Effects of conditioning on physical fitness and club head speed in mature golfers.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of an 8-wk. conditioning program on selected measures of physical fitness and golf performance for 12 male and 5 female recreational golfers (M age = 52.4 yr., SD = 6.7 yr.). Measurements were made at baseline and following the intervention. The twice-per-week program consisted of strength training, flexibility, and plyometric exercises. Analysis of the pre- and posttest scores showed that conditioning was associated with significant increases in muscular strength, flexibility, and club head speed. Without a control group, the data suggest conditioning may be a worthwhile activity for mature golfers.