Liz from Wentworth Lifestyle takes a look at the benefits for those like herself taking up golf in later life and offers a few helpful tips.

You know, there are definitely moments on the course when I'm knee-deep in yet another bunker or staring at my ball sitting stubbornly in the same spot that I think ‘yep, Wodehouse had a point’. But I can honestly say taking up golf later in life has been an absolute joy.

The wonderful thing about golf is that it welcomes players of all ages, whether you're picking up a club for the first time at eight or eighty-eight. While many golfers start young and some even pursue professional careers, countless others discover the sport later in life. In fact, the number of older beginners is growing as more people recognise golf's unique benefits.

The good thing it is gentle on the body compared to high-impact sports like running or tennis yet offers both physical activity and mental challenge.

So forget about that "you should have started younger" stuff. Golf's got room for everyone. Trust me - you're never too old to give it a shot.

Here are a few things that are good to know and some others you probably need to know

Golf welcomes all shapes and sizes

Golf doesn't care what you look like or how fit you are - the course welcomes everyone. Whether you're tall, short, carrying a few extra pounds, or working on your fitness, you can enjoy the game just like anyone else.

Golf is great for your physical & mental health

Golf is an excellent way to stay active, offering a solid workout while being easy on the body. Walking the course, swinging, and bending all help burn calories and keep you moving. It also boosts your cardiovascular fitness while lowering the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, stroke and cancer. It also helps improve strength and balance and since golf is a low-impact sport, it’s easier on your joints and muscles compared to many other activities.

Playing a round of golf is like a workout for your brain - it keeps you thinking, focusing and planning which helps keep your mind sharp as you age. Keeping your brain engaged is key to maintaining cognitive health, and golf is a fun way to do just that.

Put your maturity to work

What older golfers might lack in power, they often make up for in strategy. While younger players might be focused on crushing the ball into next week, mature golfers tend to play smarter, not harder.

Better emotional control comes with age

This could be debatable when it comes to the golf course but generally speaking, older players are less prone to extreme emotional swings and are less likely to lose their temper. This can work in your favour on the course, helping you stay calm and handle setbacks (but let’s be honest only some of the time!).

Golf is super social

Golf is a great way to make new friends, and keep in contact with old ones who are happy to listen to you waffling on about the amazing drive or brilliant putt on the 18th.

Tips from a new golfer...

Make sure you warm up. Golf uses parts of your body in particular your hips have to move more than perhaps they have in the past. I highly recommend having some session with a personal trainer to get your body moving and knowing your limitations.

" Doing mobility and strength training when taking up golf later in life will transform the way you play. You will move better, be stronger and be less likely to pick up injuries on the course' explains Steph Parkin a PT who specialises in helping with more mature people.

Make playing golf part of your routine. Its like anything the more you play the better you become (in theory!!!).

Your drive or shot doesn’t have to look perfect - as my wonderful coach Sian Jones says ‘there’s no photos on the scorecard’. As long as you can get the ball moving up the course and into the hole that’s all that matters.

Pick up your ball if you are playing badly and move to the next hole. New hole resets your mind.

Concentrate on your game and put your phone away.

Aim to get a handicap as soon as possible as it gives you something to try and play too and reduce.

Its worth investing in some lessons when you start whether group or individual.

Choosing the correct golf equipment for your age The right tools and technology can significantly help a golfer starting their golf journey later in life, or help keep that journey going.

Buy the right clothes so can play all year. There are lots of shops and outlets to purchase golf gear and as a side note golf clothes are very flattering on the figure.

Accept your limitations and enjoy being out there.

And finally, playing golf will even help you live longer! It may sound far-fetched, but it’s true - studies have shown that golfers live on average five years longer than non-golfers (and this was regardless of age, gender or socioeconomic status).

Whatever the reason, it’s a great motivator to get started on golf, no matter your age!