Golf will get you outdoors and will get you moving. The combination of physical and mental activity will keep you sharp. Every course and every shot is different. You don't have to shoot par or have a perfect game to have fun. . It is a contest primarily with yourself to see if you can use your understanding of game and your practices to improve on your game.

The most obvious way of improving your game is to take some golf lessons preferably from a pro. What you learn in lessons you will be able to put to use on course. If money is a concern consider group lessons. Not only can they be fun but it would lower your cost somewhat.

The first thing many people want to do is go out and get a set of their very own clubs. As exciting as this may be, clubs and other golf equipment can be costly. Ask around to see if someone you know has an old set lying around that you could borrow for awhile. Go to second hand stores sometimes you will find them there. I would give it careful consideration before you went to expense of investing in all this equipment. Give yourself time to decide if you are going to stick with game.

Now that you have decided to stick with game your pro or your local Golf Club store will most likely take a look at your swing and take some measurements. They can then advise you on what would be best type of equipment for your needs.

Imagine this scenario if you will. Let's say that you are 7.5k into a 10k run and road starts to incline. Ever so slightly, but enough to put that extra strain on your legs as you try to maintain contact with leaders. And temperature? Well, it's morning, but it's hot and liable to get hotter before end. And to make matters worse, you were so desperate to maintain contact with leading group, that you forgot to take on liquid at last feeding station. And did you use tight fitting calf length socks? I know they are all rage, but why did you do it?

So what do we have here?

* Extra strain on muscles? * Dehydration? * Loss of essentials salts? * Restriction of blood flow?

All in all, I think that we are describing running calf cramps, waiting to happen.

I am not sure that anyone has definitive answer to cause of cramps, but there are certainly several steps that you can take which could help save you from disaster during competition, in any sport.

1. A Proper Warm Up

Ok, I know you know, but did you do it? If not, then those cramps could be coming. Seriously, if you have been involved in any sport to any level, then you will be aware of importance of a proper warm up. And I don't just mean a brisk walk up stairs to changing room either! A proper warm up should include a routine that gently stretches your muscles to get them ready for increased exertion, and gets your blood flowing around your body. Not only will a warm help prevent calf cramps, they will also help prevent some of injuries that might occur when you put sudden strain on cold muscles.

And whilst we are talking of warm ups, don't forget warm downs as well. Warming down after exercise can also help prevent cramping and reduce risk of injury.

2. Train Hard, Run Easy