A prominent North East golf club is backing a national drive that aims to improve playing skills and boost body and mind wellbeing – in just five hours. (WIN A Round of golf for two – details below)
Brancepeth Castle Golf Club – ranked in the top 100 in Britain and Ireland – says the ‘Get into golf’ initiative can bring fast health benefits through participants being out and about on the fairways and greens.
The programme, rolled out by England Golf, the country’s governing body, provides five cut-price one-hour lessons in basic skills – and is designed to lead to greater participation in the sport.
But England Golf insists the scheme is not only capable of making better players of novices and those who have lost their touch, but can bring many and varied health benefits.
Research has shown that regular rounds can lead to weight loss, reduced blood pressure, and muscle toning – and can also cut stress and lengthen life expectancy by up to five years.
And the Durham club’s PGA professional David Fletcher agrees, having seen thousands of players over the years cover around 6,000 metres over 18 holes, losing more than 1,000 calories in the process.
David, 44, said: “There are huge health benefits to playing golf. I’ve seen enthusiasts return to the clubhouse physically rejuvenated and less stressed.
“Being out and about on a course for a number of hours can very much help you get in shape. Walking so far and the effort involved in playing burns an awful lot of calories.
“In turn, it can also bring many other health benefits, and it also a very social and competitive sport which constantly throws up new challenges.
“I would urge anyone who is looking for a greatly enjoyable and recreational way of staying fit to come along and try out ‘Get into golf’.”
The five sessions at Brancepeth Castle, usually in a group of up to six players, costs £25 per person, and equipment can be provided.
David will provide discounted follow on lessons upon request as either individual or group bookings, which are among a range of specialist playing packages being offered by the club, which was founded in 1924 and underwent a £160,000 improvement and upgrading programme in 2013.
New equipment was introduced at the club, which has a membership of around 700, including about 60 female golfers with handicaps.
Those who participate in ‘Get into golf’ can also enjoy practice-only membership at £75 per year which provides access to the clubhouse and practice facilities.
Limited beginner ‘Pay and Play’ costs £180, and can be followed up by full or five-day membership.
More information on ‘Get into Golf’ at Brancepeth Castle Golf Club is available by contacting David on 0191 378 4115 or via ‘Get into golf’ at getintogolf.org
More information on Brancepeth Castle Golf Club is on 0191 378 0075, by visiting www.brancepeth-castle-golf.co.uk, or at enquiries@brancepeth-castle-golf.co.uk.
