Say the word golf and more often than not, people would think of the word green. This is only understandable since the game is being played in an outdoor setting. The greenery of the golf course makes up the perfect picture of a playing field. When you compare golf to other sports, it stands out because they do not utilize a standard playing area. This means that unlike other famous ball games, the playing field varies when you move from one location to another. Their designs are unique, depending upon the preference of the land developer or course designer. Golf courses can either be composed of either 9 or 18 holes.

Competing players are more popularly known as golfers and they use various kinds of clubs in hitting a ball into a hole. The objective is simple. Try to hit the ball into the hole using the lowest possible number of strokes. It can be played either as an individual or team sport, depending on the rules of the competition.

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?

The game begins when the player hits the ball from the teeing box. The initial stroke that is carried out is called as a drive. Basically, this is a long distance shot made in order for the ball to travel down the fairway. When the ball has come to a halt, the golfer may strike it again with either of the following options: a lay-up, an approach or a green. The finishing stroke is called a putt and it is done when the ball is really near the hole. This is usually a very exciting part of the game.

The entire process may sound easy. Unfortunately, if you are beset by potential problems like a rough, or areas of long grass, a bunker and the notorious water hazard, you will certainly have a challenging task ahead. Add to that the heavy wind, the rains and for professional players, the cheering and jeering of the crowd and you have one hell of a circus.

Golfers can either walk or drive in motorized carts all over the course. They can go about their game alone or with their friends and helpers. Typically, a caddy accompanies the player. What they do is carry and manage the golfer’s equipment and give them sound advice on how to play the game in a better way.

A lot of golfers sport a simple top paired with a pair of cotton shorts and a sun visor. This is a no-frills get up. When the rainy season comes, one can don for a pair of comfortable pants and thick jacket to keep warm. A good cap may also be used to protect the head from a light drizzle. There are those who like to be prepared and bring an umbrella for cover.

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.