Healthy Living Through Golf

There are three main factors that are critical to healthy living through golf. The first element is nutrition. Although it may seem very obvious so many people seem to forget about it. This could be due to the lack of knowledge or the lack of will power. Although it is important to for the golfer to focus on improving their swing, it is just as important to fuel the body correctly during 18 holes.

Nutrition

Pre-Round Meal

The biggest problem many golfers experience is the "want" for a quick high. This desire includes food like grilled cheese, hot dogs, chocolate, soda and any type of derivative. This may release endorphins for a short period, but inevitably results in a crash thirty minutes later. Malnutrition most certainly has a negative effect on play.

To beat these glutinous binges throughout a round of golf, it is important to eat a hardy meal before playing. I usually play early morning so I eat a solid bowl of granola, yogurt and fruit. On the other hand, if I were to play a round of golf in the afternoon, a side dish of whole grain pasta followed by a small piece of fish or meat is great.

How To Stay Fueled?

The best types of food to have during a round of golf are nuts, fruits, yogurt (low fat, low sugar), and whole grains. A light beer, at the nine-hole midpoint, with a slice of pizza is not a good idea, although some players look like they get away with it. It is also extremely important to stay hydrated with water before, during and after a round of golf to reduce muscle cramps and ensure a smooth swing.

A Special Note for Golden Years

I want to take the time to write a line or two for the older golfer because I am on my way to joining this category. It is important for the older golfer to eat a proper amount of protein to ensure strong muscle mass throughout the day. Energy is dispensed and consumed differently as one ages and should be replenished before and during a round with foods such as nuts, cheese, fish, meat and chicken.

Overall Bodily Functionality

The second element to healthy living through golf is improved body functionality. Golf is a solid workout for numerous parts of the body. After an 18-hole course, the abs, lower back, arms and legs have gone through significant work. For a 150 pound individual, one hour of golf burns 230 calories granted the golfer is walking and carrying her own clubs. This number increases to 920 calories in a four hour round. Therefore, a golfer playing two to three rounds a week needs to stretch accordingly and follow proper nutritional tips already mentioned within this article.

Golf also has a positive impact on sleeping habits. After a good round of golf, I feel great during the day but when I get home, I am ready to have supper and pass out. Golfers need their rest to recharge their batteries and to be able to perform during the next round. It is also important to note that sleep is often better following a game of golf. However, during the off-season it is more difficult to obtain a healthy sleep patter.  For example, my job requires me to type on a computer all day.  Instead of relaxing at home I continue to type of the computer at home which keeps my brain extremely stimulated. Thus, I wake up periodically throughout the night.  This continuous cycle often leads to a headache in the morning.

The last positive effect golf has on your body is the Vitamin D intake received from being outside. Although many foods provide bone enhancing vitamins, some sun outside while walking the course can be good. Of course, I will provide you with this one warning… wear sunscreen!

Social Butterflies Unite

The final factor for healthy living through golf is being socially active. This element is extremely important for leading a healthy life. It helps resolve problems, relieve stress and provide feedback on the player's game from a third party. I suggest arrive at a golf course alone and asking the marshal to pair with a twosome or threesome. Although this might be intimidating, more often than not, after the round, the gears are in motion for another golf outing. Meeting new people on the links is not only good for a golfer's health but great for making new friends, business partners, future employees, and future employers. The possibilities are endless!

A Second Note for Golden Years

I came across a very interesting article the other day that spoke about the impact of being social among seniors. The study found that if seniors remained social as they aged, they live six years longer than those who do not. Do not be shy and get out there!  

Writer's Bio: Samantha Wheeler
Freelance Writer, Lija Style