time for golf
Golf courses are open for play, and, boasting numerous benefits, golf is likely to be even more popular than ever. We find out why…
Golf is the perfect socially-distanced sport – there’s no physical contact necessary and you’re out in the fresh air. The governing body for the game, England Golf, say the activity associated with playing a round of golf can help mental wellbeing by raising mood and lowering anxiety. So, it’s perhaps not surprising that last year, in the months when activity was permitted, that golf saw a big upswing in those taking up the hobby.
As a sociable outdoor activity, it has got a lot going for it. According to England Golf, walking and playing 18 holes will take around 15,000 steps and burn around 1,200 calories. They also say golf has been proven to extend life expectancy – on average golfers live five years longer than non-golfers!
We are lucky to have some really attractive golf courses in our area and now that the warmer weather is here, what better time to take up golf?
GIVE IT A GO
It is recommended that you learn under the guidance of a professional coach. Group lessons are a great way to meet other beginners, make new friends and have a laugh! And, with a bit of practice, you’ll soon be hitting the ball into holes with ease and really enjoying the game. Anyone can do it, children included.
To find out if this game will suit you, make contact with your nearest golf course and book a taster session.
These are sometimes free of charge.
England Golf has an online ‘Find and Play’ service to help beginners find a friendly local club that offers a Get into Golf scheme. These clubs are ready to welcome new players to the game and they have activities especially for beginners.
GIRLS GET INVOLVED!
There’s more to golf than you might think – and it certainly does not live up to the tired old stereotypes. It’s an inclusive sport, with golf courses ensuring their facilities are accessible to disabled people and that there are appropriate opportunities for play and for competing. And there’s a drive to attract more women to the game.
A campaign called Girls Golf Rocks 2021 will be introducing golf to a new generation of beginner girl golfers aged between seven and 14. It’s all part of a drive to encourage more women to get out onto golf courses.
England Golf say currently only 15% of club members are female, meaning our country is lagging far behind many European countries. Their aim is to increase the proportion of women golfers to 20% this year.
England Golf is the national governing body for the amateur game. The organisation looks after the interests of 1,800 affiliated golf clubs from all over England, and around 640,000 golf club members.
Find more information see Cold Ashby Golf Centre
advert on page 87 of Fresh Home & Living June July issue
“Give golf a go, you will have so much fun and keep fit”