INTERNATIONAL CONSENSUS ON GOLF & HEALTH
The 2018 International Consensus on Golf and Health highlights what we know about golf and health, and what actions by players, facilities, the industry and decision makers can maximise health gains from golf, and minimise health issues.
Global Consensus for Golf in the Race to Tackle Physical Inactivity
A global consensus amongst leaders in public health, public policy and sport backs golf in the race to tackle physical inactivity and the prevention of a range of non-communicable disease (NCD) including heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer of the breast and colon…
The First International Congress on Golf & Health
Across the 17th and 18th of October 2018, The First International Congress on Golf and Health will take place and is jointly presented by the International Society for Physical Activity and Health (ISPAH) and the Golf and Health Project, and sponsored by The R&A.
Consisting of a Breakfast Meeting as part of the 2018 ISPAH Conference, a Reception at the Houses of Parliament, and the Golf and Health Scientific Meeting at High Elms Golf Club, the event will be an unprecedented inclusion of a sport within the global Physical Activity agenda.
For updates throughout the two days search #GolfandHealth on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
The Golf & Health Scientific Meeting
Hosted by High Elms Golf Club, the Golf and Health Scientific Meeting brought together a wide variety of research specialists from around the world to share the incredible, cutting-edge research they are undertaking in the fields of physical activity, medical interventions and social prescribing, dementia and Parkinson’s research, rehabilitation, and community engagement, all with a focus on the health benefits that golf can give.
Find out more by searching #GolfandHealth on Twitter.
Too Many People Missing Out On Health Benefits of Golf, Says Expert Panel
Too many people are missing out on the health benefits of golf, says a panel of international experts in a consensus statement, which aims to widen participation in the sport.
The evidence suggests it may not only be good for mind and body, but also for a long life, says the statement, published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
ACTIONS
These key actions can improve health for golfers, and help promote physical activity, and golf.
FOR THE GOLF INDUSTRY
- Build on existing initiatives to promote inclusivity and develop environments and price structures that will be attractive to everyone
- Develop a culture that will inspire more women and girls to play golf
- Make every effort to promote equality and diversity, and boost accessibility
- Promote sustainability through wildlife conservation and by restricting the use of water, energy, and pesticides
- Provide additional facilities at clubs, such as a gym, walking routes, crèches and improve the focus on health and safety, with the provision of healthy foods, defibrillators, and speed limiters on golf carts, for example
FOR GOLFERS
- Should aim to play for 150 minutes/week, or do less, but couple golf with other physical activity, and walk the course rather than ride a golf cart
- Do warm-up/strengthening exercises to cut the risk of injury and use sun-cream and wear collared shirts/blouses to minimise the risk of skin cancer
- Make everyone feel welcome
FOR POLICY & DECISION MAKERS
- Promote the benefits of regular physical activity, including golf, for people of all ages, genders, and income brackets
- Promote the specific health enhancing aspects of golf
- Support diversity, equality, and sustainability
- Work with industry and national associations to boost take up of the sport, particularly in groups where physical activity levels are low
- Work with industry and regulatory bodies to get golf included in the Paralympics
Golf & Health Week to Highlight How the Sport Helps Wellbeing
19th March 2019
A dedicated campaign to raise awareness of the health benefits of golf for people of all ages and abilities is to tee off next month...
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Golf and Parkinson’s Disease – Anthony Blackburn & Golf in Society
18th December 2018
Creator of GOLF IN SOCIETY, Anthony Blackburn, has set out to improve the lives of the ageing population introducing them to golf's health & wellbeing benefits...
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Golf and Parkinson’s Disease – Dr Anne-Marie Wills
17th December 2018
Dr Anne-Marie Wills, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital, has been conducting research into the effects of activity on Parkinson’s Disease patients...
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