Tiger Woods has revolutionized golf in many ways. One thing that is clear, if you want to keep up with him, you better put some time in at the gym. Anthony Kim, a young up and comer on the PGA tour, is doing just that. Kim has taken a page out of Tiger's book and is incorporating golf-specific exercises into his workout routine. Check it out here.

 

 

 Although a round of golf may not be as gruelling as a triathlon, it still requires a certain amount of energy to play effectively, especially if you walk the course. Maintaining focus and concentration for 4 ½ hours, while taking 80-100 strokes, will take its toll. Here are 5 power foods to help boost your energy before and during your rounds.

1) Peanut butter: In fact most nuts are good for you. No more than a handful, or in the case of peanut butter, a tablespoon. Add some much needed potassium by making yourself a peanut butter and banana sandwich for the turn.

2) Apples: Yes not only do they keep the doctor away, but they will keep your energy up as well. Apples contain lots of boron, a mineral known to keep alertness levels high.

3) Oranges: Natures candy is full of vitamin C and natural sugars that are needed for the quick boost of energy that athletes covet. An added bonus: oranges are light and won’t give you that ‘full’ feeling.

4) Carrots: Bring a bagful of baby carrots with you to the course. They are known to stabilize blood sugar levels to fight off fatigue.  And if you believe your mom, eating these natural wonders will help you read those tough putts and find your lost ball.

5) Water: Perhaps the best thing for you while playing golf is water. Dehydration will only accelerate your mental and physical fatigue. Without the added sugars of power drinks, water, combined with any of the above snacks will keep refreshed and playing your best.

A Matter of Performance
by Andre Ferris

Now it pains me to say this but golf and beer just don't mix. To optimize performance on the golf course, golfers need to steer clear of the beer cart and head to the water fountain. It's a scientific fact that alcohol dehydrates while water and sports drinks hydrate the body. This is especially important on those hot summer days when the electrolytes are fleeing your body faster than they can be replaced.  You may not even realize it but things like your range of motion and mental focus are compromised by dehydration (both critical for golf as we all know). But all is not lost. There are no studies that I have read that say beer hampers you after the round. An ice cold beer with friends, discussing the ups and downs of the round, is almost as enjoyable as the game itself. Just drink responsibly.