ABSTRACT
Health has been defined on page one of the constitution of the 1946 World Health Organization as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’ (World Health Organization, 1946). Reviews have highlighted that evidence is consistent and growing that golf is associated with overall positive effects on physical health and mental well-being and likely has a positive impact on longevity, principally through the physical activity that golfers accrue while out on the course (Walker Research Group, 2011; Murray et al., 2016). While golf has been associated with extra years of life (Farahmand et al., 2009; Coate & Schwenkenberg, 2013), improved lipid profiles (Palank & Hargreaves, 1990; Parkkari et al., 2000) and better cardiovascular and respiratory health (Hoberty & Craig, 1983; Weisgerber et al., 2008; Murray et al., 2016), health problems can occur. These include an increased susceptibility to skin cancer and a moderate risk of musculoskeletal injury (Cabri et al., 2009).
