Love a Happy Ending Lifestyle Magazine August 2013 | Page 48

SPORT – ARE YOU IN THE SWING?
The golf swing that is!
Golf is a fine way to have fun at any age
and, unless you are hindered by specific
health issues, it’s never too late to begin.
Shake off any fears or apprehensions
about taking on a new hobby late in life!
Golf is an activity that truly can be enjoyed
at any age.
Many older people dismiss golf as a sport
they could not possibly enjoy and assume
it is a younger person’s game. Although
golf at top level is physically demanding, it
can also be an extremely pleasant and
gentle pastime.
Most clubs have special rates for seniors: another benefit of aging! Taking lessons, using the
practice facilities, and convincing a friend to go along are all ways to ease into the sport. Set
some simple goals and have fun!
From what I could discover, the oldest active golfer today is 100 years old and still tries to
play three times a week. He lives in West Sussex and you can read more about him
by clicking on this link.
If you can skip taking the golf cart and walk the course, you will be receiving even more
benefits. Walking is undisputedly one of the best low-impact cardiovascular exercises for
seniors. Easy on the joints, it burns calories and builds muscle and bone density. On the
other hand, if walking is something that gives you trouble, you can still play the game with
the help of a cart.
The golf swing benefits everyone
in many ways with balance,
strength and flexibility. Training
exercises will improve your game
and also help prevent injury.
Common problem areas for
seniors in golf are the ankles, hips
and shoulders, and you can do a
number of exercises to help
improve your strength and flexibility
in these areas. You’ll also want to
work on toning and stretching
muscles that work hard during a
golf game, like your legs and back.