Studies show that it is very physically beneficial to play golf. Golf burns calories, reduces cholesterol, and reduces stress. It is a good low-impact choice for many people.



Most of the physical health benefits from golf come in the choice to walk the course. The average round of golf will take you on a walk that is between four and eight miles. True, some golf courses do not allow walking between holes, and require the use of carts. However, you should consider walking to your ball, and letting your partner come along with the cart.

Some lovers feel that there is no benefit to the kind of walking involved with a round of golf. This is because of the regular starting and stopping around the course. However, much scientific research has been conducted on the matter, and has concluded repeatedly that walking during a round of golf is very beneficial. Even motion such as swinging the golf club and bending down to pick up a golf ball help you physically. It is good for muscle groups to be worked and stretched in these types of motion.

The mental benefits of golf are immeasurable. It has been shown that playing a round of golf will actually release endorphins into your system. Just being out in the fresh air on a bright sunny day is good for anyone. Walking, playing, and spending time with family, friends, or colleagues in such a relaxed environment is very healthy. Coupled with that is the benefit of the mental challenge of planning golf. The strategies involved help to keep the mind sharp. Older people receive tremendous benefits in this area. Because it is a low-impact sport, that improves physical and mental health, it cannot be beat in terms of activity for retired persons.

The competitive golfer has the added benefit of needing to train to improve his or her golf game. There are various exercises related to different club strokes, and stance that improve the golfer's overall health while training for the sport. Because lower back injury is often a factor in playing golf, exercises to strengthen the lower back are often performed. In addition, use of medicine balls, exercise (Swiss) balls, strength and stretching exercises, and conditioning exercises are often implemented into the daily training routine of professional golfers.

Information on these exercises is readily available and good for the beginner and amateur golfer as well. Actually, these exercises are good for you if you do not play golf. It is clear that the health benefits of playing golf are numerous. Whether physical, metal, or social, golf improves quality of life.