The ancient Romans played a golf-like game that involved striking a feather-stuffed ball with club-shaped branches. Luckily, you can skip the feathers and branches and play a more modern form of golf that owes its origins to the Scots.

For some people golf becomes more than a pastime - it's a way of life that culminates in a move to a golf community. Unfortunately, many courses are requiring motorized carts during peak hours or all the time, but you can a have a more enjoyable, more healthful and less costly time if you find a course that allows walking.

More and more women are enjoying golf, and the rise of Tiger Woods has piqued interest in many children. If you want to give your kids the opportunity, consider starting with a miniature golf course, then graduate to lessons with a pro and a driving range .

• Golf is a game of strategy, so the best athlete doesn't always win.
  
  
• Anyone from tykes to seniors can play.
  
  
• Walking while pulling a golf cart or carrying your golf bag can help burn calories and up your stamina.
  
  
• Golf lets you bask in the outdoors, and those who enjoy it have a lifelong social activity .

• Break out your credit card -- this is an expensive pastime.
  
  
• Playing can eat into family time on the weekends.
  
  
• Use of motorized carts reduces the health benefits of golf, though it's still better than sitting in front of the TV.
  
  
• Exercise is supposed to reduce stress, but for some golfers the sport is primarily an exercise in frustration that can veer into obsession. It isn't just in "Caddyshack" that people get teed off and throw their clubs.