Top health benefits of golfing
Golf is a very popular sport worldwide which provides a stimulating mental challenge combined with a healthy walk in pleasant surroundings and can be played by people of all abilities and ages.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/22/2016/08/golf.jpg)
The game can be played on your own or in a team and may be a casual pastime or a competitive activity.
Health benefits of golf include:
Burns calories
Skipping out on the golf cart and walking the average course can cover a distance between five to seven kilometres. If you opt to carry your own clubs, you’ll burn even more calories, too. With all the walking, carrying and swinging involved, golfers can burn up to 1 000 calories in a single game.
Keeps your heart rate up
Playing golf can lead to quite a bit of exercise for your heart. As is the case with burning calories, the walking, carrying and swinging will increase your heart rate, keeping it pumping and increasing blood flow. Naturally, this will lower your risks for heart diseases and decrease levels of “bad” cholesterol.
Improves vision
It requires pretty good vision to zoom in on that round, little white ball that may be metres away. Golfers learn to hone in on small targets from long distances and even when the ball is on the tee, prior to their swing, golfers are presented with the opportunity to evaluate the keenness of their vision while improving hand-eye coordination.
Better sleep
Since you are getting quite a bit of exercise, your tired body will thank you at night when it’s time for some long deserved rest. Golfers will fall asleep faster and sleep more profoundly, and are able to remain in a deep sleep for longer periods of time due to the amount of energy expended. Deeper sleep is necessary for your body to regenerate cell and repair any muscles and tissues.
Reduces stress
Golf helps to alleviate stress. Being in an outdoor area where you can interact with others who share your interests is a great way to forget any troubles. The pleasure of walking in an open and natural environment and spending time with friends puts golfers in a good mood. This is because playing a round of golf can release endorphins, natural, mood-enhancing chemicals within our brains, making you happier and relaxed.
To perfect your golf swing, watch the video below:
For more golfing advice and information, contact Serengeti Golf Club on 011 552 7200 or like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter or email events@serengetigolfclub.co.za.