Using golf for weight loss is an effective way to lose weight fast while having fun. Now, everyone knows that golf course food is low on calories. But, it goes deeper than that. Let us understand why.
The game of golf, as we know it today, originated in 15th century Scotland. The standard 18-hole round came about much later, in the 1700s. Since then, golf has enjoyed steady fame as a game of the elites. For most golf connoisseurs, golf is not just a sport but a way of life. And, in recent times, golf has piqued the interest of many people who are looking for an alternative way to lose weight. That is because it is an engaging form of exercise that helps you burn calories quickly, get in shape, and maintain overall fitness levels.
But, can you effectively use golf for weight loss? Short answer – yes!
Playing the standard 18-hole round three times a week can lead to slow and steady but significant weight loss. Let us elaborate.
Walking Your Way to Weight Loss
A typical 18-hole round takes approximately two hours to complete. When you pair that with heavily swinging the cubs, you should be able to burn around 700 – 1200 calories in one round! That is an impressive amount, considering an hour on the treadmill burns about 300 calories.
A study performed on a group of men in their fifties – early sixties found that playing the 18-hole round two times a week for about 20 weeks led to an average weight loss of about 2 kilos. They also lost around 2 cm from their waistline.
Plus, when you carry your cubs yourself and skip the golf carts, that enhances the cardiovascular workout. However, it is crucial that you walk briskly and do not run. That is because golf will have you in a go-stop-go motion. If you intermittently stop while doing a cardio routine, it can nullify its benefits.
Focus on Getting the Technique Right
It is vital to get the technique right. That stands true irrespective of whether you are playing golf personally or professionally. Many golf players reported that they lost significant weight when they played golf correctly. For example, when you repeatedly practice a swing to perfect the move. When you perform the swinging motion, you not only use the muscles in your arms and legs but also engage your core. Over time, you gain muscle mass and lose the flab. Stronger muscles also lead to better health for your joints.
Watch What You Eat On (& Off) the Golf Course
To use golf for weight loss, you have to integrate it with a steady lifestyle plan. If you consume more calories than you burn on the course, you will not be able to create a profitable calorie deficit. That will, in turn, hamper your weight loss. So, avoid eating junk food or snacking mindlessly.
To lose weight, you should consume fewer calories than your body uses. Only then can you encourage your body to burn stored fats for its calorific requirements.
Also, when you’re on the golf course, rehydrate yourself regularly. Opt for water, or fruit infused water, and skip the sugar-filled energy drinks. You can also practice intermittent fasting and religiously follow a well-balanced diet. When combined with a healthy diet, golf can be a great way to lose weight quickly.
Engage in Another High-Intensity Workout
Although you can effectively use golf for weight loss, it is ideal to combine it with another high-intensity workout. That is because golf is a low-intensity workout and is more useful as a steady way to lose weight permanently. When combined with high-intensity exercise, it will help you achieve maximum results.
Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of high-intensity workout every week to stay fit.
Unless you can play golf for 4-5 hours daily, it is a good idea to complement it with some HIIT workouts, strength training, treadmill, or anything else that pumps up your heart rate. That way, you will be able to achieve your target workout every week and lose weight quickly.
Get That Much Needed Sun
Everyone knows that the sun is the best source of Vitamin D, and when you spend enough hours with it, you’ll immediately feel the difference. However, several adults today struggle to find the time to do this. They, instead, spend their time cooped up in air-conditioned homes or offices. In such a case, there is little scope for them to get their regular dose of Vitamin D from the sun.
But, it is vital to break out of this cycle. You should integrate some form of exercise into your routine. That need not be for hours, but even something like 15 minutes daily in the sun will show you the benefits rapidly. Plus, when you play golf, you can not only soak in the sun, but also spend a few hours socializing with friends, family, and colleagues. If you do this a couple of times every week, you will almost immediately notice the results.
Golf for Mental Health
Golf brings with it several positive physical implications. But, it can also have a significant impact on your mental health. When you spend time outdoors, you can connect with nature and breathe in the fresh air. That will make you feel rejuvenated and grounded. While playing golf, you can also catch up with friends and family, or even with total strangers that end up becoming friends and family. All of this together amounts to improved mental health and overall well-being.
So, using golf for weight loss is undoubtedly real and beneficial.
When you think fitness and weight loss, golf may not be the first thing that pops into your head. But, it is still a great alternative to traditional forms of exercise. Of course, you do have to strategically combine it with a steady lifestyle routine to reap its full benefits. But, just how wonderful would it be to play the sport you love, or even take up a new skill, while getting fitter along the way!
