The golf game of today is not what it used to be. Not long ago golf was viewed as simply a game of recreation or a convenient forum for closing business deals.
Now, however, a completely new aspect of the game has emerged. Many players (including pros) have discovered that they can add a new dimension to their game and take it the next level with the concept of golf conditioning.
What is golf conditioning? In a nutshell, it is an exercise program that focuses specifically on strengthening those muscle groups critical for maintaining the strength and endurance to excel in the game.
In order for the concept of targeted conditioning for golf to gain wide acceptance, several misconceptions have been dispelled. For example, some golfers have felt that working out with weights will cause them to lose some of their "feel." This is hardly the case. When golf specific muscle groups are strengthened, balance and coordination are also enhanced. Your "feel" will improve correspondingly.
Another misconception is that time spent lifting weights will cause the individual to "bulk up" excessively, resulting in an impeded swing. Again, not true! When the concept of conditioning specific to golf is used, the athlete will tone up rather than bulk up. The desired response is endurance coupled with strength.
Bodybuilders whose goal is to bulk up do it by lifting much heavier weights with fewer repetitions. The goal of a conditioning program for golf is to lift lighter weights with more repetitions, approximately twelve to fifteen per set. The result will be increased stamina and endurance, elements essential for improving your game.
Yet another myth is weight training will cause the loss of flexibility. While a session in the weight room will cause your muscles to tighten up initially, you must consider that weight training is only one piece of the golf conditioning picture. Stretching is another component of the program.
When stretching, you should make it a habit to stretch all muscle groups, not just the golf specific ones targeted when lifting. The reason for this is to maintain balance throughout your entire body. This will make for a smoother swing and reduce the possibility of strains and sprains.
When should you begin your new program of conditioning? Right away! If you are a teenager, you should have proper supervision, of course. If you are older? Not a problem.
Positive results have been shown for golfers right up into theirs eighties. As a word of caution, though, the older you are, the easier you should take it at first. As we age, we gradually lose flexibility.
Are you ready to take your game to the next level? Are you ready to develop that powerful smooth swing you’ve always wanted? Then get started on a golf conditioning program today!
For more Golf Strength Training information, take a look at the Perform Better Golf Blog, published daily by Mike Pedersen.
About the Author: Mike Pedersen is one of the top golf swing trainers and golf fitness experts in the country, author of the Ultimate Golf Fitness Manual, and founder of several online golf fitness and exercise websites.
Check out his golf strength training dvds, workout and fitness products, and his best-selling Golf Fitness System, specifically designed to improve golf specific strength, flexibility, coordination, and overall golf swing mechanics!
