Adaptive golf is golf made accessible for everyone. This involves a generally complimentary program with regular open clinics for inclusive instruction from supportive coaches, modified equipment ranging from lighter clubs to seated hitting devices, and formats designed to be encouraging. It accommodates a wide range of physical, cognitive and sensory needs, ensuring every individual can participate at his or her own pace.
More Than Just a Game: The Benefits of Adaptive Golf
Golf as a sport is truly having its moment. The game is sustaining its popularity among all age groups because it has become more accessible than ever. People are playing for the fun of the game and experiencing golf in different ways.
Adaptive golf provides a range of benefits that extend far beyond the fairway. With its focus on inclusion and personal achievement, it can be a transformative experience for the individual.
Socialization and Unique Bonding
Adaptive golf programs bring individuals with similar experiences together in a low-pressure setting. They can connect with peers while learning a new skill. It’s also a fantastic family activity. Spending an afternoon at the driving range, on the practice green or even riding around in a golf cart together creates shared memories and a special bond away from routine appointments and therapies.
Many clinics introduce oversized holes and putting mats. Some, even provide spontaneous activities such as an impromptu visit from “bullseye man” for freeform target practice, to ensure the skill accumulation is balanced with levity.
Simply Having Fun Outdoors
Being outside in the fresh air is a benefit for all. Adaptive golf is not about achieving a perfect swing or score. It’s about celebrating small wins, the satisfying sound of a clean contact, the joy of a putt dropping into the hole, or just watching a ball fly forward and through the air. The focus of adaptive golf clinics is on enjoyment and participation.
For kids, it can be fun just riding in a golf cart, seeing the fish and turtles in the pond, and the ducklings waddling around on the golf course. It’s a fun and easy way to introduce them to a place of peace.
Developing Balance, Concentration and Coordination
The simple, repeatable motion of a golf swing is excellent for developing physical skills. It helps improve balance, hand-eye coordination and concentration. For many individuals, the sensory-friendly pacing of the sport provides a calm structure to practice motor skills without feeling overwhelmed.
One mother told us at a recent clinic her child had tried playing baseball, and it was stressful being in so much of a high-pressure spotlight. Conversely, the one-on-one coaching, camaraderie and pace of adaptive golf fit her son’s needs to a tee!
Exposure to Positive Role Models
The participants will meet a variety of positive influences in an adaptive golf program. Coaches, volunteers and even older adaptive golfers model inclusion, patience and perseverance. These community role models demonstrate golf is a sport for everyone, and they provide encouragement every step of the way.
One of Our Students
McKenzie Wortman is a long-time student of ours. I have been supporting her journey for years. We try to create the safest and easiest way for her to play the game. The goal is to first find the best way to stabilizer her and make her feel comfortable. Once we determine that, we explore the best way for her to hold a golf club. Then I try and make the most repeatable swing possible. All along the way, I use specialized fitting equipment to compliment the position that works the best. McKenzie’s goal has been to learn how to play the game so she can join her father on the course.
Getting Started in Adaptive Golf is Easy
Hesitations about attention span, mobility or anxiety are completely normal, but adaptive programs are designed with these in mind. Sessions are often shorter. Seated swings are an option for individuals with mobility challenges. Larger targets help make the game rewarding. The entire experience is built around the participant's comfort and success.
A great first step is to speak with the general manager at your local PGA TOUR Superstore. Associates and fitters at the store level often have knowledge of local programs, access to resources and equipment, plus calendars of events. You can also visit your state’s golf association website to find links to adaptive golf programs and events happening near you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Tim Wilkes is Senior Manager with PGA TOUR Superstore. He is also a member of the PGA of America and a certified golf instructor. Tim has been working with adaptive golfers for 18 years.
Read the article here.