Barber to showcase the health benefits of golf

Former European Tour player Peter Barber is to give health workers in Cheshire the inside track on the benefits of playing golf.

The Didsbury PGA Professional will hold a free taster session in October as part of the Get into Golf campaign, which will offer an introduction to the sport and teach some of the skills required to play the game.

After the session, hospital workers will be offered the chance to take up a discounted coaching programme with Barber at Didsbury Golf Club.

This is the latest in a number of NHS staff activities that have been supported by the Cheshire County Golf Partnership, including a well-being day on the Wirral and the North West NHS Games.

The health benefits of golf – plus the fact that it can be played by people of all ages and abilities – make it an ideal sport to be enjoyed by work colleagues or individuals.

Research shows that walking around the golf course for a few hours is healthier than an intense session at the gym.

Playing a full 18 holes burns up to 900 calories as well as working your heart and lungs while being out in the fresh air and green spaces can help reduce your stress levels.

Clubs across Cheshire are offering free taster sessions and value-for-money coaching to make it easier than ever to get involved.

Craig Thomas, County Development Officer for the Cheshire Golf Partnership, said: “There’s no better sport for bringing people together and, with its winning combination of exercise, sporting skill and social interaction, golf is the perfect tonic for good health and happiness.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve never played golf or haven’t picked up a club since your school days or an almost-forgotten holiday. You can get started by taking advantage of the low cost taster sessions and beginner courses on offer across Cheshire.

“These sessions are fun, sociable and held in a relaxed atmosphere. They are available for mixed groups, women-only and families and are all run by PGA Professionals. You will receive a basic introduction to the game, together with information about club membership and follow-on coaching opportunities.”

For details of what is on offer at a club near you, visit getintogolf.org and look at the activity map or call 0800 118 2766.

For more details on the work of the Cheshire CGP visit www.cheshiregolfpartnership.com.