The popular sport which is good for your heart and keeps your blood pressure down

GOLF is good for the heart, say experts.

Regular laps could keep your health above average by lowering blood pressure and sugar levels.

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Researchers found that playing 18 holes as you age is better for fitness than just walking.

Study author Julia Ketinen says: “Despite the lower exercise intensity in golf, the longer duration and higher energy expenditure seem to have a more positive effect.”

The University of Eastern Finland study compared the health of over-65s after either 18 holes of golf, a 3.7-mile walk, or “Nordic Walking” — using trekking poles for walking.

Golf took almost four times as long and burned 1,377 calories compared to 494 walking.

NHS guidelines state that over 65s should be able to engage in some form of physical activity every day.

Older people should aim for 150 minutes of exercise per week and incorporate routines that improve strength, balance and flexibility.

Britons played nearly 25 million rounds of golf last year.