Mark Twain once said that “Golf is a good walk spoiled.” I guess Mark never spent the time getting fit for golf.
I do agree that if you have many chores left on your To Do List then going for a round might delay your progress. But if you chose to walk the course a significant amount of calories can be burned while cruising around looking for your ball.
For example, a 160 pound individual can burn 230 calories per hour walking at a moderate pace on a level, firm surface. A 200 pound person will burn approximately 300 calories. Therefore, over 18 holes, someone can burn 900 calories or more depending on the golf course terrain. This is a great low impact cardio workout while enjoying time with friends. And because of its long duration and low intensity you will be using mostly fat as a fuel source. Who knew golf could help you lose weight?
One must also consider the level of fitness needed to play with power and efficiency. The right muscles must be strong to maintain proper posture and swing sequence. A specific training program is necessary to build up full body strength, stability and mobility to deliver a pain free and effortless swing. You will also need the aerobic endurance to walk for 4-5 hours and not feel tired after your round. Not only will you be fit for golf, you will be fit for life as spinal and core strength is paramount for daily activities, sports and general well-being. So organize a round with friends and feel good about the health benefits of a good walk spoiled. Enjoy the links!
For more insight into how physical fitness can affect your golf swing, check out my article about a common swing fault that plague’s most amateur golfers.
Eric Bols, Titleist Fitness Instructor (TPI-CFI) and Certified Personal Trainer (CSEP-CPT)
www.ericbols.com
info@ericbols.com
