Practice and exercise routines

Question
QUESTION: Hi Eddie, I am an ex college player, I am 40 and didn't really play for 15 years, about a year ago a got the itch again and started playing, I have been practicing lots and got my handicap down to a 1.  I want to play in tournaments next summer so this is the perfect time to start preparing.  I live in Atlanta, so the weather is cold but acceptable for playing and practicing.  I need advise as to how much and what I should practice and exercise.  I have about 3 hours a day during the week and can play  or practice once on the weekend.  You should also know that I am pretty good shape, but it genes, I really need an exercise routine.Please advise.  Thanks so much for your time!!! R~

ANSWER: Hi Rebeca:

Very cool that you have the itch again.  I think that is great.  My advice is pretty simple, and you being a good player, I hope you can appreciate this.  STICK TO THE BASICS!!

#1:  Work on your short game 70% of the time, long game 30%.  As a 1, you obviously hit it well.  But your short game is where and how you score.  To be competitive, you must score!  NOTE:  I have short game practice sheets that you can have that will really help structure your practice sessions.  All you have to do is email me your personal email address and I'll send them over to you.  

#2:  Order Roger Frederick's Flexibility program and get started.  He has 3 levels starting at beginner.  This is the best program I have seen to do at home every day (perfect for winter months).  You will get stronger, a lot more flexible and your balance will improve.  Those are the 3 things you need the most.  And you can do it at home.  Get them at www.fredericksgolf.com.  

#3:  Get to work!

Send me your email address and let's get started. I look forward to hearing of your progress.   

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you so much Eddie, you've got a great point, funny thing is the basics are 10 times what they use to be 15 years ago, so your advice is so greatly appreciated.

-I would love to have the short game practice sheet,I definitely feel that structure is key in getting my mental game back in track as well.Thank you!!!! Question, do I just send you a private message with my email address??

I checked out Rogers website,it totally rocks.  You should know that I recently got a membership to the YMCA (they are amazing in Atlanta, you get top quality w/o the gym feel) and talked to a trainer who was exited to train someone for a sport rather than because they were tired, anyway, he suggested core performance for golf. Have you heard about this program? if so what do you think about it?


Last question, how many days a week would you recommend I practice, work out and play, I am wondering the ratio that you would recommend?

Finally I want to thank you for taking the time to me and I will definitely keep you posted on my progress.

Take Care,

Rebeca

Answer
Hi Rebeca:

Yes, send me an email so I can have your private email address, then I will send them to you.  Send to [email protected].  My advice on the YMCA is to be careful who trains you.  Yes, the core performance program is great.  You'll need it.  You need core strength, balance and flexibility.  Those are crucial to play good golf.  I would recommend working on your body 3 days per week, golf game 6 days per week.  Do it according to your schedule, but that is a lot of work in front of you.  I'll get the sheets to you so you can begin the short game practice.  Best of luck, I look forward to the next cool story of 2011!!

Eddie