Why do Golf Fitness?
By Beth Begelman. Beth is a contributor and member of the Golf Fitness Magazine Advisory Team. This article was featured in the inaugural Spring 2007 edition.
Very often we hear about the importance of being fit, especially now that the new year is upon us. Of course being fit will help us achieve a richer and more rewarding existence. We reduce our risk of heart disease and related illnesses such as high blood pressure and diabetes and we generally feel better mentally. For those of us involved in various sports activities, being fit specifically for our chosen sport is crucial to perform to the best of our abilities. It is common for elite, professional athletes to train for their sports but sport-specific training can also greatly enhance the recreational athlete’s game and longevity. The game of golf is no exception and is one such sport where specific fitness is a key to improved performance. Continue …
Specialists can help golfers customize their workouts for greater success on the greens.
By Michael Rowe
Let’s talk about the most important but most overlooked piece of equipment you use as a golfer. No, not the ball retriever your body. Contrary to what a lot of people believe, golf is a sport that requires the body to make a very athletic move the swing.
For a powerful, consistent swing, you need to have strength, flexibility and balance. Without the right combination of those three things, your body will compensate for your weaknesses, and that can lead to swing flaws and often injury. Just showing up on the first tee, taking out a club, twisting once to the left and once to the right then bending over to touch your toes (only reaching your knees) is not enough to prepare your body for a good swing. You really need a golf-specific workout routine before you hit the course and a simple, effective warm-up to swing your best.
Pilates and Golf
Pilates is one of the most popular exercises of choice these days. Madonna does it, Jason Kidd does it, and you may have heard that Tiger and Annika do it. It is documented that Camilo Villegas does it . . . you need to be pretty strong and very lithe to lay down on a green and read putts the way Camilo does! He is in top physical condition, you can tell by looking at him. Pilates and golf are a natural blend. All of the muscles required for golf are trained during Pilates. Both matwork and apparatus work fit the bill for training golfers.
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