Magazines: golfdigest.com

Breathe easier?

Two golf-course pesticides pose minimal health risk to golfers, study finds

By Ron Kaspriske

Illustration By Lou Beach

Exercise Illustrations By Colin Hayes

November 2008

A new study concludes that the residue from two widely used golf-course insecticides does not pose a health risk to golfers, although the effects from long-term exposure to pesticides continue to be monitored and debated (see our May 2008 report on golf and the environment). The study, funded in part by the USGA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, was conducted by toxicology experts at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. It found that golfers' exposure to the maximum-allowed dose of pesticides carbaryl (Sevin SL) and chlorpyrifos (Dursban Pro) were anywhere from 19 to 68 times lower than the levels established by the Environmental Protection Agency to protect human health. Testing was performed on golfers playing 76 simulated rounds on turf that had been recently sprayed and irrigated.

Good Tip

Balance Things Out

Carrying a golf bag for 18 holes is a terrific workout (up to 2,000 calories are burned, depending on your weight and the rigors of the walk), but note how you carry it. If you favor one shoulder for the load, you can develop problems with your posture, including spinal curvature and pain in the lumbar joints, says Golf Digest Professional Advisor Ralph Simpson. When you carry your golf bag, be sure to switch shoulders often. Use your left side for odd-numbered holes and your right side for even holes. If you have a two-strap bag, make sure the weight is distributed evenly and that you "walk tall," with level shoulders and a straight spine.

Hit the Gym

Stand Tall

You can't hit solid shots unless you stay in your golf posture. Late-round fatigue can make that tough. But these exercises can help.

1. Wall Sit

With your hands above your head, brace your back against the wall and slide down until your thighs are parallel to the ground. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds.