IT IS regularly played in the foulest of weather with participants being battered by severe gales and rain as they tackle the links.
But new research has revealed that playing golf can actually add years to your life and help prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease and dementia.
The research shows it has physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages, genders and backgrounds.
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Pooling data from 5,000 studies, it found the sport is likely to boost cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic health – a range of factors linked to the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.
The findings, which were published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, show playing golf could also help patients suffering from heart disease, type 2 diabetes, bowel and breast cancer and stroke.
The physical benefits of the game increase with age with balance and muscle endurance in older people improved by playing the sport.
A regular round of golf can help players meet – and exceed – minimum government recommendations for moderate to vigorous physical activity – measured as at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity such as cycling or fast walking every week.
The study found that golfers typically burn a minimum of 500 calories over 18 holes, walking four to eight miles.
Those using an electric golf cart during their round typically chalk up four miles.
Increased exposure to sunshine and fresh air were found to be additional benefits.
Read more: Jockeys urged to move money from high-street banks after string of frauds
The physical aspects of golf could also help reduce the risk of anxiety, depression and Alzheimer’s disease, said the researchers.
The study suggests golf has physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages, genders and backgrounds.
Pooling data from 5,000 studies it found the sport is likely to boost cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic health.
Dr Andrew Murray, of Edinburgh University, said: “One study in Sweden found regular golfers lived an average of five years longer than non-golfers.
“We know 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.”
Dr Murray added: “Evidence suggests golfers live longer than non-golfers, enjoying improvements in cholesterol levels, body composition, wellness, self-esteem and self-worth.
“Given that the sport can be played by the very young to the very old, this demonstrates a wide variety of health benefits for people of all ages.”
Read more: Jockeys urged to move money from high-street banks after string of frauds
The study is part of the Golf & Health Project, which is led by the World Golf Foundation.
The initiative aims to increase the understanding of golf in health and well-being.
Padraig Harrington, a vice-captain at the 2016 Ryder Cup, three-time major champion and Golf & Health Ambassador, said: “I have seen how impactful golf can be on people’s well-being.
“Now it’s time to get this message out there.”
Fellow ambassador Annika Sorenstam, a 12-time major champion, said: “Healthy living is a subject that’s very close to my heart, especially when it comes to educating the next generation.
“I strongly believe playing golf helps people stay fit, active and healthy.”
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