Golf is far more than a recreational sport — it is a moderate-to-high intensity physical activity that integrates precision, strength, explosive power, and advanced neuromuscular control.
Research from the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM) and leading sports medicine institutions such as Aspetar has shown that:
- Golfers have higher fitness levels compared to the general population.
- They experience lower stress levels.
- They have reduced risks of heart disease and metabolic disorders.
- They walk an average of 6 - 12 kilometres per round.
- They burn approximately 800 – 1,500 kilocalories during a single round of play.
All of these benefits are grounded in scientific evidence — not merely assumptions or perception.
Interesting Topics
1.Golf is an activity that strengthens the heart and improves cardiovascular circulation.
2.It enhances balance in older adults and reduces the risk of falls.
3.It directly benefits the brain by reducing stress, improving focus, and stimulating neurotransmitter activity.
4.It is suitable for all age groups — from beginners to professional athletes.
5.Research indicates that playing golf is associated with increased longevity
Golf and the Science of Motor Learning
Golf is one of the sports that relies heavily on complex motor skills, requiring high-level coordination of more than 100 muscle groups to execute a single shot with precision.
Research on Motor Learning from Harvard University and the NCAA indicates that:
- Training with an external focus, such as aiming at the target instead of thinking about hand movement, results in more effective skill learning.
- Variable practice, where the practice environment and situations change, facilitates skill acquisition more effectively than repetitive drills.
- The body and brain learn more efficiently when equipment provides accurate and reliable feedback.
In other words: Repeatedly practising golf with incorrect technique, or using equipment that does not suit the player, can lead to the brain forming false motor patterns (False Feedback) — slowing down overall improvement.
Golf and the Nervous System — How Does the Brain Learn?
- The Basal Ganglia regulates rhythm and tempo.
- The Cerebellum controls precision and fine motor adjustments of the clubface.
- The Motor Cortex plans swing direction and clubhead speed.
This is why putting, iron shots, and course management all function as forms of “brain training” in the sport of golf.
How Does Golf Benefit the Heart, Muscles, and Overall Health?
Research from the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports found that:
- A golfer’s heart rate during play is comparable to brisk walking.
- VO₂ Max increases after 8–12 weeks of consistent training.
- Blood pressure decreases, and blood sugar control improves.
- Walking up and down slopes enhances leg strength and core stability.
Major Physical Benefits of Playing Golf
- Strengthens the core musculature
- Improves the flexibility of the shoulders, hips, and spine
- Builds muscle mass effectively without excessive strain
- Reduces degeneration of the knee and hip joints in older adults
The Biomechanics of Golf: Why a Good Swing Leads to a Better Body
Biomechanics is the key to hitting the ball far, straight, and consistently. Research from NCBI and BJSM shows that a “good golf swing” must follow a proper kinematic sequence, which consists of:
- Hips rotating first
- Followed by the torso
- Then the shoulders
- Arms
- Hands
- And finally, the clubface
When the body rotates in this sequence, it helps to:
- Increase clubhead speed
- Reduce lower back pain
- Decrease golfer’s elbow
- Maintain balance throughout the swing
Common Medical Issues in Golf (and How to Prevent Them)
Sports medicine specialists consistently report that injuries in golf often result from:
- Repetitive improper movement patterns
- Using equipment that does not fit the player
- Weak core muscles
- Swing compensations (Compensation patterns)
Common Injuries:
- Lower back pain
- Wrist inflammation
- Tight hip muscles
- Elbow tendinitis (Golfer’s elbow)
Sports Medicine–Based Prevention Methods:
- Strengthen the core muscles weekly
- Perform mobility exercises for the shoulders and hips
- Ensure equipment specifications match the player’s body
- Focus on proper swing mechanics rather than swing speed
Why Is Golf a Worthwhile Investment?
1)Health ROI That Is Higher Than Expected
1.1 Reduces the Risk of Multiple Chronic Diseases Population-level research from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing shows that individuals who play golf regularly tend to:
- Reduce the risk of heart disease
- Reduce the risk of diabetes
- Lower the likelihood of metabolic syndrome
- Increase HDL cholesterol levels
This is because the body burns 800–1,500 kcal per round, which is equivalent to 60–90 minutes of aerobic exercise.
1.2 Increased Lifespan: Playing Golf = Living Longer A study from the Karolinska Institute (Sweden) found that golfers live an average of 5 years longer than the general population. Key reasons include:
- Walking 6–12 km per round
- Continuous moderate-intensity cardiovascular activity
Comparable to moderate-intensity exercise, known to influence longevity.
1.3 A Safe Form of Exercise for Older Adults Unlike high-impact sports, Golf is a low-impact activity suitable for older adults or individuals with joint discomfort.
Research from the American Journal of Medicine states that playing golf helps:
- Improve balance
- Reduce the risk of falls in older adults
- Strengthen core and hip muscles safely
2) Mental ROI
2.1 Reduces Stress and Enhances Happiness Golf involves focus, mindfulness, and exposure to natural environments—directly activating the parasympathetic nervous system (rest-and-recovery mode).
A study by Stanford University found that:
- Being in green spaces reduces cortisol levels
- Continuous concentration during putting and shot planning stimulates the prefrontal cortex, enhancing memory, decision-making, and emotional resilience
2.2 Stimulates the Nervous System and Enhances Analytical Thinking Golf requires multiple executive functions, such as analysing wind, distance, green slope, and club selection—making it a direct form of cognitive training.
Ideal for:
- Working professionals
- Older adults aiming to prevent cognitive decline
- Youth athletes who need to develop analytical and strategic thinking
3) Social ROI
Golf is a sport that builds relationships more effectively than fast-paced competitive sports because it includes natural moments for conversation during walking and waiting to tee off.
Benefits include:
- Strengthening workplace relationships
- Creating new social and professional connections
- Supporting business networking
- Enhancing family bonding
Social science research shows that strong social connections are associated with a longer lifespan and better mental health.
4) Long-Term Economic ROI
Although golf may appear costly, the long-term benefits make it a highly worthwhile investment.
Current costs include:
- Lessons
- Green fees
- Equipment
- Training time
Future returns include:
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases (lower medical expenses)
- Better work performance from improved health
- Stronger business relationships
- Improved confidence and mental well-being
- Ability to play beyond age 70 (high "lifetime utility")
Based on principles of Health Economics, golf is considered a high-return investment compared to many other sports in the long term.
Golf and the Development of the Brain and Nervous System (Neurocognitive Benefits)
Golf not only affects physical strength but is also recognized as one of the sports with a significant impact on "brain health," supported by neuroscientific evidence.
Research from Harvard Medical School, Stanford Neuroscience Institute, and publications in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that golf directly impacts the structure and function of the brain, particularly the areas involved in planning, concentration, and working memory.
Cognitive Outcomes Observed from Continuous Golf Play Include:
- Increased Cerebral Blood Flow During golf, the body engages in moderate-intensity activity, improving blood flow to the brain. This aids in nerve cell regeneration and reduces the risk of dementia.
- Enhanced Concentration and Emotional Regulation Ability Putting and executing critical shots require calmness. The Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) is stimulated to control focus and inhibit emotional responses. This is suitable for individuals seeking to reduce distraction and enhance a state of "Mindfulness."
- Comprehensive Executive Function Training
- Planning the course of play (Planning & Strategy)
- Evaluating wind, distance, and green slope (Analytical Thinking)
- Deciding on the appropriate club and timing (Decision-Making). This has positive effects on work, study, and daily life management.
- Reduced Risk of Cognitive Decline in Older Adults Research in the 60+ age group found that individuals who played golf regularly showed improved Cognitive Test scores and a lower chance of developing memory impairment compared to those without physically active, focused engagement.
