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Golf Conditioning vs. Regular Exercise Program
Thursday, December 27, 2007

I get this question quite often. What is the difference between golf conditioning and just regular exercise?

Some may argue that general stretching, general strengthening and general cardio will help their golf performance. My response is usually, yes it will, but there is so much more you can do that will improve your game much quicker, and take you to a much higher level.

Let me explain. As an Athletic Trainer and Fitness Professional, I am always lobbying for people to exercise and improve their overall health. I think taking that first step to begin an exercise program is huge. Safe exercising for a de-conditioned individual is great! I always applaud it.

But if you are a golfer, and you want to improve performance, you simply must have a golf specific program. This type of program starts with a detailed assessment of flexibility, strength, balance, mobility, stability, posture and power. You need to know what your physical limitations are and how to correct them. Otherwise you will waste valuable time in reaching your goals. Performing an exercise you see in a magazine may not be specific to your body or swing faults. So be smart in what you choose to do.

Additionally you should work with your golf professional in correcting specific swing faults. We all know what swing faults do to our swing. The cool thing about a golf conditioning program is that when you correct your physical limitations, then the swing faults that cause those bad shots are improved, and eventually eliminated.

The bottom line is you hit the fall farther, more accurate and play much better.

Have a great new year!

Posted by Mark @ 10:02 AM

Jack Nicklaus Concerned About Junior Golfers
Thursday, December 13, 2007

I came across a recent short article regarding junior golfers specializing in golf. Essentially the discussion was about, how many competitive junior golfers only participate in the sport of golf and didn’t play other sports. I guess I can say that Jack and I think alike regarding this topic.

Jack explained that when growing up he played all kinds of sports and never focused just on golf until he was about 19. His recommendation to young golfers today is to do the same. Play other sports and give golf a little rest.

I know today is a different form growing up in the 50’s. Today junior golfers often times receive constant personalized instruction as well as work with a golf fitness specialist, and sometimes even a sports psychologist. The point is, parents go a little overboard in developing their little golfers.

From a physical or athletic perspective it is my belief and experience that kids (up to 16-18 yrs) would benefit from playing other sports. It aids in developing coordination, basic movement patterns, overall fitness, and even has emotional benefits. It also gives them a break from the grind of becoming a competitive golfer. I know parents worry about injuries occurring from playing another sport, but I think the benefit outweighs that risk.

So I think Jack has it right, junior golfers should be involved in other sports and activities. Give them a break, let them be kids.

Posted by Mark @ 3:35 PM