“High load” is relative to the individuals strength level, but usually refers to something greater than 85% of the 1 repetition maximum (1RM) in that exercise (1RM = while maintaining proper technical execution of the lift). Complex Training - A Simple Method To Increase Strength & Power For Golfers:Ĭomplex training (CT), sometimes referred to as Contrast Training is a training method which combines a high load strength exercise, and a lower load velocity or power based exercise, of similar movement patterns into an “exercise pairing”. We know distance is important, and we know club head speed is a critical element, and the limiting factor for distance, so let’s now delve into a very practical method of training designed to target some of the physical qualities necessary to improve yours.Ģ. When you can’t reach holes in regulation that you once could, it can be a long day on the course, and it makes scoring well extremely difficult.
I’ve spoken to many golfers who have lost some enjoyment from the game due to a decline in physical condition, and a subsequent loss in distance. You may not have any aspirations of a 120mph club head speed, but for the amatuer golfer, improving club head speed is very useful for lowering scores, and making / keeping the game enjoyable.
Power to the people strength professional#
Distance pays, especially in the professional ranks where everyone is already highly skilled. The table above illustrates what we already know about professional golf. I could not find these statistics for the Web.com tour, or top college players, but it would make for interesting comparison. # Of Players Averaging Over 119mph On PGA TourĪs can be seen from the table, there is a definite trend towards 120mph becoming more commonplace, and it will be interesting to see how it changes over the next few years. It’s an important metric for everyone to know and track, as it dictates your distance potential. If you don’t know your club head speed, I recommend getting it measured. Researching this article I thought it would be interesting to track the trend of how many players have averaged over 120mph clubhead speed in a season on the PGA Tour. With the changes in modern equipment, and as more explosive athletes have started to play the game, 120mph club head speeds which used be considered the “holy grail” of club head speed, are now becoming more common, and 130mph is now the new benchmark. To go from a stationary position to moving the golf club at this speed requires a lot of force, and will likely require appropriate and progressive long term physical training, unless you are very lucky genetically. A growing percentage of golfers can achieve 120mph club head speed. This means we need to be able to produce a lot of force in a short period of time, similar to jumping, throwing and hitting athletes.
The golf swing for the “long game”, especially when shot distance is one of the key elements, is reliant on an extremely high velocity, high force, “explosive” movement. The physical demands for a powerful golf swing are often misunderstood. The Relevance Of Training To Increase Power: Important Considerations For Implementing Complex Training.ġ. Sample Workouts - Complex Training Exercise Combinations For Golfers. The Relevance Of Training To Increase PowerĬomplex Training - A Simple Method To Increase Strength & Power In Golfers. The Benefits Of Complex Training For Power Development In Golfers