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It’s a question that has been debated for centuries: is golf a sport? Some people believe that it is, while others maintain that it is not. So, which is it? Let’s take a look at the arguments for and against golf as a sport to try to come to a conclusion.
Is Golf a Sport Debate
We’ve all been there. You’re at a party or out to dinner, or maybe just shooting the breeze with some friends, and the conversation somehow turns to sports. And then, out of nowhere, someone asks “Is golf a sport?” You freeze. You know this is a loaded question and one that could potentially spark a debate. So, here’s the official answer.
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Is Golf a Sport: Dictionary Definition
In order to be considered a sport, an activity must meet certain criteria. It must require physical exertion, for one. And it must also pit participants against each other in a race to see who can complete the task at hand the fastest.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a sport as “an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment.” Based on this definition, it would appear that golf does indeed qualify as a sport.
After all, golf does involve physical exertion. You have to swing a club hundreds of times over the course of a round and skill (it takes years of practice to develop a good golf swing). In addition, golf is certainly an activity in which people compete against one another.
There are some people who would argue that golf is not a sport because it does not require the same level of athleticism as other activities such as football, basketball, or soccer. These people maintain that golf is more of a game than a sport because it can be played without getting winded or breaking into a sweat. However, they there is just as much athleism required to make a ball end up in the cup!
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Golf is Relaxing (Most of the Time)
Being on the course surrounded by nature can be very therapeutic. There’s nothing quite like sinking a 20-foot putt to calm your nerves. But it can also be frustrating at times. Everyone has those moments were they just can’t make it happen on the golf course. You plan for the ball to go straight and instead you get a bad hook. Even when things are going bad, it’s still better than being stuck in the house all day!
One of the nice features about golf is that you can make it as active or inactive as you like. Meaning, you have lots of options! For more activity, can carry your own clubs and walk the course. Or, you can have a caddy carry your clubs and walk the golf course. For a more inactive approach, you can ride in a golf cart with your golf clubs.
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Conclusion: Is Golf a Sport?
So, is golf a sport? Based on the definition provided by Merriam-Webster, it would appear that the answer is yes!
Golf can be a great way to get some exercise and fresh air while spending time with friends or colleagues. At the end of the day, whether or not you believe that golf is a sport is subjective. What matters most is that you enjoy playing the game.
