The '5 Keys' to Power Golf

"Accept the challenges so that you may feel the exhilaration of victory."
-- George Patton, General

Are you ever amazed at just how far top golfers are hitting the ball these days? I know know I am! If you're a professional, top amateur, or collegiate player and intend on competing, you'd better be able to hit the ball off the tee at least 275 yards to even be in the conversation.

In fact, in today's golf world, players can hit the ball so far that golf course designers are having a tough time making the golf courses long enough to challenge even the shortest hitting players on tour.

There are many known reasons for 'why' modern golfers are out-hitting their predecessors including new equipment technology, better maintained golf courses, and customized, golf-specific fitness training programs.

But, as the governing bodies in golf continue to make decisions about how to legislate alterations in the golf equipment (clubs and balls) in an attempt to slow players' ability to keep adding length to their games, golfers will continue to do everything they can to seek performance-enhancing strength and conditioning programs that will promote more 'power', more distance and better scoring potential. That's guaranteed!

So what's the best way to become physically stronger and, in doing so, create more power an distance in your game? There are definitely some important things to know before jumping right in with a strength program that can make or break your desired results. In my 30 years as a physical therapist ( http://www.CallawayGolfFitness.com/ ) and specialist in the golf fitness and performance industry, I have learned what works and what doesn't when it comes to strength training for golf. I know the secrets for what can help build up a golfer's body in the safest and most efficient way. On the other hand, I also know what can cause serious injury or make performance worse!


Consequently, here's my 5 basic keys to follow if you want to be smart and get all the 'gain' without the 'pain' in your golf fitness and strengthening program.


1) Find an experienced, golf-specific fitness and performance professional to work with.

2) Have your golf fitness specialist design your customized fitness program based on the results of your comprehensive initial evaluation that includes assessment of the key, golf-specific, physical performance elements of posture, balance, flexibility, strength, endurance and control.

3) Your fitness training program should first re-establish postural 'symmetry' and core (torso, spine, hips and shoulders) 'strength and stability' before building strength in your extremities (arms and legs).

4) Always integrate your golf fitness program with the other 'essential' golf performance factors of mental training, professional instruction and custom fit equipment.

5) Set specific, measurable goals and document your performance results.


If you follow these 5 basic 'keys', you will successfully and safely achieve a more 'powerful' swing. You might not keep up with the longest hitters on the PGA Tour, but you will gain more distance and confidence in your game ... and prevent needless injuries for a lifetime of enjoyable golf.