Readers probably remember that while I am a golf blogger by night, I also work in healthcare during the day. Walking and cardiovascular exercise is something I take very seriously, so when the Hospital for Special Surgery informed me of their newest campaign aligned with the Ryder Cup, I had to write a quick post. As the official hospital of The PGA of America, HSS is encouraging spectators to get moving by giving away pedometers as part of the “Let’s Move on Course!” initiative starting next week. A total of 25,000 pedometers will be given away with a limited supply distributed each day at Medinah Country Club on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition, fans that scan their ticket at the “Let’s Move on Course!” booth or create a “walking” account and track their steps at HSS.edu/golf can enter to win an autographed pin flag by Ryder Cup Captain Davis Love III. 

Fans can pick up a free pedometer at the “Let’s Move on Course!” booth at the main entrance of Medinah Country Club and track their steps during the event, or at the Get Golf Ready Family Fun Zone held Sept. 23 (Sunday) at Meadowdale Park in Dundee Township, Ill.

While golf may appear to be a leisurely pursuit and not a means of exercise, health and fitness experts advocate that taking 10,000 steps a day – the equivalent of walking 18 holes – improves overall fitness and helps with weight control. The game has numerous other mental and physical health benefits, including:

·         Cardio: Golf exercises your heart, and walking the course can burn up to 300 calories an hour.

·         Muscles: Carrying your clubs builds muscle mass and increases muscle tone in your arms and shoulders.

·         Sunshine: Playing in the sunshine gives the body Vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones and overall health.

·         Fresh Air: Golf with a cart provides fresh air for improved circulation and can burn more than 800 calories per round.

·         Sleep: Exercise wears off excess energy, which helps you fall asleep faster and sleep through the night.

·         Social: Golf is meant to be played with family and friends and can keep your mind at ease with enjoyable social opportunities. 

For more information on Play Golf America and “Let’s Move on Course!” consumers can visit PlayGolfAmerica.com and HSS.edu/golf.