Golf provides health benefits for people of all ages, but as you age it becomes even more beneficial. It keeps you active and provides some exercise, helping improve physical and mental health.

If you enjoy sports and competition but want an activity where you are less likely to get injured, golf is the perfect non-contact, non-strenuous sport. While it offers a bit of exercise, it doesn’t tend to put an intense strain on the body, which makes it an ideal sport to keep playing for years. In fact, many people continue to play golf into their 80s and 90s.

How golf provides health benefits

It keeps you active

Being active can help you stay in good health for as long as possible. Golf is a perfect way to get exercise without overdoing it, which is one of many reasons why it’s so popular. In fact, an average nine-hole round of golf burns 400-700 calories, and you’ll walk an average of 1.5-3 miles if you aren’t using a golf cart.

It can improve your mental health

A sport or hobby can benefit your mental health as well. Sports, hobbies and activities can help prevent depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Playing golf can help you work on your focus and keep you active to help maintain health and independence. In addition, it’s a fun sport and it provides some competition.

It keeps you engaged

Spending time with friends on a golf course is good for both your mental and physical health. It’s also a good way to make new friends, especially if you are playing at a country club where there are many social activities.

Although most people can’t play strenuous sports in their later years, golf lets you enjoy a sport and the spirit of competition. If you’ve played sports most of your life, it’s hard to give it up. But, golf can be a good alternative.

Whether you are an avid golfer or just learning, golf offers exercise, competition, camaraderie, challenges, rewards and enjoyment.