1. The Exercise

Finally, after years of rampant speculation and little research to back me up, someone’s done a study to see exactly how many calories you can burn playing a round of golf. According to a study done in 2008, by Neil Wolkodoff, the director of the Rose Center for Health and Sports Sciences in Denver, playing 9 holes of golf, you will burn about 700 calories. Think about it - you’re walking, toting a golf bag, and swinging away. That’s exercise, and it’s great for your heart and soul!

2. The Great Outdoors!

I loathe exercising indoors, especially when it’s nice outside. What better way to spend time in the fresh, sunny air than on a gorgeous green golf course - hopefully NOT in a sand trap!

3. The Time with Friends

Even if you don’t play in a league, chances are you play with at least one other person most of the time, and that’s a lot of time to spend with friends! Make it a rule that you won’t bring your cell phones, and spend the time between shots chatting and catching up.

4. The Nature

There is some kind of wildlife at almost every golf course, from geese and ducks and cranes to butterflies and - oh, dear! - alligators. Take the time to look around you on the course and you’ll be able to see, and enjoy, all kinds of wildlife!

5. The Fun!

I’m not even good at golf and I love it! It’s a lot of fun, especially when you’re not taking it too seriously. Relax, swing, and feel free to laugh at yourself a little. It’s a great stress reliever, and an excellent reason to play golf.

6. The History

As early as 960, wealthy nobles were playing a very golf-like game in China, which then spread to Scotland and/or the Netherlands and eventually became the game we know today. It’s fascinating to play a sport that you know others have played for more than a thousand years.

7. The Tour!

Hey, if I’m going to dream, I’m going to dream big! If I can ever hit the ball in the right direction, or at least the same way twice, why can’t I dream of playing for the LGPA tour? If you get good enough, take a chance! Play at an invitational and see how well you can do!

These are just a handful of the reasons I love to play golf, and some of the reasons I recommend it. Like I said before, I’m not very good at it, but I still adore it, and I still try to play at least once a week! Do you golf? If so, why would you recommend it? Please share!