How and Why To Start Playing Golf

Everyone needs a hobby, and the best hobbies are beneficial for your mental, emotional, and physical health. This way, you can have fun while taking care of yourself. One hobby that ticks all of these boxes and more is golf.

Health Benefits of Golf

Golf can be seen as an older man’s game, but this isn’t entirely true. Golfing isn’t the most intensive exercise out there, but a regular golf game can help you to maintain your fitness. First, golf features a lot of cardio in the form of walking, especially if you decide against the golf cart.

Not only that, but you also have to improve your balance and coordination as your perfect your golf swing. You can’t just wildly swing a club to hit the ball, but you have to generate the perfect amount of power while getting the angle just right. This takes practice and, each swing will improve your core strength. You will also build strength as you carry your golf bag, repeatedly lift the clubs, and walk up some inclines. 

Even better, because golf isn’t a very physically demanding sport, anyone can benefit from it. If you are older, unfit, or have health problems, the chances are that you can still play a round of golf and improve your fitness. 

Social Benefits of Golf

While you can play golf alone, it’s designed to be a social game. There’s nothing better than some healthy competition with your friends while you walk around a beautiful golf course. You can talk and have fun together, then you can enjoy drinks in the clubhouse afterward.

Golf is also an inherently family-friendly sport, so it’s a great way to get your children involved in your hobbies and help them to get interested in sports as a whole. You also get to spend time with your children and bond with them, which can be an invaluable way to build your relationship with your kids. 

They will also benefit from the physical and mental health benefits of golf. Golf teaches patience, perseverance, and self-control. Your children will also learn how to concentrate and achieve their goals.

Getting Started

The good thing about golf is that it’s incredibly easy to get into. Nobody likes to be a beginner for long, but because golf isn’t typically physically demanding, you don’t need to be incredibly fit to get started. 

Find a nearby golf club and make inquiries about playing on the course. Different golf courses are more exclusive than others. Some clubs will allow you to play a course for a one-time fee, which is a great option for beginners as you can dip your feet into the sport without making any major obligations.

You may also be able to rent golf clubs, so you haven’t splashed out on a new set without knowing what you want or need. Another good tip for getting started is to make sure that you don’t go alone. Go with friends or, ideally, someone who is already good at golf. They can teach you how to improve your golf skills while you enjoy the game.

Buying Equipment

While renting equipment is a good short-term option, it’s not something you should do for a long time. Once you’re comfortable with golf, then you should invest in a starter golf bag and clubs. You can improve over time, but it’s always better to stick to the basics until you are confident in your abilities and you know exactly what you want.

As you play golf more, you will find that you favor certain clubs over others, depending on your playstyle. This will inform you when it comes time to invest in new clubs. You can spend more money on the clubs you rely on more and more, and you will find that your golf game will increase far more.

As well as being stocked with the essentials, such as clubs, a golf bag, and plenty of spare balls, you should also look the part. For example, a golf vest is a practical way to keep yourself warm on the golf course. A coat with long, poofy sleeves might restrict your movement and interfere with your swing, but a vest is a better option as it keeps your core warm without making your game more difficult.

You also need to wear appropriate shoes that will be comfortable as you walk through the course. Finally, water and sunscreen will prevent dehydration and sunburn, allowing you to concentrate on the game.