Looking for an activity that’s not only enjoyable but can also transform many aspects of your life? Well, golf may be one of the best options for you. The sport is low impact, social, and mentally invigorating, with a Swedish study finding that golf may even increase your life expectancy by five years.
It’s no wonder more and more people are stepping onto the green. In fact, golf is one of the most popular sports among older Americans, with 5.3 million people aged 65 and over playing in 2019. So, is it tee time for you?
3 Life-Enhancing Benefits of Golf
1. It keeps you physically active
Considered a lifelong sport, golf is a great way for older individuals to get or remain active. The intensity level allows people to continue playing well into their senior years, even after suffering certain medical events like a heart attack or stroke. Because golf is a low-impact sport (compared with high-impact activities like basketball or jogging), it’s even a great option for those who have minor joint or mobility issues. And while you might not think it offers a good physical workout, the endorphins released by the low-impact exercise not only reduce pain, but provide relief for emotional stress. And even more so for those who walk the course instead of taking a cart!
2. It’s a social game
Golfing can be a great way to spend time with your friends or meet new ones. If you’ve just moved somewhere new and you’re struggling to meet new people, there’s no better place than the clubhouse to start. Since it’s typical to play a round with one to three other people, you have plenty of time to enjoy conversation and camaraderie. And given that loneliness and social isolation are associated with a 23 percent increase in risk of death, this aspect of golf may be one of the most beneficial.
3. It boosts mental health
Being in the great outdoors delivers a multitude of mental health benefits, including a natural reduction in anxiety and the effects of depression. That’s because the combination of physical exertion and being in contact with nature can actually reduce stress and mental exhaustion. It certainly doesn’t hurt that golf courses tend to offer incredibly beautiful and peaceful settings as well. Plus, the sport provides an opportunity to refine and enhance some life skills, like the ability to accept the bad and focus on the good—something we can all do a little more often!
So, are you ready to experience the wealth of health benefits that come with playing golf? The course awaits! Visit Westlake Golf & Country Club to try our course today!