If you want to change your lifestyle, get fit and prioritise your physical and mental health in the new year, starting golf could be the perfect move for you! Golf is accessible to a wide range of ages and fitness levels, so whether you’ve just retired and you’re looking for a way to stay active, or you’ve just moved cities and want an activity that can help get you outside and making new friends, taking yourself down to a golf course could be the best thing you do in 2026.
Not convinced? This blog will outline the top 4 reasons why you should start playing golf in 2026.
Get Outside
If your New Year’s Resolution involves getting outside more or raising your step count, golf is the perfect way to do it! One of the biggest perks of golf is that it is played outside, often at beautifully landscaped courses with amazing scenery. Spending time in nature with fresh air and sunlight is a surefire way to boost your overall wellbeing and escape the stress and pressure of everyday life – there’s a reason why golfers spend so long out on the greens!
Stay Active
Are you experiencing aches and pains that are hindering you from playing other sports? Golf is a low impact sport that helps to keep you fit and healthy without putting too much stress on your joints and muscles, making it ideal for a wide range of ages and fitness levels. The average golf course can be 4 miles or more to walk and therefore provides a great cardio workout that will exercise your heart and naturally lower your risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular issues. In addition to this, the swinging and walking involved with golf can help you build muscle tone, core strength and balance while burning calories.
Playing golf is also a great workout for your mind – it requires focus, planning and concentration, which helps to keep your brain sharp and nimble. Plus, exercise helps our bodies release endorphins that can help to reduce pain and feelings of depression.
Build Community
Golf is also a great way to meet new people and join a meaningful community. The relaxed environment of the clubhouse and course makes golf an ideal activity to start if you want to socialise and connect with like-minded people. Going out on the golf course is also a great way to spend time with your friends, family or colleagues and even meet new business connections!
Learn A New Skill
Learning a new skill at any age can provide a great sense of accomplishment and help to boost your self-esteem. Challenging the brain with new activities has also been shown to help preserve memory and cognitive function, potentially delaying some effects of aging and conditions like dementia. For young people and children, the discipline required to succeed in a new skill and learning to handle frustration can also provide a great opportunity to build character and improve perseverance.
Our Top Tips for Starting Out in Golf
- Consider taking lessons so that you can avoid developing bad habits early on.
- Start with affordable clubs – there are great second-hand and beginner options online.
- Practice your swing at the driving range to build consistency without the pressure of a round of golf.
- Start at a par-3 or nine-hole course to build your confidence.
- Find yourself a forgiving high handicap golf ball.
- Focus on having fun, don’t worry about your score!
By following these easy tips and getting yourself down to your local golf course, you will be settled into your new active, golf-playing lifestyle in no time!