Golf is the perfect tonic for good health, fitness and happiness! People who play golf live longer than those who don’t according to a new study. Researchers from Edinburgh University reviewed 5,000 studies into golf and found that the sport increased life expectancy, helped chronic diseases and improved overall mental health. These physical and mental benefits were seen over people of all ages.
Dr Andrew Murray from the research team said:
“We know that the moderate physical activity that golf provides increases life expectancy, has mental health benefits and can help prevent and treat more than 40 major chronic diseases such as heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, breast and colon cancer. Evidence suggests golfers live longer than non-golfers, enjoying improvements in cholesterol levels, body composition, wellness, self esteem and self worth.”
Members of Parliament have tabled a motion in the House of Commons welcoming the review. Stephen Gethins MP said:
“This review will be of major interest to policymakers in the UK, as it reveals the benefits of the sport for longevity, but also for quality of life.”
So what are the health benefits of golf?
- Exposure to the outdoors and boosts your Vitamin D level
- Burns calories so can help with weight loss
- Helps you get a better night’s sleep
- Keeps your heart rate up
- Is good for your brain and helps reduce the risk of dementia
- Reduces stress and promotes wellbeing
- Helps guard against various cancers
- Improves your vision
- Reduces risk of stroke
- Provides an opportunity to meet new people and make new friends
- The overall risk of injury is low
- Can help prevent osteoporosis
- Reduces your risk of diabetes
- Helps you live longer!
Mr Gethins, MP, summed up the review by saying:
“I really hope that people right across the whole of the UK will continue to pick up their clubs and enjoy the considerable health and social benefits that golf delivers.”
Sky Sports have teamed up with England Golf to encourage more people to take up the game. You can find out more by clicking on this link to Get into Golf.
So, even when the weather is cold and showery and the last thing you might feel like doing is heading outside for fresh air and exercise, wrap up warm and head to the golf club. It will make you feel a whole lot better in so many ways!
If you think someone you know might be inspired to take up the game, share this article with them. Or better still, give them a ring and arrange to meet up for a few holes of golf!
