After a frustrating start, Elizabeth Littley, 64, from the Midlands, explains why playing golf makes her feel happy and healthier.
Golfing is fun, it keeps me fit and it’s very addictive
‘Getting into the swing of things’
I’m standing on the tee block, driver in my hand, waiting for the fairway to clear before I take my shot. I adjust my stance, posture and grip and slowly begin my back swing. I hear a whoosh as I accelerate through the downswing, followed by a zing as I hit the ball. My ball soars through the air towards the pin and lands in a perfect spot in the middle of the fairway, only a few feet from the green. In that moment, nothing else matters, except for the feeling of exhilaration after executing a great shot.
I love playing golf. It provides me with a sense of achievement and lifts my mood. It also keeps me both physically and mentally fit. I only started playing golf in 2016, aged 57, when my then husband retired, as
I didn’t want to become a golf widow!
Up until that point, I’d always preferred the fast pace of body combat, body pump and aerobics. I used to think golf was a slow, boring game, exclusively for men. I could never understand why people were so passionate about it. To me, it seemed like such a pointless waste of time ambling around a course, trying to get a ball into a hole.
My husband was shocked when I announced I wanted to learn to play. He was convinced I’d quit after a couple of weeks. Nevertheless, he bought me a cheap set of ladies’ golf clubs and my journey began.
Initially, I found it daunting learning all the different shots, the rules and the etiquette involved. However, after a bit of a bumpy start (I jarred my wrist numerous times when I hit the ground instead of the ball), I finally mastered the basics and fell in love with the game.
Once I was hooked, I realised
I needed to build my skills. So, I booked some lessons with a PGA player. I quickly discovered that my large bust was a problem when he told me: ‘You need to wear a tight bra to minimise your boobs, as they’re getting in the way of your swing!’
At first, I played on the 9-hole par-3 course. Eventually, after I became more confident and my game improved, I ventured on to the 18-hole golf course. Initially, I was worried about taking so many shots to reach the green, but everyone I played with was very encouraging and often gave me tips.
Life then changed in 2017 when
I made the decision to divorce my husband of 20 years following a turbulent four years of marriage.
I went to live with my brother in the Wirral for eight months and, sadly, during this period, I didn’t play any golf.
On my return to the Midlands,
I started to play again with my sister-inlaw and brother-in law. In 2019, I met my partner, John, who is also a keen golfer, and we play most weekends and when we’re away on holiday.
On average, I play two to three times a week and really enjoy it for so many reasons. I’ve always been an active person and golf keeps me fit, as I walk around five to six miles per round.
It’s great for cardiovascular fitness, burns calories and increases flexibility, strength and co-ordination.
Golf is also a thinking game and requires a lot of concentration, which enhances your brain health and also relieves stress. I find it relaxing and calming to walk round the course, as I’m surrounded by stunning countryside, streams and wildlife. Plus, I enjoy the social interaction, which is good for the mind.
I intend playing golf for many years to come. Although it can be challenging and sometimes frustrating, it’s fun, keeps me fit, is very addictive and, most importantly, makes me happy.