Golf

The game that owes its origins to the Scots has become amazingly popular in the past few years, especially with women. This sport is fantastic for those who love to socialise and have good hand-eye coordination as well as a steady swing.
cardio
flexibility
strength
weight loss
injury potential
schedule flexibility
ratings key and credits

the workout
Golf is a fairly complex game, but here’s the gist of it: the aim is to get from point A (the tee) to point B (the hole on the green) in as few shots as possible.

upside
Golf is a game of strategy and accuracy, so the best athlete doesn’t always win. Anyone from children to seniors can play. Walking while pulling a golf trolley or carrying your golf bag can help burn calories and increase your stamina.

downside
Break out your credit card, as golf is an expensive pastime. One round of golf (18 holes) can cost anywhere from £18-£20 or up to £30 on the weekends (not including trolley hire). A second-hand set of clubs can cost up to £150 with brand new ones up to £2500, or more. Playing can also eat into family time on the weekends.

the pros say

  • You don’t need to pay the expensive green fees every time you want to ‘practice.’ Many driving ranges offer a bag of 50 balls for £3-£5.
  • The cost of a lesson from a golf pro is approximately £20-£75 per hour.
  • Many clubs offer huge discounts (up to 50%) to club members so if you’re going to play a lot it’s worth joining up.
  • Working out to increase strength, flexibility, stamina and balance can help improve your golf game.

requirements
Gear: clubs: A full set will typically include a set of irons (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and a pitching wedge), a set of woods (driver, 3, 5) and a putter. You’ll also get a bag, golf gloves, golf shoes, golf balls and tees.
Instruction/Facilities: A golf course or a driving range. You should consider taking lessons, as bad habits are tough to break once you learn them. But the real key is practice. It takes years to become a halfway decent golfer, but if you enjoy the game it’s worth the effort.
Time: 4 to 6 hours to play 18 holes.