How to Start A Fitness Program
By Steve Silverman
A fitness program can help golfers perform better, which leads to better enjoyment of the game. In the past, golf was seen as a rather sedentary activity. However, the game has changed to where out-of-shape professionals are the exception compared with decades ago. Golf might not be a physical test such as basketball or football, but golfers can walk up to 4 1/2 miles during an 18-hole round, and getting in top shape helps performance.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Get checked by your physician, especially if you have not exercised or worked out for several years. Before running and lifting weights, a full checkup is recommended.
Begin a walking or running program to build cardiovascular fitness. Start off by running (or walking) in your neighborhood. Jogging 1 1/2 miles is a great way to start and you can build from there. Use a good arm swing every time you walk or run, and think about your stride as well. Try to get more power in your stride once you feel comfortable in your running routine.
Build core strength by using an exercise ball to perform sit-ups and balancing exercises. Do two to three sets of 15 to 20 sit-ups three to four times a week.
Build strength and power by lifting weights. The bench press is a good weightlifting exercise for building strength in your chest and upper arms. You will need a spotter to help you when lifting weights that are heavy for you.
Change your diet by eating more high-protein and low-fat meals. Fat is the wrong fuel when you are exercising regularly. Fish and chicken are high in proteins. Eat as many fruits and vegetables as you can when you are exercising regularly and stay hydrated by drinking water frequently.
Tips & Warnings
Stretch out before and after every workout
About The Author
Steve Silverman is an award-winning writer, covering sports since 1980. Silverman authored The Minnesota Vikings: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly and Who's Better, Who's Best in Football -- The Top 60 Players of All-Time, among others, and placed in the Pro Football Writers of America awards three times. Silverman holds a Master of Science in journalism from the Medill School of Journalism.
