Why is golf GREAT for your mind and body?

At Leeds Golf Centre, we believe golf should be fun, welcoming, and good for your health – not just a traditional game played in fours. Whether you’re here for a quick 9 holes or going all-in for 18, you might be surprised at just how much of a workout you’re getting.

Let’s break it all down – calories burned, steps walked, muscles used and the many wellbeing benefits.

Calories Burned: It All Depends How You Play

9 Holes (Walking with bag):
Men: Around 600 – 750 calories
Women: Around 500 – 650 calories

18 Holes (Walking with bag):
Men: Up to 1,400 calories
Women: Around 1,200 calories

Using a trolley instead of carrying a bag? You’ll still burn plenty:
9 Holes: 500 – 600 (men), 400 – 550 (women)
18 Holes: 1,000 – 1,200 (men), 900 – 1,100 (women)

In a buggy? You’ll still walk a bit, but it’s more of a lighter workout:
9 Holes: 250 – 350 calories
18 Holes: 400 – 600 calories

Of course, these are average estimates and will vary based on pace, course terrain and individual body weight. But either way, golf gives you a brilliant low-impact way to burn energy – without the gym.

Average Steps: Rack Up Your Daily Total

Even just playing a short round will help you hit your step goal:
9 Holes from Yellow Tees: Approx. 6,000–7,000 steps
18 Holes from Yellow Tees: Approx. 12,000–15,000 steps
White Tees add extra: Expect a few hundred steps more per round

Golf is ideal if you’re aiming for that magic 10,000 steps a day – without it feeling like hard work.

Distance Walked: It’s More Than You’d Think

Even though you’re not sprinting between shots, you’ll still cover an impressive distance:
9 Holes: 4 – 5.5 km (2.5 – 3.5 miles)
18 Holes: 8 – 11 km (5 – 7 miles)

The variation depends on the layout of the course, your playing style, and how straight you hit the ball (no judgment here – we’ve all had days chasing wayward shots!)

Time Commitment: A Flexible Way to Get Active

We know life can be busy. That’s why golf works for everyone – whether you’ve got an hour or a whole afternoon.

9 Holes: 1.5 to 2 hours
18 Holes: 3.5 to 4.5 hours

And because you’re outside, moving, and socialising – it doesn’t feel like a workout. That’s part of the magic.

Golf = Full Body Workout

Golf may look like a leisurely game, but it works out more of your body than you’d expect:

Core: Stability and power in your swing
Glutes & Legs: Walking the course, maintaining balance
Back & Shoulders: Rotation, posture, and carrying your clubs
Forearms & Wrists: Grip strength and control through every shot

You’re not just working one muscle group – golf helps keep the whole body active and engaged, especially if you play regularly.

Mental Health & Social Benefits
At Leeds Golf Centre, we’re huge believers in the positive effects of the game – not just on your body, but on your mind.

Golf helps reduce stress. The fresh air, peaceful surroundings, and gentle pace give your brain the space it needs to reset. Even better, being active outdoors has been proven to help with anxiety and depression.

It also brings people together. Whether you’re playing with friends, joining a group lesson or meeting new people through our events, golf is a fantastic way to stay socially connected.

We’re proud to offer an inclusive, supportive space where everyone can enjoy these benefits – whatever your age or ability.

Why Golf is the Ultimate Lifestyle Sport

You don’t need to run marathons or lift heavy weights to stay healthy. Golf is a fantastic way to: *Burn calories *Strengthen your muscles *Get your steps in *Boost your mood *Enjoy quality social time *Reconnect with nature

And best of all? You can play at your own pace, in a welcoming environment. At Leeds Golf Centre, we’re proud to offer a modern kind of golf – relaxed, inclusive, and fun.

So whether you’re carrying your bag, using a trolley or rolling in a buggy – every round counts towards your physical and mental wellbeing.

Ready to Play?

Book your next round online, pop down for a lesson, or just come for a coffee and hit a few shots on the 19 bay, floodlit driving range. However you play it, we’re here to help you enjoy the game and feel your best.

Book a tee time online, call 0113 2886000 or email info@leedsgolfcentre.com

Or get in touch to learn more about lessons, group sessions and wellbeing golf.

Let’s keep moving, together – the Leeds Golf Centre way.

The Home of Modern Golf.