Golf and Health: How Golf Benefits Your Body, Brain & Wellbeing

Most golfers think about the health benefits of golf in pretty simple terms. You walk. You get some fresh air. You spend time outdoors. But what if we're only scratching the surface of what golf can do for our health and wellbeing? In this episode of the **Golf Yourself Happy Podcast**, Golf Mindset Coach Kris Lynch is joined by **Professor Charlie Foster**, Professor of Physical Activity and Public Health at the University of Bristol, to explore the fascinating relationship between **golf, health, wellbeing and behaviour change**. Charlie has spent much of his career researching physical activity and advising on public health policy. He is now applying that expertise to golf and is currently writing a book on **Golf and Health**, featuring insights from some of the leading figures in the game. Together, Kris and Charlie explore the **“tyranny of the handicap”**, why the scorecard can be a poor measure of what we actually get from golf, and the many physical, mental and social benefits that can come from playing the game. They also dive into some fascinating research around **golf and brain health** - including what happens in our brains when we putt, why slow-motion swings can stimulate the brain, and how simply holding a golf club creates a surprisingly interesting physiological response. The conversation then turns to **behaviour change and habit formation**: why we're so attracted to quick fixes, why meaningful change takes time, and how small, consistent actions can ultimately compound into much bigger results. And perhaps most importantly, Kris and Charlie explore a question at the heart of Golf Yourself Happy: **If golf can give us so much more than a scorecard, how can we make sure we're actually getting the most from the game we love?** Whether you're interested in the health benefits of golf, curious about what happens in your brain when you play, or simply looking for a healthier and more enjoyable relationship with the game, this episode will encourage you to think differently about **what golf can give you**. ### In this episode: - Why the handicap can become a “tyranny” for golfers - The physical, mental and social benefits of playing golf - What happens in your brain when you play and practise - Why golf can be a powerful form of physical activity - How small habits can compound into meaningful change - Why enjoying the way we play golf matters as much as the score ### Key Takeaways ✔ Golf's value isn't just measured by your scorecard. ✔ Small, consistent habits can lead to significant results over time. ✔ Don't be seduced by quick fixes - meaningful change takes patience. ✔ Pay attention to everything you get from playing golf, not just what you shoot. ### Resources - Book a free 30-minute Golf Yourself Happy Coaching Discovery Call - Subscribe to Golf Yourself Happy podcast - Connect with Professor Charlie Foster (LinkedIn) - Listen to Charlie in conversation with Golf in Society Founder, Anthony Blackburn