As spring approaches and energy levels begin to rise, thoughts often turn to new hobbies and time spent outdoors. Having boomed during the pandemic and enjoyed a consistent rise in participation ever since, golf could be one way to learn a new skill and enjoy the benefits of movement, mental wellbeing and better physical health.
Whether you’re looking to improve your game, meet new people, or simply enjoy more time outside, Rhiannon Thomas, Assistant Manager, Sales, Marketing, Events & Revenue from The Dartmouth Hotel, Golf and Spa, reveals just some of the benefits of taking a golf membership in 2026.
“Golf has social, community and health benefits that go way beyond the fairway and clubhouse,” begins Rhiannon, herself a PGA professional. “Joining a golf club means you become part of a community, can find ways improve your mental wellbeing and have access to a lifestyle that encourages leisure, time outdoors and new friendships.”
Improved Mental Wellbeing
Most people would agree that getting outside has huge benefits to mental health. It helps to reduce stress, encourage positivity and fire up the body’s natural rhythm and defences.
Golf adds a new dimension to this; it’s not just your body that is switched on; it’s your mind too.
Golf Monthly reported that the mental stimulation provided by the game can help to counter mental health problems, from depression to degenerative conditions, and that golfers live an average of five years longer than non-golfers.
Being on the golf course adds a sense of focus to time spent outdoors. It’s a way of being present and living in the moment. And imagine how many steps you will do!
Better Physical Health
It’s obvious really, but playing golf regularly can improve stamina, cardiovascular fitness, balance, muscle and core strength, especially when combined with other activities such as yoga, swimming, and resistance training. It’s an all-over body workout.
A good golf swing will strengthen muscles and improve flexibility throughout your body. Additionally, as you walk the course each week, you might find you have more energy and notice improvements to your overall health.
Fresh air and exercise, a winning combination.
Friendships and a Social Community
Golf is a social game; it’s leisurely and enjoyable, and people of all ages and abilities can play together. If your skill levels don’t match on the course, you can still seize the opportunity to learn and improve your game, and for most golfers, the social benefits extend beyond the final green. Whether it’s meeting for a coffee after a game, lunch on the terrace with newfound friends, or a drink or two in the clubhouse bar, there are many social opportunities that foster new friendships or strengthen existing ones.
Access to Resort Facilities
Some golf memberships, including ours, grant access to the wider resort for golf members, including the leisure club, spa areas, dining, and hotel amenities, meaning the benefits of golf membership extend well beyond the course. Many of our members dedicate a day to their visit. What could be better than playing a round of golf or two, followed by a relaxing afternoon in the spa, and finishing with a delicious meal while enjoying those stunning scenic views?
At The Dartmouth Hotel, Golf & Spa, there are two exceptional courses to enjoy with unrivalled views of the Devon countryside. The property’s Championship course was featured in Today’s Golfers List of the UK’s Top 100 Golf Resorts, enhancing its prestige when playing on an award-winning course. There is a range of memberships to suit every budget and lifestyle – from off-peak tee times to full access to all of the resort’s top spa and leisure facilities — making golf easy to pick up, accessible and beneficial to all.
Find out more at https://thedartmouthhotel.co.uk/golf-membership/ Golf Enquiries: 01803 712011 or email: proshopoffice@thedartmouthhotel.co.uk