Living near the golf course will improve your healthFitness and health15 October 2025, 12:00

Research consistently shows that living near green spaces is associated with a lower risk of heart disease and obesity. According to scientists, this can reduce stress hormones, promote exercise, and improve memory and attention.

One study found that every 10% increase in access to green and blue spaces was associated with a 7% decrease in the risk of depression and anxiety.

The game of golf also has proven health benefits. In 2023, an 18-hole round of golf (without the use of a stroller) was found to have the best cardiovascular benefits compared to an hour of brisk walking and an hour of Nordic walking. It especially reduces blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.

Other research suggests that playing golf is beneficial for cognitive function, especially in older adults. This sport also helps strengthen and develop social connections.

Overall, playing golf regularly can lead to a longer, healthier life. Scientists found that the risk of death was reduced by 40% in people who played golf regularly.

But there is an unpleasant nuance. A 2025 study found a possible link between Parkinson’s disease and proximity to golf courses. It is caused by exposure to pesticides. Some chemicals used in the maintenance of golf courses are neurotoxic. A number of other scientific papers link these to Parkinson’s disease.

A recent study found that people living within 1 mile of a golf course were 126% more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than those living 9 miles or further away. This risk was almost twice as high for those living in the same water source area as the field. Possible risk factors were air as well as groundwater contaminated with pesticides.

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