Carrying, pulling or pushing: What difference does a Trolley really make?

The choice of how you transport your golf bag around the course is much more than a question of comfort. It affects your playing experience, your physical condition and ultimately even your score. Whether you carry your bag, push a manual Trolley or rely on electric assistance - each option has its pros and cons. This guide will help you make the best decision for your game.

Find the right golf bag for you here.

Carrying, pulling, pushing - what difference does it really make?

1. Carrying the golf bag: the physical challenge

For many golfers, carrying a golf bag on their back is the most natural way to experience golf.

Advantages: You enjoy full freedom of movement and can concentrate fully on the shot without having to maneuver a Trolley. It is also an excellent way to stay fit and burn extra calories. Sporty players appreciate the challenge and potentially faster rounds as there is no need to pick up or put down a Trolley. On some courses, carrying a bag is also preferred or even mandatory for reasons of course protection or Traditions. Pencil bags are a lighter option. These are smaller, lighter and hold fewer clubs, which noticeably reduces the load.

Disadvantages: Carrying them puts significant physical strain on the back, shoulders and knees. This quickly leads to fatigue, especially on hilly courses or during long rounds. This fatigue can have a negative impact on your concentration and the quality of your shots in the final holes.

Target group: This option is particularly suitable for very sporty golfers who prioritize fitness and a minimalist style of play, or for rounds on shorter courses. Pencil bags are ideal for a quick round after work or if you only want to take a selection of clubs with you.

2. Manual Trolleys: the popular and energy-saving alternative

Manual trolleys offer a good compromise between the physical strain of carrying and the comfort of an electric trolley. Your golf bag is pushed or pulled instead of being carried on your back.

Advantages: The biggest advantage is the noticeably lower physical strain compared to carrying. Your back and shoulder muscles are spared, which has a positive effect on your game. Manual trolleys are also environmentally friendly as they do not require electricity, do not require battery maintenance and are generally much cheaper to buy than electric trolleys. Many models can be folded up compactly, which makes transportation in the car easier.

Disadvantages: Even if you don't have to carry, pushing or pulling the Trolley still requires muscle power, especially on mountainous sections or in strong headwinds. In wet conditions, it can also be more strenuous to keep the Trolley stable and maneuver it.

Types:‍

• 2-wheel Trolleys: These models are pulled behind you. They often have a very simple design and are particularly inexpensive.
• 3-wheel trolleys (push trolleys): These are pushed in front of you. They are considered more ergonomic and are more stable due to their three wheels, which makes them easier to maneuver.
• Additional functions: Look out for useful features such as parking brakes, which are particularly important on slopes, as well as practical holders for your umbrella, scorecard or a drinks bottle.

Target group: Manual Trolleys are ideal for price-conscious golfers who are looking for relief from carrying but do not need or want electric assistance.

Here you will find a comparison of ten push trolleys for golfers.

3. Electric Trolleys: Comfort at the touch of a button

Electric Trolleys are the most comfortable way of transporting golf bags and relieve you of almost any physical effort.

Advantages: The most obvious advantage is maximum physical relief. The motor takes over the transportation of the bag so that you can focus all your concentration on your game and your shots without being distracted by fatigue. This is particularly beneficial on hilly and challenging courses. Many e-trolleys also offer convenient additional functions that further enhance the playing experience.

Disadvantages: Convenience comes at a price: electric trolleys have a high purchase cost. They are also often heavier than manual models, which can make transportation more difficult. Another point is battery maintenance; the battery needs to be charged regularly and its service life is limited. They can also take up more space when being transported in a car.

Technology aspects: Modern e-trolleys are usually powered by powerful lithium-ion batteries that can easily handle one or often two rounds of 18 holes. The frames are often made of lightweight but robust materials such as aluminum, titanium or carbon.

Comfort functions: Many models are equipped with a remote control so that the Trolley follows you or drives to a specific point. Speed control (cruise control) and distance functions (e.g. automatic travel over 10, 20 or 30 meters) are further conveniences.

Target group: Electric trolleys are the perfect choice for golfers who want maximum comfort on the round, have health restrictions or often play long and physically demanding rounds.

4. The influence on the game: How the Trolley helps your Performance

Regardless of whether you choose a manual or electric trolley, not having to carry your bag can have a positive impact on your golf game.

Less fatigue, better concentration: The main benefit of a trolley is the conservation of your physical energy. By not having to carry the weight or push it minimally, your body stays fresher. This leads to a more stable concentration over the entire round, especially in the last, often crucial holes.

Potential stroke saving: It is difficult to give an exact number of strokes saved, as this depends heavily on your fitness level, course topography and round length. But the logic is clear: less physical fatigue leads to better technique and fewer errors late in the round. A more stable posture and a more precise swing due to less fatigue can indirectly lead to potentially saved shots.

Energy consumption and calories: Golf is more physically demanding than many assume. An 18-hole round covers a walking distance of seven to ten kilometers and takes around four to five hours. Golfers burn an average of around 1,500 kcal in the process. By comparison, a jogger burns around 700 kcal in one hour. Carrying the bag increases this consumption, while using a Trolley significantly reduces physical exertion and calorie consumption. The Trolley preserves your energy for what really counts: the perfect swing, reading the green and the mental game, instead of using it up for the tedious transportation of equipment. This will keep you mentally fit and focused for longer.

5. What you should look out for when buying a golf trolley

Deciding on the right Trolley depends on your individual needs. Consider the following points:

• Folding size and weight: think about how the trolley will be transported in the car. Will it fit comfortably in the trunk? Is it light enough to load and unload easily?
• Stability and robustness: A good trolley should be stable even on uneven terrain and hold your bag securely. Look for high-quality materials and solid workmanship for a long service life.
• Ease of use: How easy is it to assemble and disassemble the trolley? Is it easy to maneuver, even with a full bag?
• Equipment and accessories: Think about which extras are useful for you: Do you need a holder for your golf umbrella, Scorecard, GPS device or drinks bottle?
• Budget: Manual Trolleys are significantly cheaper than electric models. Set yourself a realistic budget that meets your requirements.
• Battery power (only for electric trolleys): If you opt for an electric trolley, pay attention to the stated range of the battery. Will it reliably last for 18 or even 36 holes if you are planning longer rounds?

AI tools were used to create this article.