Play Golf

Posted on August 31, 2009

[My wife, the best caddie in the world].

Golf is a fun sport. It’s definitely more fun when you play better, but even when you don’t it’s still great to get out and hit the ball around. Yesterday in the Parade Magazine insert in the local paper I read an article about how golf can be great for fitness. Here are a few excerpts:

“A Swedish study found that men and women aged 40 to 79 who regularly play golf have a 40% lower incidence of mortality than those who don’t. In fact, teeing off can add about five years to your life.”

“In addition to boosting your health, you’ll improve your game: The golfers produced lower average scores when they walked than when they used a cart — probably because they were better able to see the details of the course, leading to better club selection and shots.”

– Michael O’Shea, Parade Magazine, August 30, 2009

Take what you will from this, but I found it interesting. Mostly because I’ve seen how golf can help someone get into better shape. My dad plays quite a bit of golf and a few months ago started walking instead of riding a cart. Walking and playing 18 holes a few times a week and eating better have helped him lose weight and feel healthier.

Bottom Line: If you like golf, play golf. If you do play, walk. It’s a whole different game when you walk.