GOLF is good for your heart, experts say.
Regular rounds could keep your health above par by slashing blood pressure and sugar levels.
Getty – ContributorGolf s good for your heart, experts say[/caption]
GettyRegular rounds could keep your health above par by slashing blood pressure and sugar levels[/caption]
Playing 18 holes when older was better for fitness than just walking, researchers found.
Study author Julia Kettinen said: “Despite golf’s lower exercise intensity, the longer duration and higher energy expenditure appeared to have a more positive effect.”
The University of Eastern Finland study compared over-65s’ health after either 18 holes of golf, a 3.7 mile walk or “Nordic walking” — using walking poles to stroll.
Golf lasted nearly four times as long and burned 1,377 calories compared to 494 on the walk.
NHS guidelines say over-65s should do some type of physical activity every day.
Elders should aim for 150 minutes of exercise per week and include routines that improve strength, balance and flexibility.
Brits played nearly 25million rounds of golf last year.