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August is National Golf Month!
Golf is a powerhouse for both mental and physical health and not just for pros in plaid pants. Golf has a special appeal for firefighters whether it’s about unwinding after stressful & busy shifts, bonding with your crew, members from another agency, or just enjoying the outdoors. It’s not uncommon for departments to organize charity tournaments or for both in-service and retired firefighters to hit the greens as a wellness habit.
The benefits exceed far beyond the camaraderie or beauty of golf courses. Between sirens and shifts, there’s a quiet rhythm waiting on the fairway. You can restore inner and outer Strength – One Swing at a time!
Mental Health Benefits
Stress Reduction. The calm, natural setting of a golf course helps lower cortisol levels and promotes relaxation. Mindfulness & Focus. Golf requires concentration and presence, making it a form of moving meditation. Social Connection. Whether you’re teeing off with friends or joining a local league, golf fosters meaningful relationships that support emotional well-being. Resilience & Patience. The game teaches you to handle frustration, bounce back from setbacks, and embrace the challenge—skills that translate off the course. Sense of Achievement. From sinking a long putt to improving your score, golf offers small wins that bost confidence and self-esteem.
Physical Health Benefits
Cardiovascular Fitness. Walking 4–5 miles during a round (especially without a cart) gets your heart pumping and improves circulation. Muscle Strength & Flexibility. Swinging a club engages your core, arms, and legs, enhancing strength and mobility. Balance & Coordination. Golf improves stability and motor skills, which are especially valuable as we age. Vitamin D & Immune Support. Time outdoors means soaking up sunlight, which helps regulate mood and supports bone health. Longevity. Studies show golfers may live up to five years longer than non-golfers.
If you’re looking for a sport that blends nature, strategy, and wellness, golf might just be your golden ticket. Whether you’re a total beginner or just looking to make your time on the course more rewarding, here are a few starter tips and ideas to tee up your golf journey:
Getting Started with Golf
Begin with a lesson or clinic. A local golf pro can teach the fundamentals—grip, stance, swing—and help you avoid common beginner frustrations. Rent clubs first. Many courses offer rental sets, so you can try things out without committing to expensive gear upfront. Start at the driving range. It’s low-pressure and a great way to build confidence before heading onto the course. Try a par-3 or executive course. Shorter and less intimidating, these courses are ideal for practice and fun.
Make It Enjoyable & Relaxing
Bring a friend or join a league. Golf is more fun with good company, plus, some leagues offer relaxed formats like best-ball or scrambles. Listen to music while you practice. Some ranges or personal devices allow low-volume tunes to keep your vibe mellow. Celebrate small wins and count great shots or personal improvements – not just your score.
“The good news is the golf ball doesn’t know how old you are.”
Sam DiGiovanna is a 40-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department, and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He is Director at Large with the California State Firefighters Association, Associate Director for the California Training Officers Association and a consultant for www.Lexipol.com