You have a great deal of control over the amount of calories you burn playing golf. You can choose an easy-paced game, ride in a cart and burn the minimum numbers of calories. Or you could double the number of calories you burn by carrying your own clubs and walking. The actual calories burned during golf also are affected by body weight, intensity of workout, conditioning level and metabolism.

The Activity Profile of NutriStrategy Nutrition and Fitness derived the following caloric data on research from the Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine:

Advantages

To be successful at golf, a person needs to develop the same qualities of a healthful, exercise regimen. "While it may be difficult to motivate some people to stretch or begin strength training, telling them it may lower their handicap may be just the ticket to get them to head to the gym," according to ACE. Keeping fit to improve your golf game wil help you come closer to par, while increasing lean body weight, reducing body fat, lowering blood pressure, and increasing strength and flexibility.

Disadvantages

Unless you are running between holes, this game is not challenging enough for aerobic gains, and riding in carts reduces the health advantages even more.

Golfing requires a course, clubs and other gear, green fees and additional expenses, which can make regular play cost-prohibitive for many players. However, playing on inexpensive public courses and buying or borrowing used golf balls and equipment can help. (Experienced golfers often update their clubs frequently and may have a set or two stashed away in their garage. It is good to borrow a set, at least until you find out what you like or dislike in your golf clubs.)

Who should participate?

Golf is ideal for individuals of nearly all ages and fitness levels. Tiger Woods is said to have started at age 2, but for most people, it is best to start when they are both interested and are able to be coached. "This may be as early as age 12 to 14 but could be up through the early 70s," says Dale Huff, registered dietitian, certified personal trainer and ACE spokesperson. "Individuals with chronic lower back pain, some kinds of shoulder injuries and spinal problems, and certain types of arthritis should only participate as evaluated by their physician," Huff adds.

What about lessons? It is highly recommended to take a few golf lessons. Experts suggest looking for a professional who has worked with athletes, has experience in golf and is certified as a "personal trainer" or a "strength coach." Golf programs taught by physical therapists or athletic trainers also can be beneficial. Many people start simply by asking their golf pro to recommend a good trainer.

Professional golf teachers - The best golfers do not necessarily make the best teachers. A professional at golf also should have excellent communication skills and include golf as part of a complete fitness program.

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