Recently I have been going to visit trainers and gyms in Calgary that offer golf fitness programs. For me the visits have been very educational and inspiring! As with the golf swing there are many techniques and theories on how to hit the ball. In fitness, there are many ways to improve strength, agility, power, and flexibility. Which is right for you? What are your goals? Do you know what your body limitations and strengths are? This is where I would start – have a thorough Physical Assessment to identify the areas in yourgolfbody that needs to be addressed and get educated on the best strategy to improve that limitation. Sometimes exercise alone will not improve dysfunction – look to a medical professional to help correct these imbalances: physiotherapist, massage therapist, chiropractor…etc. BUT REMEMBER – what you have corrected through passive strategies (the hands of others) you need to support actively (exercises). What can YourGolfBody do?

Challenge is an 18 week challenge that runs from Jan 01 2012 to May 05 2012.
Goal: Increase your activity level and improve your fitness level before golf season starts up here in Calgary (ie snow melts and courses start to open).
Rules:

1 WorkOut = 30 + minutes of cardiovascular exercise (increase that heart rate) or Resistance Exercise Session, Yoga Class, Video Exs Routine etc.

3 WorkOuts a Week = Par for the Week
4 WorkOuts at Week = Birdie (-1)
2 WorkOuts a Week = Bogie (+1)
1 WorkOut a Week = Double Bogie (+2)
NO WORKOUTS = TRIPLE BOGIE (+3)
5 WorkOuts a Week = Eagle (-2)
Over 5 WorkOuts = Eagle (-2) and Good Work Congrats to YOU!!

Track your Numbers and See if you can reach that magic “Fitness 54”

Let me know how it’s going – Tweet me @yourgolfbody

Here in Calgary Alberta – the ground is frost covered and the greens are starting to freeze from the cool prairie nights. Greens keepers hurry to put the course to “bed” for the winter – and protect it from the icy snow that is just around the corner. Golf season outside has come to an end.
BUT – there are options to keep your game and body in good form for the Winter Trips to Palm Springs, Phoenix, or Hawaii! Here are some things you can do:
1. Find out your golf body strength and weaknesses! It could be stability, strength,power, or mobility. Get yourself assessed and build on the findings.
2 Golf Domes are open all year round – busy in the winter, but still a great way to keep your swing grooved. Not grooved? Speak to a CPGA teaching pro at one of these facilities to get your swing working for you.
3. Don’t forget the heated outdoor ranges like GOLF CANADA CENTER! Watch your ball fly past where it would in the dome…still can be chilly out! Bring your warm clothes.
4. Work on your fitness! The time you spent on the course can now be spent doing an effective and efficient workout program. Ask a trainer where to start if you are not certain.
5. Putting: there are many short carpet places to practice your putting. You can even do this at home!
6. Read up on the mental aspect of the game – Rotella has many books that key into peak performance. Vision 54 by Marriott and Nilsson – Play your best golf now!
7. Book your trip to a sunny green destination – this carrot dangling infront of you will keep you motivated!

Golf Season in Calgary starts when the snow melts! It is just 11 weeks before the 1st of May – this is a great time to start thinking about Yourgolfbody and if you are ready for the season to begin! Flexibility work and Strengthening golf muscles that have been dormant like the grass here in Calgary is an easy way to prevent injury and start the season with more confidence.