All professional golfers of the modern era have a staff of nutritionists, physiotherapists, mentors and their caddy working to make the most of the golfer’s capabilities on the course. The professional training regimen attempts to increase energy levels, strength and flexibility of the player. Amateurs do not have the disposable free time to complete the same level of off-course training, but they could still use the following key on-course performance approaches that the professionals use.

Hydration

If you watch professional golfers on the course you will witness them drinking water throughout the 18 holes. The key point to staying hydrated is to take sips of water while golfing. Once you start feeling thirsty it has become too late as this is a sign that your body is performing in a sub-optimum manner.

You could use sugar/caffeine drinks but be aware that this causes fluctuations in blood sugar levels that can cause similar peaks and troughs in how you play (for example, over hitting greens on one hole, short putting on the next).

Nutrition

All top athletes rightly realize that the nutritional content of their food prior to and during a game of golf can strongly affect their energy levels and performance in a round. Professionals normally choose to take several small meals throughout a day in order to maintain a consistent energy level and rhythm. Prior to a round of golf a favorite choice would be a small pasta/chicken fillet meal.

While on the course, the caddy will ensure the energy levels will stay topped up with bananas or other fruit (bananas are favored for their slow energy release).

Stretches

All professional athletes and golfers use stretching techniques and exercises such as Pilates and Yoga to improve their flexibility and reduce the chances of muscle strain. Staying flexible in the core area (stomach and back) is essential to keeping the golf backswing consistent and reducing the risk of muscle strain.

For the average golfer performing some simple stretches (lower back, legs & calves) prior to a round of golf will help warm the muscles up and reduce the risk of the back/legs stiffening up toward the end of a round.

Awareness

These simple pillars of performance are not rocket science. However, it is important to be actively aware of what your body is telling you during a round of golf so that you may remedy it the next time.

Being thirsty or becoming tired during a round are signs that you are not getting the water and food your body requires. Suffering body aches or pulling muscles are signs that your muscles are being over exerted and would benefit from some stretching exercises.

Practising your golf swing at the range is one way of perfecting your game, but you should also aim to improve your golfing performance through nutrition, hydration and stretches.

Looking for more golfing tips? Stop by Stephen’s site where you can discover the Perfect Golf Swing ebook. Each ebook comes with free extras covering golfing tips