Research shows how electric buggies can help Australian golfers reduce strain, maintain focus and finish every round stronger
Australian golfers are being encouraged to walk the course as part of their regular exercise routine, with research showing that walking delivers significant physical and mental health benefits while also helping golfers perform better.
According to the latest Golf & Health Report published by the R&A, research found that an 18-hole round typically covers six to eight kilometres and involves about 13,000 steps, exceeding the widely recommended daily target of 10,000. Even nine holes can account for three to four kilometres and approximately 5,000 steps. Played at a brisk enough pace, a weekly nine-hole round can provide about 150 minutes of activity, meeting World Health Organisation physical-activity guidelines.
The benefits extend beyond the step count. Walking golfers can experience three to five hours of sustained moderate cardiovascular activity, alongside improvements in balance and co-ordination. Time spent in green space has been associated with reduced stress and anxiety, while the social nature of golf can support mental wellbeing.
For Australian golfers, gaining those benefits does not mean carrying a heavy bag or pushing a manual buggy through unforgiving conditions. Electric buggies retain the exercise and cardiovascular advantages of walking while reducing unnecessary strain on the body.
Australian market research conducted by Sporting Insights found that 60 percent of golfers most frequently use a push buggy, compared with 18 percent who use an electric buggy and 7 percent who carry. Among electric buggy users, 69 percent identified walking without the strain of carrying a bag as a major benefit, 63 percent said it made golf more enjoyable and 59 percent reported having more energy at the end of the round.
That extra energy can be particularly valuable on the closing holes, when fatigue can affect concentration and swing consistency. In the same study, 71 percent of electric-buggy users said the equipment gave them more energy to hit the ball better, while 35 percent reported a more consistent swing and 35 percent believed it supported a better mentality.
Research included in the Motocaddy Report found that golfers can use 20 percent more energy pushing a manual buggy than using an electric model, and at least 30 percent more when carrying clubs. Over 18 holes, that additional load can contribute to fatigue, tension and a greater risk of back, shoulder, knee and muscular injuries.
“Walking has always been one of golf’s greatest strengths, but many players still assume they need to carry their clubs or push a heavy buggy to enjoy those health benefits,” said Oliver Churcher, marketing director at Motocaddy.
“The evidence shows that’s simply
not the case. Electric buggies allow golfers to stay active while reducing fatigue and physical strain, helping them feel fresher and enjoy the game more from the first tee to the final shot.”
Dr Antoni Jakubowski, a leading chiropractor who has helped major champions including Justin Rose and Sir Nick Faldo overcome back injuries, highlights the importance of electric buggies.
“Speaking from a professional point of view, a powered trolley is a necessity for amateur players; not just for the performance benefits, but long-term injury prevention as well,” Jakubowski said. “For an amateur player, an electric trolley is as important as a caddie is to
a professional, and I strongly advise all
my golfing patients to use one over carrying or pulling their clubs around a course for future enjoyment and continued good health.”
With 22 percent of Australian electric buggy users saying they wished they had switched sooner, and 30 percent of push-buggy users open to renting an electric model, more golfers are recognising that powered assistance isn’t the lazy option. It’s simply a smarter way to walk.
Editor’s note: Our focus is on making the walk around the course easier, not necessarily harder. That’s why the following pages include everything from remote-controlled walking buggies to ride-on golf carts, catering to different needs and levels of mobility. Enjoy!
