LADY LAKE, FL (352today.com) – At Harbor Hills Country Club, teeing off isn’t just about birdies and bogeys; it’s a chance to improve your health while enjoying one of the 352’s most scenic courses.

The Lloyd-Clifton-designed championship par-72 course, rated four stars by Golf Digest, offers seven sets of tees, extra-wide fairways lined with mature oaks, and rolling elevations that create a peaceful setting for players of all skill levels. But beyond the views and the challenge, there are also important wellness benefits.

According to a 2020 report from The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, research shows that playing golf can lead to improved physical and mental health, something to keep in mind for those considering their next round at Harbor Hills.

Here are three major health benefits associated with regular play:

1. Increased life expectancy

A study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports followed 300,000 Swedish golfers and found a 40 percent lower mortality rate among participants. That equated to a five-year boost in life expectancy – regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic background.

2. Disease prevention and management

Golf can also help prevent or manage chronic health conditions. Research from the University of Edinburgh, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, linked golf to reduced risks of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, dementia, depression, and certain cancers. The moderate physical activity involved, walking the course, swinging clubs, and being outdoors, helps keep players active and engaged.

3. Better mental health through social interaction

Golf is often played in small groups, which naturally fosters social connection. The Alzheimer’s Society notes that isolation increases dementia risk by 60 percent, and social activities like golf can help offset that. Regular interaction on the course also reduces stress and supports emotional well-being.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing way to stay fit or hoping to connect with friends while improving your game, Harbor Hills offers more than just a beautiful backdrop – it’s a setting that supports a healthier lifestyle.

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