You may think that playing golf is a complete waste of your time, but before you pass judgement on those of who actually like golf, you may want to know some facts about the game.

Golf as a Workout-

Golf burns more calories than you’d think: playing an 18-hole round of golf burns around 700 to 900 calories, if you walk, and around 400 to 500 calories if you ride a golf cart. During average round of golf you can walk up to five to six miles. Obviously, you can gain more health benefits from walking while you play golf than riding in a cart because of the weight-loss benefits of walking. But even if you ride in a cart, you end up walking 2 to 3 miles back and forth from tees and greens to the golf cart and you tone and strengthen muscles while you swing.

Golf Can Improve Your Social Life-

Golf is a great way to spend time with your friends and family. It’s also a great way to meet new people – especially if you have recently moved or are traveling.  Wherever there’s a golf course, there is a potential for new acquaintances and friendships. “If you play golf, you are my friend,” said the great golf instructor Harvey Penick. Like with any physical activity, playing golf can help enhance your mood because the physical exertion helps your body release endorphins into your bloodstream that boost your mood and calm you down.

Golf Can Help You Live Longer-

A few years ago a Swedish university came out with a study saying that playing golf can help you live longer.  The study showed that golf’s unique combination of outdoor exercise and social interaction can help you live a longer, healthier life. Regular walking, such as the four to five hours it typically takes to play a round of golf, can also help ward off dementia.

Karen Palacios-Jansen is an LPGA Teaching Professional and Certified Personal Trainer.  She developed Cardiogolf, a golf-specific fitness system available at KPJgolf.com.