Scientists have provided new evidence to back up the argument for golf being allowed during lockdown.
Scientists have provided evidence and rational to support the claim that golf “should be permitted to return during the current phase of national lockdown”.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf revealed today that this new evidence has been added to a report and sent to the Prime Minister and Chief Medical Officers in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Following the the Government's “science first” approach to decision-making, the industry decided to ask independent scientists to validify the benefits of golf, and confirm if it could be played safely.
The report, titled "COVID-19 Secure Golf in the United Kingdom 2021", details how the four independent scientists found that COVID-19 transmission levels are likely to be extremely low whilst playing golf.
The scientists also confirmed that playing golf had many mental health benefits and that is also helped to support the immune system and assist the body in fighting disease.
Perhaps most notably, the study found that the game allows for greater social distancing opportunities than walking, running and cycling do.
Professor Charlie Foster, the epidemiologist and Principal Advisor on Physical Activity for Health to the four United Kingdom Chief Medical Officers, was one of the scientists who contributed to the report.
He said: “As the paper shows, golf can be played safely, and it should have a central role in the government’s thinking when it comes to helping people exercise now and as we come out of pandemic restrictions.
"I have therefore recommended that an expert in physical activity join the SAGE advisory group to ensure there is consistency across the sciences represented within it, and to provide advice on allowing physical activity to return as restrictions are reduced.”
Dr Andrew Murray, Consultant in Sport and Exercise Medicine at the University of Edinburgh, also concluded that golf is as safe to play, and as beneficial, as walking or running.
“Regular physical activity is one of the best things you can do for your health adding years to life, and having many mental and physical health benefits, be that through - for example - walking, cycling, running or golf," he commented.
"Golf’s careful planning, and compliance with COVID-19 tiers and regulation means its level of transmission from playing is likely to be extremely low, much lower than indoor space, or more populated outdoor areas.
"This is supported by the various scientific research the paper cites and I encourage those in SAGE and in government to review those as I am sure they will conclude that golf is similar to walking, running and cycling in being beneficial, and is safe to play with the relevant protocols in place.”
You can view the full report HERE.
