At various times, I sometimes will find myself watching Golf on TV. Now, after having played a fair amount of golf at one time, I can appreciate the patience and skill that is involved in the game of golf. If ever you wanted a lesson in humility, take up golf. Just when you are starting to feel really good about how your game is progressing, this sport has a way of setting you back on your heels and dealing out a small lesson in patience.
I know a lot of people don’t consider golf a sport at all and I am sure there was a time when I really didn’t think of it as a sport either; but more a game. But knowing what I know now about exercise physiology, anatomy and the science of human movement, I realize that golf very much is a sport with a skill set that must be developed in order to compete and remain injury free. It is no secret that Tiger Woods takes his game preparation very seriously. Not only does he spend hundreds of hours practicing every facet of the game itself, but he also strength trains in order to develop proper movement patterns, correct muscle sequencing during movements,
increase core strength and remain injury free. It is fairly obvious looking at him that he is “in shape”. You just need to look at his biceps under his golf shirt to know that this golfer takes his conditioning very seriously. In fact, I have heard that he bench presses over 400 pounds. Not to shabby for a golfer, eh?
I think the professionals golfers have realized that it just isn’t more time on the driving range or putting green that will improve their game, but time spent in the gym improving their bodies will have a direct impact on the performance of their sport as well. This is something we can keep in mind for all aspects of life. It doesn’t matter whether you enjoy the odd game of golf at a little Par 3 course or take on the full size professional courses, you will still benefit from the a well conditioned, strong physique. Whether you hike the Grand Canyon or walk to your local grocery store, the stronger and more conditioned you are, the easier and more enjoyable these activities will be.
I am sure we all know personally or know of seniors who are vibrant and active well into their golden years. We all also know of individuals much younger that struggle to enjoy even the basics of daily living. The time you spend now to take care of your bodies, strengthening the muscles and bones and working hard to keep it healthy will pay off as you look toward your 5th, 6th, 7th decade and beyond. I for one must strive to maintain a strong and healthy body. After all, I want to make sure I will still be able to be instructing someone how to do Bulgarians squats for sometime to come.
Till next time,
Narina
“Monitoring, Mentoring, Motivation”
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My husband, who plays golf professionally, puts it best. Golf is not a sport, it is an activity. If you can drink and smoke a cigar while you do it, it’s not a sport.
Lori – good point! From an anatomical perspective golf is definitely a sport – especially if you are playing at a competitive level. And, if you are the drinking golfer, then some forearm flexion/extension does come into play now doesn’t it?