13 May Golf: We Share Why The Sport is Seeing So Many Young Athletes Join
A new trend has arisen in youth sports. When it comes to sports kids are interested in, golf is on the upswing. Compared to other physical and contact sports, golf’s popularity is rising steadily compared to past years.
One of the best features of the sport is that it can be played, or at least practiced, year round. Due to high-injury rates in contact sports, families are moving away from traditional youth sports in favor of non-contact sports, like golf. In fact, each year there are an estimated 135,000 children age 5-18 who receive a sports-related brain injury according to the CDC. The lower risks associated with golf appeal to many parents and golf itself is appealing more to kids of all ages.
Although golf is a sport with a reputation for being more leisurely, there are many benefits.
Less Stress
While kids play golf their bodies release endorphins, which is the body’s natural mood-enhancing chemicals. After practicing or playing a round, players are left with a comfortable and relaxed mood.
Strong Mind
Playing the sport regularly can develop strong brain activity. Due to its strategic nature, players are forced to think multiple steps ahead to make sure they perform their best.
Good Sleep
Walking around on a golf course for hours not only expends energy but allows players to get a better night’s sleep.
Leads to Strong Bones
Time out in the sun (make sure to put on sunscreen first!) is a great opportunity to get vitamin D, which helps promote strong bone growth in kids.
Heart Healthy
It’s a great way to get in lots of cardio exercise. With courses ranging from 30-200 acres it takes a lot of walking to play a great game.
“Parents are looking for alternative options outside of contact sports,” said Dr. Matt Zaudtke, Sports Performance Specialist at Body One Physical Therapy. “Non-contact sports tend to see fewer injuries and still give children an opportunity to receive the benefits of participating on a youth sports team.”
Although golf is safer than some contact sports there are risks involved. Repetitive body movements, like swinging a golf club over and over, can develop a strain or injury to the shoulder, back, hips, or knees. However, participating in body conditioning, which includes strengthening muscles around the joints and practicing safe techniques, lowers the risk of strain. Before you, or your child, heads out to the golf course schedule an appointment with your Body One provider. With the performance ability testing, Body One will be able to predict potential injuries and implement training techniques to help prevent them from occurring.
Body One is locally owned and operated, with three locations serving Central Indianapolis: North Meridian, Fishers, and Zionsville. Our team of talented experts works with patients of all ages and activity levels and we’d love to help you or your child improve how you move! Whether you have a young golfer at home or you’re an older player yourself, we have the right provider to help you make progress. You can also take advantage of our free Virtual Golf Fitness Program located at our Virtual Programs page. Don’t wait to improve your game, start today, call or click now!
