Keeping Golf Conditioning Simple

The game of golf is often not seen as a sport needing athletic conditioning, however Tiger Woods has changed this attitude with physical conditioning that would match that of an Olympic standard track and field competitor. His dominance of the game, I believe is largely down to his physical conditioning, this has caused many of the top professionals to follow his lead.

Whilst the beginner and amateur golfer need not match the intensity of Tigers training routines, massive gains in performance and accuracy can be attained with some sensible choices of exercise to complement your golf practice.

Many peoples first reaction to training is to jump on to a treadmill and pound away mile after mile wearing through a couple of pairs of trainers in the season, however this is largely unnecessary. Jogging also is a pretty intensive exercise for the body, and because many joggers running form is particularly poor, the impact on the ankles, knees, hips and back can be significant enough to keep you off the golf course, rather than enjoying it.

Spin cycling classes, which seem to be the workout of choice at the moment for many office based workers could very well be making your game worse too, because of the posture and inflexibility it creates. With your hips flexed at your desk and your arms and shoulders rotated forwards towards your computer keyboard, this position is pretty much mirrored when you jump on the spinning bike. This is certainly a recipe for sore backs and even tighter chest muscles. There are better ways!

A more specific and structured approach to training means that we can increase your flexibility, remove postural issues and clean up your dodgy swing form.

We must also remember that time is a constraint many of us have to fitting in a structured training program. Many of us have jobs that consume a vast amount of our week leaving little time for your practice rounds let alone regular exercise.

Routines should take less than 40 minutes, performed a couple of times a week can and will make significant differences to your physique and game.

Aim to do all body exercises such as squats, lunges, pushups, and row type resistance exercise, only loading with extra weight when you can complete three sets of ten with ease. Finding a qualified fitness professional will ensure your exercise form is good is a good idea, explain what you are trying to do and normally they will be happy to sort out specific exercise plans for you.

For most high handicappers and new comers to the sport can see massive improvements in there swing and overall conditioning by just doing these simple movements. Get in the gym today and give these exercises a go!

Tim Goodwin is editor of the all new Golf Explained digital book, your complete guide to the game of golf. Claim your free “Golf Explained” 7 part eCourse, over at www.golfexplained.com