“Golf, It’s Good for You” was the tagline introduced by Golf Canada with the launch of its Golf & Health campaign in 2024. This concise and effective message clearly captured the campaign’s purpose—but just how beneficial is golf, really? A closer look at the game reveals a wide range of physical, mental, and social benefits that contribute to overall well-being.
Physical Benefits
According to a study conducted by the R&A, golf offers numerous physical health benefits. Beyond improvements in strength and balance, the sport can:
- Burn up to 2,000 calories during an 18-hole round
- Add up to five years to a person’s life expectancy
- Help reduce the risk of more than 40 chronic illnesses, including cancer, diabetes, and stroke
Golf can also help players achieve the recommended goal of 10,000 steps per day, making it an effective and enjoyable form of physical activity.
Mental Benefits
Golf provides significant mental health benefits in addition to its physical advantages. The same study found that outdoor activities help reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm—an especially important benefit observed during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Golf also helps to:
- Promote focus and concentration
- Enhance overall mood
- Reduce the risk of anxiety and depression through social interaction
Most notably, participation in golf has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia by 37 percent.
Social Benefits
The social benefits of golf are equally compelling. The game can be enjoyed by individuals ranging in age from 4 to 104 and enhances social well-being for participants of all skill levels. Golf encourages connection, introduces opportunities to meet new people, and adds enjoyment and structure to daily routines.
Research also indicates that 80 percent of golfers report greater satisfaction with their social lives compared to non-golfers.
While snow may cover the ground during the winter months, Golf Canada’s recent launch of Just Swing—which focuses on expanded golfing opportunities beyond the traditional course—allows players to enjoy many of these benefits year-round through simulators, driving ranges, and other golf-related activities.
Golf Canada Just Swing Website
So the next time you’re looking for an engaging and active pursuit, remember: Golf—it’s good for you.