Golf is known to be a gentleman’s game. It is an outdoor activity which aims to pass the ball into a network of courses and shoot it in holes – with as few swings as possible.
Because of this kind of game mechanics, some people may belittle golf as a sport. Those who are unfamiliar with the game see it as a sport for lazy individuals who play it while riding a cart and drinking beer. However, unknown to many is that golf can be both physically challenging and mentally stimulating. Here are some reasons how playing golf can benefit its players.
Golf Is Good For The Heart
People play golf in a space which has a size of 30 to 200 acres. An average course requires a person to traverse a distance of five miles. Add to this the effort into walking up and down in challenging undulations and carrying a golf bag. According to studies, it can burn fats up to 2,000 calories depending on the difficulty of the slope of the course is.
Some players take the cart from one point to another. Even though they do this, the golf swing itself is considered a full body workout since it uses the core muscles, arms, and legs. Hence, golf is already a physical exercise. This kind of exercise results in the following:
- Lowering blood pressure
- Eliminating harmful cholesterol in the body
- Reducing the risk of diabetes and stroke
Studies also show that an 18-hole round can lead to an average heart rate of 100 beats per minute in a span of 2 to 5 hours.
Golf Increases Vitamin D Levels
Golf requires an individual to be under the sun for a few hours. It increases the level of Vitamin D in the body. Vitamin D ensures that a person’s anxiety level is at minimum and assists in heart health and bone growth. Keep in mind, however, that the appropriate amount of sunscreen must be applied while playing the sport.
Golf Exposes Individuals To The Outdoors
The mechanics in playing golf include the presence of an outdoor 200-acre field. This area usually leads to individuals exposed to more natural and green regions which helps reduce stress, lowers risk of panic attacks, and relaxes the body.
Golf Is Good For The Brain
As the heart rate increases, the blood flow in the brain will also go up. This action further stimulates the brain since it improves the connections of nerve cells. As a result, the risk of experiencing dementia lowers as well.
Some golf tasks which include ensuring good hand-eye coordination, coming up with various strategies, and computing and tallying scores keep the brain active. The logical thinking required further helps the healthiness of the mind.
Golf Helps Connect With People
Golf can help establish a better connection with friends and. It also bridges networking with other business colleagues. Once a player shows up with less than a foursome, he or she will have to join other teams. This aspect can be an avenue for other people to broaden their connections. Studies even show that many business deals happen and are closed on the golf course!
Aside from this, signing up in tournaments and attending golf events can also be a space for network-building.
Golf Results In Better Sleep
Since players get tired from the long walks and hard swings, their tired bodies usually result in better sleep. Golfers are proven to have the ability to sleep faster and have a deeper sleep.
Golf poses many benefits. So for those who haven’t started engaging themselves with this sport, it is time for you to get out there and play!