Golf’s Other “X” Factor, That Instructors Overlook

By Jim Fanara, CSCS

The "X" factor in golf is the amount of hip and shoulder separation you can achieve in your swing.

There is another "X" factor that is important but rarely discussed in golf lessons or videos.

It was originally known as syndrome "X", now referred to as metabolic syndrome.

 Even though metabolic syndrome rarely mentioned by golf coaches, it’s more important than any swing advice you’ll find.

 Because, if you’re over 50 years of age and live in the U.S, there’s a good chance you have it whether you know it or not.

 Here’s why this is an important topic.

 Understanding metabolic syndrome is crucial because it increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, cancer, and neurodegenerative issues.

 Addressing metabolic syndrome is essential, particularly if one has chronic illnesses, as these can impact overall physical performance, including playing golf.

 If you’re fighting a chronic illness, improving your golf swing is most likely way down the list of your priorities. And even if  golf is high on your priority list, it’s hard to improve performance or even play when you’re sick. 

 It only gets worse as you age unless you address the issues.

 What is metabolic syndrome?

• Weight gain indicated by a waist of 40 inches for men and 35 for women
• Elevated triglycerides
• Low HDL-C
• High blood pressure
• High fasting glucose

Or taking medication to address these issues.

Having metabolic syndrome is defined as having three or more of these conditions. Even one of these factors can increase the risk of chronic disease.

Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a foundational role.

A key understanding about metabolic syndrome is that mitochondrial dysfunction plays a foundational role either as a cause or an exacerbator. Addressing mitochondrial dysfunction can help mitigate the effects of metabolic syndrome.

Although mitochondrial dysfunction may seem complex, many of the solutions are within your capabilities right now.

Here are a few places to start. 

• Eating healthy, non-processed foods free from antibiotics, pesticides, and other toxins
• Getting the proper amount of sleep
• Spending time outside, especially in the morning
• Engaging in exercises that improve oxygen utilization and fat burning capacities
• Increasing non-exercise activities such as gardening, dance classes, home improvement projects, and house cleaning

Further details on each recommendation can provide a more comprehensive approach, but basic steps like eating healthily, moving more, and spending time outdoors are great places to start.

For more information, exercise, and mobility techniques, visit our YouTube channel.

Also, the programs on our website will help you get started with training plans to help you move better and feel better every day. Moving better and feeling better every day is the secret of the top performers.

 We are committed to providing our community with more information about metabolic syndrome and strategies to help prevent it.