When the word golf is mentioned, people automatically think of the word green. It is, after all, quite appropriate since this sport is played outdoors amidst the lush greenery of the outdoor lawn or golf course. A golf course is not a standardized playing area. This means to say that unlike most ball games, the playing field differs from one area to another. They are uniquely designed and consist of either 9 or 18 holes.
The players are more fondly called as golfer and they employ different kinds of clubs in trying to hit a ball into a hole. The goal is just like any other ball game, which is to make the ball enter the hole. This should be achieved using the lowest possible number of strokes. One can play by his lonesome or he can invite his peers for a team effort, depending on the situation.
One round of golf consists of 9 or 18 holes, played in a particular order. Typically, one round involves 18 holes. Unfortunately, if you are playing on a nine-hole course, you have to complete two successive nine-hole rounds in order to accomplish the task. This sounds like a tall order, right?
A game begins when the golfer hits the ball from the starting point which is called a teeing box. The term drive is used when a long distance shot is made so that the ball can travel down the fairway. After the ball has come to a stop, the golfer may strike it again with either of the following strikes: a lay-up and approach or a green. When the ball reaches the nearest area near the hole, a putt is carried out.
Do you think the whole process sounds uncomplicated? The answer may be a yes or a no, depending on the overall condition. The drawback is if you will encounter major obstacles like a rough, or areas of long grass, a bunker and the notorious water hazard. They are dreaded because they pose a very challenging time for any player. Then there is also the probability that a heavy wind and a short rain can interfere with your concentration. For professional players, they still have to consider the cheering and jeering of the crowd.
Since the course is very wide, golfers can either walk or drive in motorized carts. They have the option of playing alone or with their circle of friends. Most of the time, a caddy accompanies the player. They have the significant task of carrying the clubs as well as other equipments of the golfer.
Golfers usually don a preppy cotton shirt paired with a pair of lightweight shorts. They include the ubiquitous sun visor as a protection. When the cold season arrives, they usually opt for a pair of slacks and thick jacket to keep them from feeling chilly. For those who foresee a light drizzle, a cap is brought along in preparation. The more health conscious ones bring a sturdy umbrella for better protection.
There are many advantages of playing golf. The health reasons include its flexibility factor. Since swinging allows one to stretch, his overall flexibility improves. The same is true for his cardiovascular workout because the heart pumps blood to all parts of the body in an efficient manner if one walks fast from one place to another. Moreover, the refreshing air in the course can bring a calming effect especially to those who are stressed out from all the tension experienced in the office.
