjoy the great outdoors. Learning to keep your emotions in check can also be a great practice for finding your Zen in other areas of your life away from the course.Mental Sharpness: Managing the game takes strategic thinking, concentration, and focus. Not to mention that on average you keep that up for four plus hours at a time. From calculating distances, planning shots, and navigating the course, our minds are kept busy. The mental challenges of golf help stimulate cognitive functions and promotes mental acuity and sharpness. Improved Sleep Quality: If you are in search of a good nights’ sleep, consider that engaging in physical activity on the golf course can lead to better sleep patterns and result in increased overall energy. Improved duration and quality of sleep have also been show to be perks of regular exercise. According to the Cleveland Clinic, exercising outdoors offers even more benefits by helping improve natural sleep patterns. Social Connections: Golf is best enjoyed with other people and humans need people. Whether you’re playing with friends, family, or even the random single, on-course camaraderie provides meaningful social interactions. Building and maintaining social connections contribute to overall mental well-being.Improved Flexibility and Balance: A natural loss in balance and flexibility occurs as we age, two important factors for aging well and overall longevity. The motion of the golf swing promotes both balance and overall flexibility. Done smoothly and consistently, the golf swing can improve joint mobility in the spine, hips and shoulders with the added benefit of increased core muscle strength. The result? Reduced risk of injuries and improved overall physical fitness.
In a recent New York Times Article, “The 7 Keys to Longevity” , experts on aging explored the top things we can do every day to live longer. More good news…playing regular golf offers most of them! Golf isn’t just a game—it’s a holistic approach to health and well-being.
So…tell your boss, husband/wife or partner you need to play more golf because your very life may depend on it.
