Golf

Yes, some of you may say that I am crazy and others may not call it a 'sport', but let me tell you, there is nothing like golf. Not only is it a sport for a lifetime, it is also physically and mentally challenging and different every day. (http://www.revolutionhealth.com/blogs/drscherger/is-golf-exercise-15403).

Most of the sports that the average amateur enjoy are acts of motion. Once you understand the jest of the activity you can reach a reasonable standard and have a good time. I like to compare it to learning how to ride a bike. After learning the skill the activity becomes natural, one can retreat into a meditative state and let your physical capability take over. If you are a runner or biker you may understand what I am referring to. (Please keep in mind that I am talking about the amateur sportsman, and not profesionals that refine every movement to the core). I love this about these activities and the 'high' after gives one the energy to get up each day every day and get into 'the zone' again.

But, nothing compares to golf.

Golf does not only physically challenge you (that is if you play the 'real' game, by carrying your bag, keeping an active pace, walking 18 holes, and limiting the 19th hole activities), but mentally as well. You have to THINK. You have to be sure of yourself and you have to believe. The game itself is relatively simple. Once you get over the first barrier and learn the key movements of the game you have the ability to start enjoying a game that has stood the test of time.

The key challenge ameteur golfers face today is to believe that the act of hitting a small white ball to a specific target is in fact not such a difficult task. You have to believe you can. The moment a negative thought crosses your mind it is extremely difficult to play the stellar game we all sought after. Once you learn to clear your mind of all thoughts, focus on two things only, namely the ball and the target, and 'see' how you hit that target spot-on before you actually hit the ball, you have won 50% of the battle. The mind can be the golfers best friend and yet be the most formiddable opponent to a good golf game.

So go ahead and focus on controlling your thoughts on the golf course. Give it a shot. You have nothing to lose. Maybe you will also then be able to enjoy those lovely sunsets on the 18th hole of a signature course without wanting to throw your clubs in the pond next to the green. You may just be able to share the feeling and memories so many others around the world and accross the centuries have lived and died for.

What do you think about golf?