Get Fit for Golf!

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Summer is here and is in full ìswing.î For many of us, this means itís time to go and hit the linksif you can brave the sweltering heat and humidity that is!

A round of golf is a great way to spend a morning or late afternoon, and get away from the stress of the work week. However, many people find it quite a challenge to make improvements to their golf game. After all, it isnít quite so easy to ìput the ball in the hole,î as Happy Gilmore once famously stated. So if you feel this way when you play a round, one possible solution (other than lessons of course) is to give golf specific strength training a try.

Whether you are more or less a scratch golfer like myself, or if you are primed to hit the PGA tour, golf specific exercises can improve core stability, lower and upper body strength, flexibility, as well as balance. All of these components are vital in making consistent progress on the course. Check out this link for a great combination of moves that focus on improving power, mechanics, and flexibility (link). If youíre looking for a few of these exercises to do, just to get started, I highly recommend the golf squat, golf twist, power rotation w/clap, front and side leg swing, and window washers.

In any event, incorporating some of these exercises into your workout routine should help you to start hitting the course ready to make some birdiesor at least better your chances of staying out of the trees, water and/or sand.

Jamie Ives MA, CSCS, Master Trainer

Jamie has several years of experience in the fitness industry, working with clients of various ages, ability levels, and health conditions. He enjoys using his knowledge as well as his experience in exercise prescription and program design to help each of his clients reach their individual wellness goals and improve their quality of life. For more information about Empower Personal Training, please call (919) 401-8024.

Client Spotlight: George Livanos

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George is a Financial Advisor who came to Empower Personal Training to establish habits in order to live a long and healthy life. He trains three times per week with his trainer, Michael Whitehurst, and two or three times by himself.

We asked George how he achieved his training goals and he replied “It took me awhile to see the light, but once I realized that it is not just about what you do with your trainer, rather what you do in total, especially when not in the studio, did I realize my goals. Diet is so important. I’m not saying you have to deprive yourself of your favorite foods and drinks, just limit them.”

As far as results, George has seen a 15% decrease in body weight, decreased body fat, improved flexibility, lowered blood pressure, improved cardiovascular endurance, and improved core strength. He says he definitely has more energy, feels young again, and when asked if he feels more confident he replied “sometimes too confident!”

Finally we asked George if he has any advice to others that are interested in attaining specific health and fitness goals and here is his response: “Sure do. Throw the idea of losing weight out the door with the crazy diets. Slowly build a solid foundation of proper diet and exercise. The rest will follow as you improve on your results.”

Great job George and keep up the good work!