Swing Fit aims to boost female golf participation through social and wellness engagement

Created in early 2015 to increase female participation and engagement in the game, Golf Australia’s Swing Fit is an innovative golf fitness and skill development program that has socialisation, conditioning and games based learning at its core.

Presenting a golfing experience that focuses on health and fitness in a social environment, Swing Fit aims to ease the transition of female participants into further involvement in golf.

Mindful of statistics that show only around one in five golf clubs members are female, the program owes much to Tennis Australia’s successful Cardio Tennis initiative.

Independent research conducted prior to the introduction of Swing Fit suggested there are big opportunities for attracting more women into golf, with a staggering 1.3 million Australian women indicating that they would consider participating in golf in the next 12 months, while 512,000 were motivated to participate.

The research also showed that these women craved social connection but also sought convenient and non-judgemental opportunities to learn the game – in environments where they would not be embarrassed.

As a result, Swing Fit programs are based on a six week program with 75 minute lessons in group sizes of between six and 10 participants. All sessions involve social interaction and feedback.

Motivations for Swing Fit
With a focus on women in golf, in July 2013 Golf Australia partnered with the Australian Sports Commission, to conduct research into women’s participation.

Identifying motivations key to women’s participation, the report stated “there is a perception within the golf community that women may be motivated to participate in golf to compete or for a challenge … however, the key drivers to attract women are instead social benefits and health benefits.”

Female motivations to participate in golf

Women want a chance to meet likeminded people and participate in a game that can be played with family and friends. It has to be beneficial to their fitness and be held at well managed facilities with a welcoming atmosphere. Learning the skills of golf is important for women so they won’t be embarrassed. Cost can be a turn off. They are prepared to spend around $20 per visit. Beginner sessions use a games based skill approach to maximise fun and early success.

For more information go to www.swingfit.com.au

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