Amateur golf may be known as a “laid-back” pastime or a way to network with business colleagues, but recent research suggests it can also serve as a fun way to play golf. form of exercise.
Experts say that while golf may not seem to be the most physically demanding sport, it has tangible health benefits, especially when you don’t use a cart.
“Walking the course, which can take more than 15,000 steps, is obviously exercise, but there are other physically demanding aspects as well. play golf” Tom Matassa, a golf medical professional trained through the Titleist Performance Institute, told Fox News Digital.
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“Even without walking, the average recreational golfer typically takes an average total of 108 to 200 swings (including practice swings) over an 18-hole round,” said Matassa, a physical therapist and owner of Dynamic Golf Performance in New York. “This requires physical effort.”
Research supports the health benefits of golf. A 2023 study published in BMJ Open Sport and Exercise Medicine compared three types of exercise to determine which was most effective:
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Researchers studied 25 golfers over the age of 65 and found that while all three activities appeared to lower cholesterol; blood pressure Golf had a small positive effect on blood sugar and lipid profile levels. The researchers thought this was because the game lasted longer and burned more calories.
“Golf has many of the same benefits as exercise. stress reductionmobility, balance, cognitive engagement and concentration,” Matassa told FOX News Digital.
Ed Farrell, Certification strength and conditioning The specialist and physical therapist at Physical Solutions in Bethpage, New York, agreed that swinging a golf club can be a form of exercise.
“The golf swing may take advantage of the superior mobility and flexibility of the shoulder girdle, and shifting weight during the swing may be a good exercise for developing balance,” he told FOX News Digital.
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In addition to being frustrated when golfers miss a putt, they also need to be aware of the following: potential health risks Something related to sports.
Swinging a golf club may seem easy, but the movement puts a lot of stress on your body. Because rotation is required, twisting and stress can occur. specific joints Experts say it’s especially noticeable in muscles if other areas of the body are tight. As a result, studies have shown that golfers are more likely to suffer from hip tightness and lower back pain.
“Golf requires significant physical demands to be played safely and at a higher level for extended periods of time,” Matassa said, noting that some elite golfers can swing the club at over 120 miles per hour. “Golfers must train to meet these demands. [focusing on] flexibility, balance, strength and power. ”
Farrell warned that golfers often develop conditions such as shoulder tightness and epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow), which is seen in novice players who swing or grip too tightly.
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Experts also see lower back problems in advanced players who play multiple days each week. degenerative changeshe told Fox News Digital.
A typical round of golf lasts several hours and involves walking up to four to seven miles over uneven terrain. Experts recommend wearing appropriate footwear to avoid foot and knee injuries. Instead of carrying a heavy golf bag on your back, you can use a pull cart to reduce the strain on your lower back.
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Weather can also be a potential risk. Playing in hot environments can increase your risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and sunburn. Experts advise always bringing water to stay hydrated and wearing sunscreen.
Experts agree that while golf is a good way to increase your activity level, it shouldn’t be your only form of exercise.
“As with all recreational sports, these tasks alone are not enough to be considered a balanced routine. health benefitsFarrell told FOX News Digital, adding, “Maintaining physical strength as we age is key to maintaining independence.”
Farrell recommends individuals follow a twice-weekly strength training routine that includes weight training, stretching exercises, and aerobic exercise such as an elliptical or stationary bike.
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He said it’s best for golfers to adjust their exercise programs with “offseason improvement and in-season maintenance” in mind.
Both experts emphasized what individuals should do. Please check with your doctor Before starting an exercise program, talk to your physical therapist about any conditions that may limit your activity.
