Periodization Training For Golf

The idea of periodization has been around a very long time for athletes at all levels. The concept is simple. If you started with the goal in mind, let's say it was to win the Club Championship or place in the top 3 in your next Amateur event, then you would plan accordingly.

Generally, an annual plan is used, although it is not uncommon to use longer periods of time especially when working with a younger developing athlete.

Periodization occurs when you break down all of the segments into actual manageable parts, always keeping the long term goal in mind. Your master plan may be broken down into which phase you are in, for example, are you in your competitive stage or pre-competitive stage? This information is then used to determine which strategies offer the most benefit at any given point in time.

If you use a holistic approach to golf improvement, then you also periodize each important component as in the physical, mental, technical and strategic side.

While this many sound like a lot of information to track, this is the very point of periodization. Breaking down all of the important parts into simple tasks you can complete daily and/or weekly which fit comfortably and naturally into achieving your long term goal.

What is the real payoff for you? Well, just like the pros, when you prepare in this manner you leave nothing to chance. You have less margin for error and a higher probability of meeting or succeeding your goals.

To give you an idea of how to periodize a program for golf, first consider your competitive season, then employ the following ideas.

Phase 1 - Restoring optimal flexibility or range of motion in hips, spine and shoulders.

Phase 2 - Choose adaptation exercises where the main objective is to involve many muscle groups while preparing joints, tendons and ligaments for the work ahead. Build a solid base of support through stabilization exercises.

Phase 3 - Build strength. Consider increasing your loads, time under tension and create an opportunity for increased force production.

Phase 4 - Power production. Not you can convert all of your previous efforts to completion of the process where all energy is stored and transferred in efficient movement patterns for the benefit of your golf swing.

Phase 5 - Active recovery and rest. Don't forget that every body needs a recovery period so it can maintain gains made throughout the year while protecting the body from injury.

Susan Hill is a CHEK Golf Biomechanic, golf fitness columnist to Golf Illustrated and President of Fitness for Golf. For exercises targeted to lower your handicap and give you a competitive edge every time you play, then visit http://www.fitnessforgolf.com

---

What Night Golf Ball should I use for my Glow Ball event?

Believe it or not, there are three different types of... Read More

5 Easy Steps To Replacing Your Golf Grips

Replacing your golf grips is like servicing your car; you... Read More

Effective Golf Fitness Equipment

Golf fitness equipment is designed to help a golfer build... Read More

Fitness For Golf Isn?t Just For The Pros

Fitness for golf is a common term on the television... Read More

This Aint Golf! Its Cricket!

Go on, admit it, you have never read an article... Read More

Instruction For Swingers (Golf)

Could your golf swing use some improvement? You are in... Read More

Fitness Ball Training for Golf

There are many training tools available to help achieve better... Read More

Perform Better Golf By Training Your Body

What will it take to get you to perform better... Read More

Public Golf Courses ? Making The Right Choice

Chances are, if you're just starting out, you haven't decided... Read More

Myrtle Beach Tee Times ? A Quick Glance

Planning a golf vacation in Myrtle Beach? Here are six... Read More

Golf Practice Equipment Can Pave The Way For Better Golf

There is a great deal of equipment on the market... Read More

Mental Concentration, Golf, and You

All players, when they are concentrating on a stroke, are... Read More

A Golf Fitness Exercise Program Will End Your Frustration On The Course

Even as you read this article, golf fitness exercise programs... Read More

Mental Toughness for Golfers: Avoiding Comfort Zones in Golf

A comfort zone becomes a problem whenever a player is... Read More

Ice Golf - Could You Stay Cool When The Heat Is On?

Ice Golf - only the coolest need apply!Want to try... Read More

Left Handed Golf Tips

Where do you find left handed golf tips? You find... Read More

Play Better Longer - Peak Performance For Golf!

The golf swing is a dynamic movement that demands precise... Read More

How Do The Golf Pros Train?

Many of the top touring professionals know that winning on... Read More

The Psychology of a Confident Golf Swing Part 2

Here in England we are on the verge of the... Read More

Quick Golf Tips for Restoring Muscle Imbalances

As a golf biomechanic, my focus is on looking for... Read More

Play Exclusive Las Vegas Golf Courses ? The Not-So-Secret Secret

Experience the luxury of tour-class caddies. Play the private golf... Read More

Hogans Real Golf Secret

Ben Hogan's secret was his extraordinary ability to focus. This... Read More

Golf Fitness Training Equals Better Golf

If you've watched any golf on the television you've no... Read More

The Best Golf Aids

You are an avid golfers always looking for the best... Read More

Annika Sorenstam- The Legendary Female Golfer

Even those not normally interested in golf, usually recognize the... Read More

Essential Information on Choosing the Best Golf Clubs to Suit Your Game

Most golfers, whether a beginner or a pro, struggle when... Read More

Golf Strength Training Is The Missing Link To A Great Game

Golf strength training is the quickest way to add yards... Read More

Are You Wearing the Right Golf Shoes When You Golf?

For those of you that golf you know that golf... Read More

Golf Tips ? The Secret and Crucial Role of Alignment in Supercharging Your Game!

The alignment is an absolutely crucial and vital part to... Read More

Do You Understand Golf Club Swing Weight

Golf club swing weight. Have you heard that term before?A... Read More

What a Load of Golf Balls

Through out the history of golf the golf ball has... Read More

The Perfect Golf Swing Is Within Your Reach

The perfect golf swing IS achievable for any senior golfer!Actually... Read More

Fitness For Golf Is A Must For Senior Golfers

Fitness for golf is a common term and senior golfers... Read More