Golf is a lifelong sport. I should know. I started on a 9-hole course in a very small village in New Zealand when I was 8, and I worked my way up the ranks to represent NZ at the Eisenhower Trophy (World Team Amateur event). From there I turned professional. I started with one day pro-ams, progressed to playing the Australian and European Tours, represented my country in a bunch of teams events, then reached the pinnacle of professional golf, the PGA Tour. That took up the first 42 years of my golfing journey. Since I turned 50, I’ve spent another 7 years travelling the world on the Senior tour. In fact, golf took me to 6 different countries in the last 8 weeks.
Just recalling all that makes me feel exhausted and sore.
As I look back to how I have played the game over the past 5 decades one thing I noticed is how my game has changed bit by bit over the years. In order to remain competitive and to get the best out of my game I have had to adapt and prioritise certain areas. Basically – I’ve had to acknowledge that I’m getting older and can’t do things on the golf course the way I did when I was 20!
Now as I rapidly approach 60, I am focusing on four areas that I consider will keep me competitive. Now, some of you reading this might be in your 20’s and think that this advice is not necessary. Believe me, in the blink of an eye you too will be 60 and you’ll wish you had kept these four basic suggestions as a part of your golfing journey.
Flexibility
I have a daily stretching routine. Although there are some golf specific stretches, most of the stretches are generic. It only takes around 10 minutes and I love the energised feeling after stretching. Maintaining a range of motion helps with balance, stability and posture.
Equipment
Thank goodness for technology. Look to change your equipment as you and your golf swing change. With the advances in technology, I can honestly say that over the years I haven’t really lost that much distance with my woods and my irons. Which is of great comfort to this old pro! But I have swapped out my 1 iron and 3 iron for hybrids. They are so much easier to hit and more versatile. I also took the time to find a golf ball that better matches my swing speed so that my smash factor is as good as it can be.
Strength
It’s no secret that over time, strength and muscle mass decline. It can lead to slower swing speeds and less stability in your swing. Having a fitness routine that works on your core, legs, and general strength can help preserve muscle mass and maintain stability and power in your swing.
Routine/Endurance
As one ages it’s often easy to forget that we’re not 18 any more. We can sometimes overdo things which can lead to a loss of energy, power and can lead to injuries. By adapting your routine you can play better and more enjoyable golf. So listen to your body and make adjustments. For example: If it is going to be hot, practice and play in cooler temperatures where possible. Being tired when playing not only affects concentration, but it can lead to an irritable golfer that makes poor decisions. Take time to recover properly before and after a round. Light stretching before a round and proper hydration are great ways to achieve this. If you are putting in hours of practice, but the results are not there consider practicing less. Spending time working on your short game rather than the long game. It is less taxing on the body and will more than likely help to reduce your scores. Consider playing nine holes instead of eighteen. Using a cart now and then instead of walking every-time is a great way to reduce fatigue. By making adjustments you can play enjoyable golf for longer.
So, getting older doesn’t mean the standard of your game has to suffer. By making adjustments to your equipment, working on your fitness and strength, and listening to your body you can keep your game strong and enjoyable.
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