The American Heart Association recommends that everyone reach a minimum of 30 minutes of some form of cardiovascular exercise 5 to 7 days per week.

Golf, although not thought of a strenuous activity, requires a higher level of fitness than most people would think.

Firstly, in a single round, a golfer will swing an estimated average of 300 swings (including practice swings). And they may even walk eight thousand yards which is the equivalent of four to five miles.

Secondly, swinging a club over and over again twists the neck, back, shoulders and arms unnaturally. So the physical stress loads become substantial, therefore overall fitness and endurance play a critical role in the game.

Thirdly, stronger, fitter, more flexible athletes hit a ball further and straighter. They have better touch around the greens. They also respond better under pressure, in the closing holes, for example, then do their weaker counterparts.

Add bursts of ‘cardio’ exercises into your daily routine to improve your endurance, pump your heart and get your golf form in shape.