Walking vs Riding: Pros and Cons for Beginner Golfers

As a new golfer, one of the first decisions you’ll face isn’t about which club to use or which ball to playit’s about how you’ll navigate the course. Should you walk the fairways carrying your bag or using a push cart? Or should you opt for the convenience of a motorized golf cart? This choice impacts not only your experience but also your fitness, finances, and even your game development. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make the right choice for your golfing journey.

Quick Takeaways

• Walking burns significantly more calories (roughly 1,400 vs 800 per 18 holes) compared to riding
• Golfers who walk score 1-2 strokes better on average according to recent studies
• Push carts/trolleys offer an excellent middle ground, providing walking benefits without strain
• Riding costs typically add $15-30 per round to green fees, significant for regular players
• Walking allows better pre-shot preparation and natural rhythm between shots
• Course terrain and weather conditions should influence your walking vs riding decision
• Electric trolleys are gaining popularity, offering walking benefits with reduced physical strain
• Walking improves social interaction with your entire playing group throughout the round
• New golfers often benefit from walking’s pace, allowing time to process and learn the game

The Physical Benefits: Fitness on the Fairways

One of the most compelling reasons to walk the golf course is the physical benefit. Golf is often underestimated as exercise, but the numbers tell a different story.

The Fitness Factor

According to research conducted by Neil Wolkodoff at the Rose Center for Health and Sports Sciences, walking 18 holes burns approximately:

• 721 calories when carrying your bag
• 718 calories when using a push cart/trolley
• 613 calories when using a caddy
• 411 calories when riding in a cart

That means walking golfers burn nearly twice as many calories as those who rideequivalent to a significant workout. Over an 18-hole round, walking typically covers 4-6 miles depending on the course layout and your shot pattern.

Beyond calorie burn, walking provides these additional physical benefits:

• Cardiovascular health improvements
• Lower risk of heart disease and stroke
• Better weight management
• Reduced stress
• Improved sleep quality
• Enhanced muscle tone in legs and core

“Golf is a good walk spoiled, but only if you’re riding in a cart. When you walk, it’s just a good walk enhanced by occasional good shots.” - Dr. Andrew Murray, Sports Medicine Physician

The Physical Strain Consideration

While the fitness benefits are clear, it’s important to acknowledge that walking 18 holesespecially while carrying a full set of clubscan be physically demanding, particularly for:

• Beginners still building their golf stamina
• Older players with joint issues
• Those with existing injuries or medical conditions
• Play during extreme heat or on very hilly courses

This is where push carts (also called trolleys) offer an excellent middle ground. They provide most of the fitness benefits of walking while reducing the strain of carrying clubs. Modern push carts are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and fold down compactly for transportation.

The Financial Equation: Counting the Cost

For many new golfers, especially those playing regularly, the financial aspect of the walk-vs-ride decision is significant.

Cost Comparison

Typical cart fees across the US:

• Public courses: $15-20 per player
• Resort courses: $25-35 per player
• Premium destinations: $35-50+ per player

For a golfer playing twice monthly, choosing to walk could save $360-840 annuallyenough for a new driver or several lessons with a professional.

Equipment Investment Considerations

While walking saves on cart fees, it may require some initial investment:

Walking Option	Initial Cost	Lifespan	Cost Per Round (Over 3 Years)
Carry bag	$100-300	3-5 years	$0.50-2.00
Push cart	$150-300	5+ years	$0.50-1.25
Electric trolley	$600-1,500	5+ years	$2.50-6.25
Golf cart rental	N/A	N/A	$15-30

Even when factoring in equipment costs, walking remains significantly more economical for regular players. Many beginners start with a lightweight carry bag before transitioning to a push cart as they play more frequently.

“I encourage my students to walk whenever possiblenot just for the physical benefits, but because it’s financially smart. The money saved on cart fees over a season can pay for several lessons that will improve your game far more than riding ever could.” - PGA Teaching Professional

Game Improvement: Does Your Transportation Choice Affect Your Score?

Perhaps surprisingly, research suggests that how you navigate the course may actually impact your performance.

The Score Impact

A recent study published in the World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews found that golfers who walked the course:

• Scored 1-2 strokes better on average than those who rode
• Reported better mental focus during their rounds
• Maintained better rhythm throughout their swing

This performance edge likely comes from several factors:

1. Natural rhythm between shots - Walking creates a natural pace that helps maintain focus and consistency
2. Better course feel - Walkers develop a better understanding of terrain, slopes, and conditions
3. Pre-shot preparation - Walking to your ball provides time to plan your next shot
4. Connection to the game - Walking allows deeper immersion in the golf experience
5. Physical readiness - The continuous movement keeps muscles warm and engaged

Learning the Game

For beginners specifically, walking offers distinct advantages for learning the game:

• Time between shots to process the previous swing and prepare for the next
• Ability to closely observe playing partners’ shots and strategies
• Greater exposure to various course conditions and lies
• Development of course management skills through direct experience with terrain
• More authentic connection to golf’s traditions and ethos

“When teaching new golfers, I always recommend walking for the learning benefits. You see more, feel more, and process more when you’re on foot. Riding can fragment the experience.” - LPGA Teaching Professional

The Social Aspect: Interaction on the Course

Golf is inherently social, but how you navigate the course affects your interaction with playing partners.

Group Dynamics

In a standard foursome:

• Walking allows interaction with all players throughout the round
• Riding typically pairs players two per cart, limiting broader socialization
• Walking facilitates conversation on a wider range of topics as groups naturally form and reform

For beginners seeking to build connections and learn from more experienced players, walking provides more diverse social opportunities throughout the round.

Pace of Play Considerations

A common misconception is that riding is significantly faster than walking. In practice:

• Well-organized walking groups match or sometimes exceed the pace of riding groups
• Cart path only restrictions can actually make riding slower than walking
• Walking golfers can proceed directly to their balls while carts often follow restrictions
• The difference on a well-managed course is typically only 15-20 minutes per 18 holes

The key for walking golfers is maintaining awareness of pace and being prepared to play when it’s your turn.

Equipment Options: Beyond the Basic Choice

The walking vs. riding decision has expanded beyond the traditional dichotomy, with several options now available.

Walking Equipment Evolution

Modern walking equipment options include:

1. Lightweight stand bags - Modern materials have reduced carry bag weights to as little as 3-4 pounds empty
2. Push/pull carts - Three and four-wheel designs offer stability and easy maneuverability
3. Electric trolleys - Battery-powered carts that transport your clubs with minimal physical effort
4. Remote-controlled carts - Advanced models that follow you around the course automatically
5. Golf scooters - Single-rider vehicles that offer a middle ground between walking and traditional carts

The Rise of Electric Trolleys

Electric trolleys (motorized push carts) have gained significant popularity, especially in Europe and increasingly in the US. These devices offer:

• The walking benefits for the golfer
• Minimal physical strain from pushing or carrying
• Sophisticated features like remote control and GPS integration
• Battery life sufficient for multiple rounds
• Reduced impact on courses compared to traditional riding carts

Though more expensive initially ($600-1,500), electric trolleys provide an excellent compromise for those who want the benefits of walking without the physical demands of carrying or pushing.

“At our club, we’ve seen electric trolley usage triple in the past three years. Members appreciate getting their steps in without the strain on their shoulders and back. It’s the best of both worlds.” - Golf Club Manager

Course Considerations: When Walking May (or May Not) Be Ideal

Not all golf courses are equally conducive to walking. Several factors should influence your decision:

When Walking Makes Sense

Walking is particularly well-suited for:

• Traditional layouts with tees close to previous greens
• Links and parkland courses with minimal elevation changes
• Cooler weather conditions or early morning tee times
• Shorter course designs such as executive or par-3 courses
• Courses with caddie programs to assist with bag carrying

When Riding Might Be Preferable

Consider riding when facing:

• Modern resort courses with significant distances between holes
• Extremely hilly terrain that would be physically taxing
• Severe weather conditions (excessive heat, humidity)
• Time constraints that require a slightly faster pace
• Physical limitations that would make walking uncomfortable or unsafe

“Know the course before deciding. I’ve played courses where walking enhances the experience and others where it would be a grueling march. Research the layout or ask in the pro shop if you’re unsure.” - Golf Course Architect

The Beginner’s Decision Framework: Making Your Choice

For new golfers specifically, here’s a practical framework to help make the walk-vs-ride decision:

Questions to Consider

1. Physical condition: Can you comfortably walk 4-6 miles over varied terrain?
2. Course layout: Is the course designed with walker-friendly routing?
3. Weather: What are the typical conditions when you’ll be playing?
4. Budget: How important are the ongoing savings from walking?
5. Learning goals: Are you focused on rapid improvement and course understanding?
6. Equipment: Do you have appropriate walking gear (comfortable shoes, lightweight bag)?
7. Playing partners: What do your regular playing companions prefer?

The Hybrid Approach

Many beginners find success with a hybrid approach:

• Walk 9 holes, ride 9 holes as you build stamina
• Walk on easier courses, ride on more challenging layouts
• Use a push cart instead of carrying to reduce physical strain
• Walk during cooler months, ride during summer heat
• Alternate walking and riding on different outings

This balanced approach provides the benefits of walking while acknowledging practical limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will I be looked down on as a beginner if I choose to ride instead of walk?
A: Not at all. While walking has traditional roots, riding is common and accepted at most courses. Choose what makes your experience most enjoyable.

Q: Is walking significantly slower than riding?
A: Not necessarily. Well-prepared walking golfers typically finish just 15-20 minutes behind riding groups over 18 holes. On courses with cart path restrictions, walking can sometimes be faster.

Q: Should I start with carrying my bag or using a push cart?
A: Most beginners find using a push cart more enjoyable as it offers the benefits of walking without the physical strain of carrying. Start with a push cart and consider carrying later if desired.

Q: Are electric trolleys worth the investment?
A: For regular players who want walking benefits without physical strain, electric trolleys offer excellent value despite their higher initial cost. They’re particularly worthwhile if you play courses with significant elevation changes.

Q: Will walking help me learn the game faster?
A: Many teaching professionals believe walking accelerates the learning curve by providing better course awareness, more time to process between shots, and a more connected experience to the game.

Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds

The walking vs. riding decision doesn’t have to be binary. Many experienced golfers choose different options based on the day’s circumstances, course conditions, and personal factors.

For most beginners, a mixed approach makes sense:

• Start with walking using a push cart on easier, flatter courses
• Consider riding in extreme weather or on particularly challenging layouts
• Invest in good walking shoes and a lightweight bag or push cart
• Try both options to discover your personal preference

Remember that the “right” choice is the one that maximizes your enjoyment and development in the game. Golf’s traditions celebrate walking, but its modern incarnation embraces options that make the game accessible and enjoyable for all players regardless of how they navigate the course.

Your Golf Journey

What’s your experience with walking versus riding as a newer golfer? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

We’d especially love to hear from those who have tried both options or who use push carts/electric trolleys about how your choice has impacted your game and enjoyment.

References

1. Golf Digest: “Walking vs. Riding: New Study Shows Surprising Results”

2. The Walking Golfers Society: “Benefits of Walking”

3. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews: “Energy Expenditure Compared to Mental Focus & Score in Three Modes of Golf Transport/Play”

4. PGA of America: “Walking Statistics for Golfers”

5. American Heart Association: “Benefits of Walking”