Running and Golf

[TMO]

I know that there has been some discussion about a golf fitness thread. I personally am one of the people that thought that it might be a little dangerous to advise a one size fits all workout routine for golfers because I believe all workout routines should be designed for that person in particular. But I'm no expert mind you; I just have an experience getting injured when my own strength and conditioning coach was trying to bulk up the team.

With that said, I am trying to get back into playing shape and have decided to start a running program with my workout routine. It's probably not the hardest running program in the world but considering I have some left overs of my asthma and I haven't run since 2001 I thoroughly got my butt kicked this morning. The program is called "Running Trainer 5K" by AppLabs for the iPhone. It's meant to build me up to a 30 minute run.

Anyhow, how many other people are doing some sort of running program and what has your experience been?

[David in FL]

I'm a triathlete. I run, bike, and swim. The 3 combine to give me very good aerobic endurance, flexibility, and strength in the legs, core, and upper body that benefits my golf game.......even at age 50. Strength training alone isn't enough.

Prior to triathlon, I ran almost exclusively, though sporatically. I think that it's a great way for people to begin a fitness program, or like you, easy to add to a strength program. It's easy to do, inexpensive, and doesn't take much time, so it's more likely that you'll actually do it. Sounds like you're starting slow and easy, and that's good. Take your time, don't get hurt, and your overall health and strength will improve quickly.

Just remember, a body at rest tends to remain at rest. A body in motion tends to remain in motion. Keep at it, you won't regret it.

[McGolf-Doggie]

Did the couch to 5 K program -- modified it a lot for my age. Really enjoyed it. Although I mostly ran on the t'mill, with some outside running with the dog thrown in.

Having some issues with asthma/meds currently so my running is in the toilet. Hope to get back to it.

One thing to watch out for -- avoid sudden increases in distance/intensity or a too sudden switch from treadmill to road. Got plantar fasciitis a couple of times and it took a few months off from running/+special stretching exercises to get rid of it.

I had plenty of other sports to do in the mean time, mostly in the water so it was bearable.

[Wiley]

I don't know if it will make you a better golfer, but I bet you will feel better. I'm all for anything that gets someone moving. Personally I run about 10 miles a week.

[Doctorfro]

Frankly, I hate running. Soooo boring. But I can't argue with the results. Two years ago I tore the meniscus in my right knee while playing basketball (my number one sport, I'm a +2 handicap in hoops). Once I had it scoped my doctor suggested cycling as part of rehab. So I started cycling and lost about 15 lbs. Then winter set it. I then began walking/running on the treadmill. By then end of winter I'd lost 35 lbs. All in all now I've lost 55 lbs~. I try to exercise 5-6 days a week with a combination of either treadmill running/walking (one hour) or run outside or cycling (usually 25 miles). I wouldn't say I'm in excellent shape but I'm certainly not out of shape. I also supplement this exercise with walking nine holes here and there and also attending my sons golf matches where we follow him by walking (I can't stand the parents who rent a cart for that). But running is the staple of my regimen and although I hate it, it does good things for me and I'm seeing results on the course.

[shakogolfer78]

How do you like that app for the iphone. I was just wondering because I have the practice tee and the golf card (both great apps) and I need something to keep me fit and in shape for the upcoming season. I was wonderong what is the best running/fitness app for the iphone. Thanks

[Parker0065]

I'm running about 6-8 miles per week and mainly do it to keep my weight down more than anything.

As far as work outs I've recently started in on some "Core Strength" type workouts and I see why it's the rave of the PGA Tour. It makes you stronger without making you muscle bound, perfect for the golf swing! I have to admit that those exercise ball workouts that I thought would be too easy have kicked my butt,,,lol!!

[Ben]

Anyhow, how many other people are doing some sort of running program and what has your experience been?

I run. I think its fun. Never thought I'd run again after my ankle injury, but am glad I can again, although can get a little painful from time to time.

Anyway, when I first got back to it I was only on a treadmill and eventually worked my way up to 30 minutes on it. My treadmill routine is as follows: 2 minutes walking at 3.5mph to get warmed up 6.0 until the 10th minute 7.0 to minute 25. 7.5mph for 3.5 minutes 8.0 for 1.5 minutes and 9.0mph for the last 1.5 minutes. Got me to about 3.4 miles. I used to do this four times a week. Two times before the hour with my trainer. The other two days just on my own with an ab routine after. Now-a-days, on my off trainer days I run on the streets for 3 miles, after which I am at my gym (live across the street from my club, with the gym) and there I'll do some ab routine. On the two days I use my trainer I do a pyramid run to warm up. Something like this: 2 minute walk at 3.5 4 minute light jog at 5.0 6th minute at 6.0 7th at 7.0 8th at 8.0 9th at 9.0 10th minute I do side steps at 2.5 11th minute the other side at 2.5 Then off the train

[allin]

As a former college middle distance runner, I no longer run due to arthritic knees from all the years of running. I do 40-45 minutes 4-5 days a week alternating between an eliptical and bike. I use hill or cross country profiles when at the gym. I do bike outside when possible. I believe intervals are better than running at a steady pace. I also feel that the extra leg stength to do the profiles is probably better for golf than straight distance running. Your body gets so effecient you don't get as great a benefit if you only engage in one form of cardio and burnout is more likely.

[Jared]

I'll tell you what I told my wife. I can't exercise. Maybe you recall a player who was #1 in the world.

He decided to get into shape, and now he can't make cuts. I call it the Duval Effect.

[purple monkey dishwasher]

David Duval is in shape?? Dude had a pretty big gut on him when I saw him this past weekend.

[kleinrider]

I also do triathlons and i am sure the fitness i have helps in some way. I would think any sort of fitness program will help. I would think your biggest benefit you would get is if you run or any sort of cardio and some sort of core work along with some stretching.

Not that i do any core or stretching :)

[Power_fade]

I swim and bike to compliment muscular stregnth and flexibility exercises. Free Weights, Medicine Ball, Resistance Bands, and most importantly a Yoga ball are what I use. Cardio just increases the effect of this. As for running, you couldn't pay me to run.

[elchene]

I run 2 miles everyday. I feel terrible when I don't exercise.

[TMO]

How do you like that app for the iphone. I was just wondering because I have the practice tee and the golf card (both great apps) and I need something to keep me fit and in shape for the upcoming season. I was wonderong what is the best running/fitness app for the iphone. Thanks

I think it's too early to tell. I just started using it so I'll tell you when I know more.

[bogeyhitter25]

I run a lot because of baseball. The coach wants us to be a "running" team so we're running more than usual.

[Jay-Bird]

I used to run while playing golf sometimes if the course was empty. I had cast irons then. Now I won't – forged irons and all.

[Troof.]

I mainly do the elliptical, but when I'm feeling tough I'll run a couple miles