Golf

Golf is a precision sport in which players use clubs to hit a small ball toward a series of holes on a course. A round is usually played over 18 holes, although official rules also allow rounds of fewer holes. Each hole begins from a teeing area and ends when the ball is holed. In stroke play, the winner is generally the player who completes the round in the fewest strokes. Every hole has a par, which represents the number of strokes expected for a skilled player under normal conditions; the total par varies from course to course, although 72 is common for an 18-hole course.

Golf courses include different surfaces and obstacles, such as fairways, rough, bunkers, water and putting greens. Players choose among clubs with different shapes and lofts to control the distance and trajectory of the ball. The handicap system provides a numerical measure of playing ability and helps golfers of different levels compete more fairly. A golf shot is the result of an interaction between the player, the club and the ball.

During the swing, body rotation and forces produced against the ground help generate clubhead speed. At impact, the speed and direction of the clubhead, the clubface angle and the quality of contact influence the ball's initial motion. Air resistance and gravity then affect its flight. The small dimples on a golf ball modify the airflow around it, helping it travel farther than a smooth ball would under comparable conditions.

Putting is different because the ball usually rolls along the ground, so distance control and the direction of the putter face are especially important. Playing a full round can also involve several kilometres of walking, depending on the course and the player's route. Regular practice can develop coordination, balance, strength and control, while walking and repeated swings add physical activity. Success also requires concentration, planning and adaptation to wind, terrain and distance.