Above The Bay

Created by our neighbours in Scotland, golf has been a popular sport for many years. After losing some popularity in the twenty-tens, the twenty-twenties we have seen a new rise in popularity of the sport, which is no surprise to us. Golf has so many benefits, from physical to mental to social. In this blog, we explore all the benefits of playing golf and why you give it a go.

What are the physical benefits of golf?

The main health benefit of golf is improved cardiovascular health and longevity. Walking round an 18-hole course is great low-impact aerobic exercise, helping easily meet weekly recommended exercise targets.

Evidence suggests that people who regularly play golf can have an increased life expectancy of up to five years. Golfers can walk up to 5 miles per round which helps lower bad cholesterol, reduce risk of type 2 diabetes and a lower risk of heart attacks and stroke.

Full body swings help strengthen the core, shoulders and back, as well as helping improve balance while walking helps develop the lower body. If you can, opt for walking round the course rather than getting a buggy.

What are the mental benefits of golf?

Being outside in the sunshine and fresh air is great for topping up those vitamin D levels while helping reduce stress. One added benefit of playing at Above The Bay, is you get to enjoy the beautiful sea views and fresh sea air, which are powerhouses in helping reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Golf takes focus and strategy, to calculate distances, choosing the right clubs and analysing conditions which can help sharpen your brain function. Physical exercise outdoors can help promote better sleep by regulating your circadian rhythm for deeper sleep.

Getting better and developing your golf skills is also great for self esteem and building confidence.

What are the social benefits of golf?

Golf can be played in groups or on your own, but even if you’re on your own, finding people with common interests instantly gives you something to talk to people about, making new friendships and staying social. With many golf courses having club houses, they are a great way to socialise and make new friends.

If you are playing with friends, spending four or more hours walking round a golf course helps develop your existing friendships and foster deeper relationships.

How to get into golf?

As a complete beginner, getting into golf can be daunting. At Above the Bay, home to Falmouth Golf Club, we want to make it as easy and stress-free as possible which is why we have Get into Golf adult beginner courses which are a friendly, relaxed 5-week small-group introduction costing £75 per person. It covers fundamental grips, stance, swing building, and your first steps on the course with no experience, equipment, or special clothing required.

We also offer 1-2-1 golf lessons and our golf studio is available for hire to practise your swing. We also have a DNA Fitting system that helps you find the perfect golf clubs for you.

If you find you love it, we offer a range of golf membership options to suit your circumstances and playing habits. Browse our golf membership packages below to find the perfect plan for your golfing requirements. All members get 10% off all food and beverages (excluding special promotions) in our restaurant and club house.