According to the National Golf Foundation women golfers are the fastest growing segment of new golfers. There are more than 6 million female golfers in the United States. Over the last few years 30 percent of my individual lessons have been women, and in some of the group clinics that I do the class consist of easily 80 percent women. Why is there such a growth? There are a variety of reasons:

Golf for Business

Numerous women in corporate America are playing for business reasons first and foremost. When you think of the time spent playing a round of golf it's easy to see the advantages of having 4 to 5 hours of face time with a client. Employers also view potential candidates both male and female based on certain credentials and degrees. Playing golf may be the edge that works in your favor. To put it plain and simple, if you're not out there on the course you could be missing out. I'm not saying that you have to be a professional. Get a basic understanding of the fundamentals of the golf swing. Learn the rules and etiquette of the game, and get out there and play. You will be surprised to find out that the majority of the golfers out there (especially men) are not as far advanced as you may think.

Golf for Socializing

Another reason some women have taken up the game is to spend time with their husbands or boyfriends. And it gives them an opportunity to do something fun as a couple. I have even had single women tell me it's a nice place to meet "cute guys" as well. If you belong to a club it serves as a great opportunity to socialize and network with other female friends or spend quality time with the kids.

Golf for Fitness

Exercise is another great reason women have taken up the sport. It takes a great deal of strength, flexibility and stamina to play good golf. Being fit is a must. Also getting outside and enjoying the scenery is a known attraction to golfers of every gender. Golf also serves as a confidence booster. No matter who you are, when you stand up to a tee shot and smack it down the middle of the fairway, or if you sink a long putt for birdie or par it gives you a great sense of accomplishment. So when you combine the fact that golf is a great hobby for relaxation, self-confidence and exercise, you can't lose by taking up the game.

Golf for Women

There are a host organizations and associations for women. The EWGA (Executive Women's Golf Association) is just one of many organizations geared toward providing opportunities for women to learn, play, and enjoy the game of golf for business and for life. The EWGA (Excecutive Women's Golf Association) is located in Palm Beach Garden FL. You can find out more by logging on to www.ewga.com but here are a few tid bits of information about the EWGA.

The majority of EWGA members (69 percent) are between the ages of 36 and 55 according to the 2005 EWGA Member Satisfaction Survey.

EWGA is an individual membership association whose members are primarily working women. There are currently nearly 20,000 members.

EWGA members typically belong to a local Chapter in addition to the Association. There are currently over 115 Chapters in 39 U.S. states and two Chapters in Canada. Chapters vary in size. The average size is 158 members.

Golf for Life

Golf was once thought of as a sport enjoyed mainly by men. With more and more women becoming interested the women's golf industry is booming. It is the perfect sport for socializing, meeting new people, conducting business, and getting great exercise. Ladies equipment, apparel, and an overall acceptance of women playing have taken on a much-needed change. So if you are considering taking up the game, or if you already play, now is the best time to be a part of the game of golf.