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FITNESS

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Follow Through

Getting started with a fitness program is great, but you need to stick with it if you want to see the benefits.

BY MIKE HANSENPublished: January, 2006

Southland Golf’s editor and associate publisher, Eric Marson, is undergoing a complete, six-month body transformation to improve his health and golf game. His progress will be updated each month.

Each year brings hope for a new beginning. As Eric Marson and I approach the end of his six-month golf and body makeover, I’ve given him five resolutions to follow in 2006. These pertain to his golf game as well as his fitness program.

>> Practice once a week
Marson has discovered muscles he never knew existed. Now that he has control over them, I’ve asked him to practice his swing keeping those muscles in mind. He now has a stronger core, which will help with distance, and he has more body control, which will help with a consistent swing and improved accuracy.


>> Make wise food choices
This is not a diet. It simply involves common sense when it comes to desserts, alcoholic beverages and portion sizes. Now that he’s educated on complex carbohydrates, lean proteins and healthy fats, he can include them in each meal and eat a balanced diet.

>> Walk when possible
Walking a golf course is a great form of exercise, whether you pull your clubs or carry them. You can burn an extra 300 to 500 calories by walking 18 holes, plus the musculature benefit it has on your legs is incredible. If the course doesn’t require carts, walk.

>> Stretch five to seven times a week
Stretching (see illustrations at right) is the most overlooked aspect of fitness, yet it’s easy and takes little time. Strength training causes the muscles to become tighter, which can hinder the golf swing. Stretching before play or practice is  important to loosen and warm the muscles. Visit www.healthygolfer.com to view a good warm-up routine.

>> Stick to the fitness program
Five months of weight, cardiovascular and flexibility training have given Marson a solid base. Now it’s up to him to stick with the routine so he can continue to improve his game and quality of life.

If you’ve decided that this is the year to get your game and body in shape, contact a fitness expert to learn the most effective and efficient steps to take.

Mike Hansen runs Hansen Fitness Company in Irvine. He can be reached at (949) 251-0533.

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