Did you get a chance to watch the British Open this year? It was hard not to be excited and get behind Greg Norman. He looks great, doesn't he? Most golfers know he was one of the original pioneers of golf fitness. His commitment to exercise and in keeping a fit body is pretty evident.
Then, there was the amazing story of Padraig Harrington. Apparently, he sustained a significant wrist injury about a week prior to the Open. Most golf commentators were saying he wasn't going to be a contender in the event. He sprained his right wrist slamming his driver into an impact bag in a training session.
It seems like the last couple of tournaments have been focusing on which players are injured and the extent of their injuries. It reminds me when I made the big transition between training recreational golfers to training the pros. I used to think my job was to improve golf performance. You're probably thinking...of course, Susan...your job is to improve performance for your players! Well...that is true. But, it is not the primary issue. The number one most critical concern with training any professional athlete is to AVOID and PROTECT against injury. Then, the secondary goal is to improve performance.
I bet that makes sense, doesn't it? If you improve your game overall through fitness, but get a significant injury, then you're out. When we talk about professional athletes, there is so much riding on them just showing up. As you already know, a golfer who continues to miss the cut, isn't making any money at all. There is also the sponsorship side of the business. Big companies want to stand behind players who are good solid players, good role models and who can best represent their products.
Hopefully, you are not battling an injury at this point in the season. However, if you are, check out our section on Injury Rehabilitation Workouts.
