Walking Your Next Round

While golf carts were first introduced in the 1930's, they didn't actually become popular until the 1960's. Considering that the game of golf began as early as the mid-1400's, this makes golf carts a relatively new addition to the game. For centuries the only way to play was to walk.

We've heard golfers say that rounds played in a golf cart aren't as satisfying as when they walk the course. Could it be the same difference as playing half-court vs. full-court basketball? Many golfers swear by walking and here's why.

Always Have the Right Clubs

If you're playing during wintertime in most places, or during overseeding, or in rainy weather, most courses won't let you drive on the fairway. When this is the case, you oftentimes have to take a guess as to which club you might need. If you get to your ball only to realize you have the wrong club, now you have to decide whether to wing it or walk all the way back to the cart. Hitting a shot you're not comfortable with just to keep pace of play or avoid the extra walk can put you in a bad headspace for the rest of the game. Walking ensures that you always have the right club with you.

Rhythm Between Shots

Riding in a golf cart may take some of the labor out of the game, but that saved energy certainly isn't guaranteed to lower your score. It's hard to stay focused when you're constantly hurrying up to wait on the golf course. Pace of play is an issue for everyone, but riding in a cart may amplify the problem. Riders will inevitably move faster than walkers, leading to longer wait times between shots. During this time, your back may tighten up and your mind may wander.

Walking allows you time to analyze your last shot and ultimately put it behind you. If you're having a bad round, walking might give you a chance to breathe and reset before your next shot.

Group Interaction

When riding in a cart, it can be difficult to interact with the rest of your group. Golfers usually end up spending time only with their cart partner rather than the whole foursome. When everyone is walking, you end up with more time to socialize and interact between shots.

Cost

We already know that golf is an expensive sport. Walking instead of riding can save $15 to $30 per golf round. Even if you only play once per month, this adds up to $180-$360/year. That could be a new golf club, golf bag, golf shoes, or even an extra round or two for that year.

Exercise

While modern day golf courses are longer and more challenging than they used to be, we can't think of a more enjoyable way to get your steps in. Walking 3-6 miles, especially if there are slopes, is great exercise. Whether you carry your bag or use a pull cart, those extra calories burned walking can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve balance and coordination, and even improve your mood.

So which is right for you? Walk or ride? When it comes down to it, your answer probably lies in your intention for your round. Are you trying to beat your previous score on that course or are you trying to beat your previous number of beers you had on that course? Either way, enjoying the experience is the most important thing.