Be fit for golf; don’t just golf to be fit

By Tanja Shaw

According to Winston Churchill “golf is a game whose aim is to hit a small ball into an even smaller hold, with weapons singularly ill-suited for the purpose”.  Despite Churchill’s misgiving, golf is an extremely popular sport among Fraser Valley residents.

Golf is an excellent reason to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.  Walking 18 holes equates to 3-4 miles of mild exercise, or five to eight thousand steps.  The game can also be a stress reliever (or just the opposite, depending on your game).  The social aspect of golf is also a bonus. 

Golf, however, is not just a walk in the park.  Golf is a highly athletic sport, and golfers are athletes.  The golf swing demands the balance and coordination of every muscle and joint in the body.  From the weekend warrior who wishes to continue to play injury free, to the competitive athlete, conditioning for golf is essential. A strong, powerful, and balanced body means increased driving distance, lower handicap, and fewer injuries.   

A general golf conditioning program should include cardiovascular conditioning, stretching, strength training.  Walking and cycling are great forms of cardiovascular training.  Start with 10 or 20 minutes of activity, and work your way up to 60 minutes.  Strengthening of the shoulders, trunk and legs will improve the golfer’s performance. Dynamic stretches, such as trunk, hip and shoulder rotations, should be done as a warm-up prior to hitting.  Static stretching, such as chest and hamstring stretches should be done after exercising, or in the evening after a hot shower.  A comprehensive golf fitness program will involve stages of flexibility, core stability, strength and power training.  A qualified golf fitness professional can offer guidance and suggestions to starting a fitness program. 

Ascend Fitness Coaching * 604-997-9989