By Evan Knowlton, DPT

As the fall season settles in and the leaves change colors and fall to the earth (making it much harder to find your ball after errant shots…), I am inspired to reflect on the health benefits that I have found in the game called golf.

For many, the very first experience with golf displays the communal nature of the game. For me it was my college roommate Dan, for others it is a parent, or a high school coach that handed them a club for the first time and gave tips about how to hold and swing it. There is joy in the shared celebration in a well struck shot and an equal opportunity for laughter on the chunky and funky ones. I look forward to every round I get to play with Dan, or an after work round with colleagues, or the competitive rounds with my playing partner that I likely would never have met without the shared experience of golf.

The opposite experience of this is playing solo, out on the course by yourself. I take this time to put the phone away and unplug from the busy demands of modern life. The next 2-4 hours becomes a personal challenge to connect with your mind and body without distraction. The many scenic views can offer opportunity to stop and appreciate the natural beauty of mother nature. Among the studied benefits of greenspace exposure are reduction in heart rate, blood pressure, improvements in HRV (heart rate variability), and general improvement in self-reported health.

As a physical therapist I would be remiss not to mention the physical health benefits of spending time outdoors and walking the course. Golf carts bring great convenience, but I find the greatest connection to the experience when walking the course on foot. The average golf course is close to 4 miles long, and one round of golf can easily hit the 10,000 daily step goal! Add in the ups and downs of the New England landscape and you’ve got yourself a nice workout!

As Dr. Chris Hastings shared in an earlier newsletter, breathwork is an effective way to alter our physical and mental well-being. The further you hit the ball the more opportunity to practice slow controlled nasal breathing while walking. You will find yourself on the green in a calm state ready to sink the putt!

Lastly, this summer has brought a new aspect to my game as I have been able to share it with my daughter. With a little creativity and a trip to Home Depot, the 3 wheeled stroller turns into a push cart! She guarantees at least one birdie a round as long as the snacks are good enough.

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