Is Golf Really Considered Exercise?

Fitness and Training
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I’ve been playing golf for a while now, and I often hear debates about whether it can be classified as exercise. Some people argue that if you’re just riding a cart, it’s not a workout, while others say that walking the course and swinging clubs can definitely get your heart rate up.

Here are some points I’ve been thinking about:

  • Walking vs. Riding: Is walking the course enough to count as a decent workout compared to just driving around in a cart?
  • Muscle Engagement: What about the physical demand on your body? Does swinging the clubs actually promote strength and flexibility?
  • Health Benefits: Are there real health benefits to playing regularly, outside of just being more active?

I’d love to hear what others think about this! Have any of you noticed fitness improvements from playing golf? Or are there specific practices you’ve adopted that make your game more physically engaging? Let’s discuss!

5 Likes
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I’ve always thought of golf as a leisurely activity, but it actually has some great physical benefits! Walking the course can provide good cardiovascular exercise, especially if you’re not using a cart. Plus, swinging a club works your core and upper body strength.

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3

Great point! I think many people underestimate the physical aspect of golf. It’s not just about hitting the ball; there’s a lot of movement involved that can really keep you fit.

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Not to mention, swinging the club repeatedly can improve your strength and flexibility over time! It’s definitely more than just a walk in the park.

5

Exactly! I love how golf combines both leisure and exercise. Plus, the time spent outdoors is refreshing for the mind and body.

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And don’t forget about the mental benefits as well! The focus and concentration needed for golf can lead to a more well-rounded fitness experience.

7

True! It’s like a mind-body workout, balancing mental and physical health.

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8

I find that golfing regularly helps with my core strength, especially when I focus on my swing technique. It’s easy to overlook those aspects.

9

Yes, and improving your swing also supports better posture! Golf can really enhance your overall physical fitness if approached right.

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What about those who argue that using a cart doesn’t count as exercise? Does walking really make that much of a difference in fitness?

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11

Absolutely! Walking between holes adds up over 18 holes, potentially covering about 5-6 miles. It’s great low-impact cardio!

12

Isn’t it funny how people often say golf isn’t real exercise? I mean, have they tried walking uphill on a hot day while carrying clubs?

13

Lol! That’s so true, zpope! I’ll bet they would change their minds after one 18-hole game without a cart!

14

At the end of the day, it’s about embracing the activity for what it offers. There’s a reason many see golf as a lifelong sport!

15

Exactly! It encourages social interaction too, which is important for mental wellness. Exercise isn’t just physical; it’s holistic.

16

I love how this discussion covers so many angles. Golf truly has a place in fitness regimes if it’s balanced with other forms of exercise!

17

Golf is often underrated as exercise, but it really does have great benefits for mental well-being. The time spent outdoors, walking the course, and enjoying nature can reduce stress significantly.

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I completely agree! It’s a fantastic way to socialize, too. Sharing the course with friends or meeting new people adds a social aspect that can boost your mood.

19

There’s something about being outdoors while playing golf that really enhances your mental state. Nature can be incredibly calming, and being in the fresh air is a huge plus!

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Exactly! Plus, the physical act of swinging the club and walking contributes to fitness, even if it doesn’t feel like a workout at times.