Why Does Traditional Golf Instruction Fail to Achieve Results for Many Recreational Golfers?

By Jim Fanara, CSCS

There’s no shortage of ways traditional golf instruction seeks to fix swings from YouTube videos to websites to lessons. So, why is it that when I talk to recreational golfers, so many are searching for answers to fix their games? Even with all the instruction that’s available.

 One reason is traditional instruction is based on improving golf swing technique, not on developing the physical capacities individual golfers need to improve.

 One of the most important physical capacities for solid ball striking is the ability to control the rotational forces in a golf swing. Many recreational golfers who struggle to improve don’t have the physical capacity to control rotational velocity.

 No amount of golf drills, lessons or technique advice will help fix many of the swing flaws that frustrate golfers if a golfer’s lower body can’t control the rotational velocity that’s built up at impact.

 But you don’t start working on improving rotational velocity control with high performance ballistic techniques like throwing a medicine ball against a wall as hard as you can or using devices that require high speed rotations against resistance bands.

 That’s not the starting point. You start with improving:

• Hip Strength and Mobility
• Single Leg Strength and Stability
• Lateral Stability

 A good place to start is with single leg exercises that challenge stability and balance. Even if a golfer works out, it’s not likely that the program uses many single leg stability and strength exercises.

 And you know what, these types of exercises not only help your swing, but they will help you move better every day.