Early Spring has finally arrived and as the sun touches the Earth with sharper rays, we Michiganders start to emerge from winter storage. Our coats are swapped out for slightly thinner coats, as blades of grass become slightly thicker. Flowers and wildlife will soon be in full bloom and with it emerges a unique creature on the hunt for eagles, birdies, and alpha status in their respective packs. It is time for the rise of the Great Michigan Golfer.

Golfers are growing in numbers every year and as a card-carrying member of the cult, it is easy for me to see why. For those driven by the spirit for competition, the game is an unsolvable Rubik’s Cube where as soon as one side of your game becomes aligned, the other snaps out of order. But that great shot that one time will keep you coming back for life. For others, Golf offers a chance to spend some time in the sun sharing stories with loved ones. Those who can find the balance between the two are on their way to reaching Golf enlightenment. However, two-thirds of all Golfers are missing the full experience when they choose to ride in a cart.

Walking 9 holes will add 5,000 to 6,000 steps or 2-3 miles to your daily count which unlocks health benefits like weight loss, reduced cardiovascular disease risk, reduced stress, improved leg strength and endurance, and increased stamina. Walk 18 holes or play multiple times a week, and watch your overall health start to transform.

Being a healthier person will improve your performance and lower your scores, no doubt. But walking the course offers another competitive advantage- Course Management. While on foot you will gain a greater understanding of the hole’s layout, obstacles, elevation changes, and wind conditions allowing you to plan your shot and make smarter decisions. Absorbing the architecture of a course helps scores and brings a greater appreciation to the golfing experience.

Take in the natural beauty of the course and respect the ground you are on a little more by walking. Those social golfers who are here for a good time will learn that being on foot makes for better group chats as you walk from hole to hole as a group of four rather than speeding off as twos.

This year make an effort to dust off that old push cart during your Spring cleaning and splurge on a pair of good shoes because oh yeah, you will be saving money too. Be sure to bring water and pack light.