New research in England has found there is substantial interest in playing forms of golf but there is a perception that it is a sport that’s only played by people over the age of 40.
Nearly nine out of 10 Britons (87 percent) believe golf is ‘exclusively’ played by those over 40, according to new research by England Golf.
The nationwide study reveals significant misconceptions preventing broader participation in golf. Cost remains a major obstacle, with 38 percent of respondents citing expense as a barrier. Additional concerns include lack of access (11 percent) and perceptions of golf as a “manly sport” (four percent).
Despite these hurdles, interest in golf is substantial. Forty percent of respondents said they would love to try golf for casual meet-ups with friends, 24 percent view it as a great exercise opportunity and 19 percent believe it could help relieve stress.
The research indicates many Britons have already dipped their toes into golf-adjacent activities, with 65 percent having tried crazy golf, 51 percent mini golf, and 41 percent pitch and putt. Thirteen percent would even be willing to travel over 21 miles for a chance to play.
The poll also explores what would make golf clubs feel more inclusive. Nearly half of respondents (46 percent) suggested family days to help parents introduce children to the sport early. Another 41 percent recommended partnerships between golf clubs and schools, while 33 percent advocated for events specifically aimed at women.
The research highlights numerous benefits recognised by Britons, including spending time outdoors (63 percent), improving general health (46 percent), and increased socialising opportunities (39 percent).
“The good news for Britons is that these types of inclusive sessions already exist and are happening all across the country,” says Ben White, a spokesperson for England Golf. “From family-friendly taster events to women-focused coaching sessions, our clubs and facilities are actively working to make golf more accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender or background.”
Meanwhile, one Devon mother’s remarkable story demonstrates how the sport can offer unexpected healing and renewal after serious health challenges.
When Lanie stepped onto the driving range at Topsham Golf Academy, it represented more than just fulfilling a new year’s resolution; it marked another victory in her ongoing recovery journey.
In 2017, Lanie underwent surgery to remove a borderline serous tumour along with her left ovary. The experience transformed her relationship with physical activity and set her on a path that eventually led to discovering golf’s therapeutic benefits.
“After my surgery, I made a promise to myself to embrace activities I’d always wanted to try without letting my body hold me back,” says Lanie. “Golf was something I’d never seriously attempted, and it’s become unexpectedly therapeutic in my recovery journey.”
As part of England Golf’s ‘Get into Golf’ programme, Lanie completed a five-week course guided by PGA professionals. For this working mother of a four-year-old son, finding time presented challenges, but the structured format proved ideal.
“I couldn’t attend weekday sessions due to work and childcare commitments, so I opted for Saturday sessions while my husband cared for our son,” she explains. “The five-week timeframe was perfect for learning the fundamentals while balancing my responsibilities.”
What began as a simple desire to join her husband at the driving range evolved into something more meaningful. “There’s something incredibly calming and restorative about focusing on your swing and watching the ball soar,” Lanie reflects. “It’s become a form of mindfulness that connects my physical and mental wellbeing.
“I want to set an example for my son that health challenges don’t define what you can achieve. Whether it’s golf or any other activity, I hope he sees that the options are limitless.”
Ben White notes: “Stories like Lanie’s perfectly illustrate why we organise ‘Get into Golf Week’. Golf offers benefits that extend far beyond the physical, it can be genuinely therapeutic and life-changing for many people.”
Since moving to Devon in 2021, Lanie has embraced numerous outdoor activities, but golf has taken on special significance in her wellness routine. Her interest was partly inspired by an interview she conducted with professional golfer Gemma Dryburgh for SOCIALight, a magazine Lanie produced focusing on women in sport.
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