If you want to be a caddy, you need to be in good shape. Here are his 5 training tips from a golf fitness coach.
Getty Images
It wasn’t that long ago that people thought golfers weren’t athletes. So is the outdated notion that all caddies are lazy, smokers, and scoffers. Be real. Today’s smocked men and women are more integral to the professional game than ever before. Part stats geek, part guru, part pack mule, part therapist, the typical looper is both the center of the action and a side player. This week’s continuation (and his January/February page in GOLF Magazine) is filled with snapshots of life and information about the game.
ICYMI: 9 important lessons every caddy should learn from a professional caddy.
ICYMI: 10 things a professional caddy will tell you about your game.
ICYMI: Joe LaCava talks about what it takes to carry the bags of the game’s greats.
ICYMI: 3 Drills to Improve Your Game from a Pro Caddie
ICYMI: 3 essential travel tips from 3 travel-savvy pro caddies.
Carrying a 40-pound stuff bag on your back and traveling 8 miles round trip up and down hills without having to worry about getting a courtesy car back and forth takes some serious coordination. If you listen to Caddy’s 10-page inspirational story and think, “Hmm, I’m on a loop!”, increase these exercises to 12-15 reps for her and 3 sets for him.
1. Legs: Goblet squat
Squats with kettlebells or dumbbells not only build muscle but also develop your endurance for long daily rounds.
2. Shoulders: From standing bicep curls to shoulder presses
Lifting a bag puts strain on your shoulders and biceps over and over again. This double whammy exercise will make your movements much easier.
3. Core: Anti-rotation with cable
Hoofing the stuff bag puts strain on your posture. This exercise mimics that stress and works your entire core.
4. Conditioning: Treadmill with weighted vest
This mimics the work of a t-shirt. Set the treadmill to the right pace and change the incline as needed to simulate walking on a hilly course like Augusta National Park.
5. Ice bath
Treat your body to ice baths, use foam rollers for your legs (especially your calves), and don’t forget to stay hydrated. To the old caddy wisdom of “Come out, do your best, and shut up,” add “Pump up!”
