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This is the second year for Jack Nicklaus'
project involving aspiring professional golfers. It's called
"The Golden Bear Tour." Last season, PGA National Fitness
Trainers attended nearly every event. What were they doing
there?
"Get stretched by PGA National Fitness
Trainer," says the very inviting sign at every Golden Bear
Tour event. PGA Trainers, such as Aaron, Frank, and Scott,
are taking these tour players (first come, first served),
through a series of assisted stretches. Players are welcome
to be stretched before they hit balls or just prior to
teeing off for their round.
An average of more than twenty players
took advantage of the program that mimics what PGA, Senior
PGA and LPGA players take for granted - outstanding
stretching by certified instructors. Some players want you
to follow their own personal stretching routine, but the
majority want all of their super-tight muscles
stretched.
All of the Golden Bear Tour players
receive a fitness assessment. This consists of muscular
strength and endurance tests, body fat analysis and lower
back range of motion. Because of the Golden Bear Tour,
dozens of players worked out with fitness trainers at PGA
National last season.
Golfers need to be on a specific
conditioning program, one that is not generic. Everyone's
build is slightly different. Based upon your body type and
overall fitness levels, an individualized program can be
designed. This program can be constantly altered, depending
on the golfers' playing schedule.
One of these players, Taylor Tipton of
Texas, was just starting an exercise routine. The following
exercises being demonstrated can be done by any level golfer
to improve flexibility, as well as to achieve greater upper
body strength.
It's never too early or too late to
include exercise into your program. The Golden Bear Tour has
adopted its founder's philosophy on the subject of fitness
and golf. According to Jack Nicklaus, who was recently
featured on CNN's Larry King Live, "Flexibility and strength
are vital for retaining your extension in the golf swing.
Keeping a physical edge against your competition is an
important factor in playing to win."
The Golden Bear Tour is underway for its
second season. Why don't you commit to getting in shape like
many of the best young golfers? It just might help your golf
swing, and you'll definitely feel better.
Until September, keep pumpin'.
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Upper Back Stretch.
Set up several books or pillows and you have a great way to
improve your golf posture. Hold this stretch for several
minutes and you'll feel an inch or two taller. Keep hands
interlocked behind head, with elbows back; hold for 60
seconds.
One-arm Isolation
Curls.
The rest of your upper arm is biceps muscles.
Isolating them requires good form on the curling motion. To
help eliminate potential elbow problems, refrain from
bending your wrist during an isolation curl. It's OK for
golfers to work their biceps. Try 3 sets of 10 reps for
quick results.
Triceps Dips.
A great upper body strength producer for the shoulders and
arms. Two-thirds of your upper arm is triceps muscles, so
keeping them fit is vital for golf performance. Start with 2
sets of 10 repetitions. Do them regularly and you'll feel
the improvement.
Wall Hamstring
Stretch.
Lay flat on the floor. Put one heel on the wall, extended as
high as possible. Keep derriere on floor and hold this
position for 30 seconds; then switch sides. Perform this
stretch before and after playing.
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