This low-impact, lifelong sport could be an excellent option to exercise, socialize and revel in nature — three aspects linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
Famously described as “a good walk gone bad,” golf is nonetheless a preferred sport within the United States, played by an estimated 25 million Americans. And one could argue that relatively than spoiling an excellent walk, the sport provides an excellent way for people of all ages to remain physically lively and reap other heart-related rewards.
A longtime golf enthusiast, Dr. Mueller often plays twice per week – picking up his clubs and walking all the 18-hole course. That's between 4 and five miles, easily meeting the really helpful day by day fitness goal of 10,000 steps. His bag of clubs weighs about 20 kilos, which adds somewhat extra effort to his walking. “That way, I don't have to go to the gym as often,” he says.
More reasons to walk
Course walking also lets you higher appreciate the encircling nature and fresh air. There's something soothing about being in the midst of all this green space, says Dr. Muller. One of his favorite courses, built on an abandoned phosphate mine in Florida, features rolling hills, small ponds stuffed with fish, and plenty of birds and other wildlife. The walk also gives you time to strategize about your next shot. For serious players, that mental challenge is an element of the sport's appeal — and the relaxed focus it requires can even help reduce stress.
Some courses don’t allow golf carts. But in others, vehicles are mandatory. Years ago, Dr. Mueller selected to walk a course that required golf carts and was stopped by a rules enforcement ranger. “I said, 'I'm sorry, sir, but I'm a cardiologist and I'm trying to forestall heart disease by exercising. Tell that to your boss.' The ranger checked out me and said, 'You know, I've had bypass surgery, and also you're right, but you’ve got to follow the principles, so get back within the cart.'
Tee Time Tips for New GolfersIf you're inquisitive about playing golf, see in the event you can get a friend who plays to take you to a driving range or nine-hole course to point out you the ropes. Taking lessons can also be an excellent idea. Swinging the golf club shouldn’t be intuitive or natural, and you should avoid bad habits. One downside is cost: When you concentrate on buying a set of clubs and shoes, paying regular green fees, or joining a personal club, golf could be quite expensive. But beginners can get monetary savings by renting clubs or buying used clubs, which run about $150 to $300 for a set. Private courses could be expensive, but the typical price for an 18-hole round at a public golf course is $36. Golf Digest. |
Playing from old age
Another advantage of golf is which you could play well into old age, unlike more demanding sports like basketball or tennis. Even in the event you're not physically capable of walk all the course, hitting the ball works your core and arm muscles. It also challenges your balance because as you swing, your trunk rotates and your weight shifts.
At the American Stroke Association meeting last February, researchers reported the outcomes of a study of nearly 5,900 adults age 65 and older. Those who played golf recurrently (no less than once a month) were less more likely to die throughout the 10-year study than non-golfers. But as Dr. Muller notes, people who find themselves healthy enough to play golf produce other reasons to clarify their longevity. “I can't advocate playing golf more aggressively to live longer,” he says. “But golf can certainly provide a way to live a better life.” His father, who lived to be 100, shot in a hole at age 92 (his second time). He attributes his longevity to 2 things: golf for the body and bridge for the mind, says Dr. Muller.
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