The relationships between golf and health: a scoping review

Abstract

ObjectiveTo assess the relationships between golf and health.DesignScoping review.Data sourcesPublished and unpublished reports of any age or language, identified by searching electronic databases, platforms, reference lists, websites and from consulting experts.Review methodsA 3-step search strategy identified relevant published primary and secondary studies as well as grey literature. Identified studies were screened for final inclusion. Data were extracted using a standardised tool, to form (1) a descriptive analysis and (2) a thematic summary.Results and discussion4944 records were identified with an initial search. 301 studies met criteria for the scoping review. Golf can provide moderate intensity physical activity and is associated with physical health benefits that include improved cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic profiles, and improved wellness. There is limited evidence related to golf and mental health. The incidence of golfing injury is moderate, with back injuries the most frequent. Accidental head injuries are rare, but can have serious consequences.ConclusionsPractitioners and policymakers can be encouraged to support more people to play golf, due to associated improved physical health and mental well-being, and a potential contribution to increased life expectancy. Injuries and illnesses associated with golf have been identified, and risk reduction strategies are warranted. Further research priorities include systematic reviews to further explore the cause and effect nature of the relationships described. Research characterising golf's contribution to muscular strengthening, balance and falls prevention as well as further assessing the associations and effects between golf and mental health are also indicated.

Specific types of sports and exercise group participation and socio-psychological health in older people

“…According to a scoping review, playing golf could provide a moderate-intensity physical activity and was associated with physical health benefits (e.g., improving cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolic profiles) (Murray et al, 2017). Although several qualitative and quantitative studies with small sample sizes described benefits related to self and group identity and social connections, the evidence related to golf and mental health and wellness is still limited.…”

“…Our findings of excellent selfrated health, low depressive symptoms, and a high frequency of laughter in many older individuals who golf in a group suggest that this is a group activity which has a positive effect on mental health and wellness among the older people. Golf is thought to be a sport with many intergenerational interactions, (Murray et al, 2017) which may explain why it is preferable to these participants. However, further study is required to investigate the detailed mechanism behind these benefits.…”

Effects of golf training on cognition in older adults: a randomised controlled trial

“…In fact, there were no effects of golf on physical performance as well as cognitive functions during the 6-month intervention period, although previous studies of golf have indicated that golf may improve proprioception, balance, muscular endurance and muscular performance, particularly in older adults 30–32. Based on Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) values, researchers have generally agreed that golf is a moderate-intensity aerobic activity, with a mean estimated MET value of 4.5 33. Thus, golf may exert beneficial effects in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases, as physical inactivity is known to increase the risk of many adverse health conditions, including major non-communicable diseases such as coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and breast and colon cancers 34.…”

An observational study of spectators’ step counts and reasons for attending a professional golf tournament in Scotland

“…7 8 Golf can provide a novel and suitable narrative to provide a link between sport, walking and potential health benefits. 9 Golf playing and spectating is particularly popular in middle-aged and older adults in North America, Europe and Asia in particular. 10 This demographic typically have lower levels of PA compared with younger adults and children.…”

“…17 Our recent scoping review identified knowledge gaps, namely that no studies have characterised the effects of spectating at golf tournaments on PA knowledge or PA levels. 9 18 We aim to contribute to these knowledge gaps. We first address critical feasibility questions and assess the extent to which spectating delivers opportunities for PA.…”