Winged Foot

[GolfFitPro]

I just got back from Winged Foot.  I went out really early to beat the crowds and got a chance to walk the front nine before the pros went out.  What an awesome course, it's eating some of those guys alive, Tiger included. 

Because I work with golfers on their fitness, I can't help but focus on the condition that some of these guys are in when watching them.  Although most of the guys out there were in great shape, it still puzzles me to see these overweight guys lagging behind unable to keep up, looking like they could use a good nap.

Golf is such a grind, especially the US Open! 

I caddied in the Open at Shinnecock in 1995 (that's us at 18 green on Thursday) and it was a really rough week, both physically and mentally for the pro I was caddying for, my buddy John Reeves.  We spent 12 hours at the course Monday and Tuesday, and another 6 on Wednesday.  We played 81 holes in those 3 days (and hit balls from different locations), not to mention time on the range, the chipping green, the putting green and at the practice bunker.  Thursday and Friday were long days as well, getting there early to make sure we were properly prepared for the day.  The week was physically exhausting and we didn't even make the cut!

There is also the mental stress of trying to play well and being in front so many people.  Stress does a number on your body.

It can be really hot out here sometimes, and the sun can kick your butt (as it was doing today), especially when you are waiting on almost every hole.

The point is, as it always is on this blog, is that fitness is such an important part of the overall picture in golf for so many reasons.  Today really reinforced my belief that if some of these guys don't get their fat butts in shape, they are not going to have the career longevity they would like.

Fitness isn't just for pros.  Amateur and recreational golfers benefit as well.  You will feel better, play better, play more and enjoy the game so much more.  Isn't that what it's all about?

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