The 18STRONG Podcast: Golf | Golf Fitness | Mental Game | Nutrition

Power. Almost every golfer I have worked with, at one time or another, has asked “how can I hit the ball farther?” or “how can I get more distance?” And in most instances, it leads back to being more powerful. From amateur to professional, power is an integral part of progressing your golf game, which is why today I’ve brought on Brad Thompson from Elevate Sports Performance and Chiropractic. Based out of Nevada, Brad is going to walk us through their process of testing for power, training for power, the factors to hitting a ball farther, and why it is so important in your quest to play better golf. Brad Thompson’s Background * Brad Thompson is not only a performance coach but also a former competitive golfer, which gives him the edge to know both sides of the coin. * Brad’s Certifications include NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, TPI Level 2 Fitness, Junior, and Power Coach, Functional Movement Screen Level 1, USAW Level 1 Weightlifting Coach, StrongFirst Level 1 Kettlebell Instructor, Functional Range Conditioning Mobility Specialist, and Precision Nutrition Level 1 Nutrition Coach. * Brad participates in golf tournaments and long-drive competitions. When he’s not training or golfing, he spends the rest of his time with his family—girlfriend Sanoe and daughter Rya. Highlights from this Episode * Brad kicks the episode off by talking about what he does at Elevate and the benefits of having a chiropractor in-house, as well as the difference between mobility and stability issues he sees and how many times when we are looking for flexibility it’s not our hips physically can’t turn that extra 20 degrees, we just don’t have full control of that aspect of our movement yet. * The lessons he learned from competing in long-drive and how he applies that personal experience in working with his clients on a day-to-day basis. This ranges from what the major components of swing technique and training that determine how far you can hit a ball. * Differentiating between strength and power. How they are often used synonymously despite the big difference, how to train those separately, and when to train for power versus strength. * The formula you can use at home for measuring your power output to give you a better understanding of where your power is and isn’t. This also helps you realize where you are more dominant: Upper body or lower body. * Brad’s favorite exercises and tools to use when focusing on power training and his philosophy of keeping it simple: from kettlebell swings, weighted jumps, and dumbbell snatches. He also talks about balancing out mobility with power and strength training to keep the workout well-rounded, and prerequisites Brad looks for before trying these with his clients. Parting Questions . . . Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore?  Caddy Shack “Walk-Up” Song:   Hate Me Now by Nas Who would you play 18 holes with?  Ben Hogan at Augusta Last Piece of Advice?    Get assessed, figure out your weak points, and attack them. Find more on Brad Thompson and Elevate Sports Performance and Chiropractic at: Elevatespc.com Instagram Twitter Facebook Episode Sponsors SuperSpeed Golf Join The 18STRONG Movement! If you listened to the very end of this episode, then you know that there is a movement happening in golf and fitness.  To join, simply follow this link to the private Facebook group and ask to join!  Once you’re accepted,

Have you ever been watching golf and seen pros like Justin Rose, Adam Scott, and Lydia Ko on the green getting ready to putt and you see them do the same kind of ritual (walking between the ball and the cup, rocking back and forth, closing their eyes, putting two fingers in the air) and then they drain the putt! Today we are talking to Mark Sweeney, the creator of the AimPoint Golf putting system, that over 100 of these touring professionals are using, where he is going to break down exactly what it consists of, how you can use it, and how you can take it into your game. So often when we get to the green, we are trying to get the lay of the land and it can be all over the place but Mark brings his background as a software engineer into the world of golf and helps players be able to strategically read greens. Mark Sweeney’s Background * Mark Sweeney is the inventor and founder of AimPoint Technologies. He developed the AimPoint Virtual Putting Line and is the developer of the AimPoint Green Reading System; the most used green-reading method in the world. * He won an Emmy in 2008 for the George Wensel Technical Achievement Award for his AimPoint Virtual Putting Line, which was shown on Golf Channel from 2007 until 2012. * He has taught more than 100 tour players including World #1 Ranked players Adam Scott, Lydia Ko, Stacy Lewis, and Yani Tseng. Other students include PGA TOUR players Ian Poulter, Padraig Harrington, Justin Rose, Brian Gay, Dicky Pride, Zach Johnson, Daniel Summerhays, JB Holmes, and LPGA Tour Players Na Yeon Choi, Amy Yang, Christina Kim, Julie Inkster, Beatrice Recari, Azahara Munoz, Belen Mozo, Anna Norqvist, and many others. * Mark was voted one of the Best Teachers in Florida and nominated for Golf Digest Best 50 Teachers in the U.S. in 2015 and 2017. Highlights from this Episode * Mark Sweeney talks about his background in software development allowed him to develop, analyze, create, and perfect his AimPoint system from both theoretical and applicable standpoints. From the initial challenges of getting 3D imaging of the topography of golf greens (with limited technology back in 2003,) getting the physics just right, and the pressure to get it right the first time. * How being forced to simplify this technique snowballed into implementing his findings with junior players using the thumb technique to gauge distance and break. He talks about how the method works due to its reliability and resiliency on courses around the world. * Tips and tricks you can begin to use next time you go out on the course to best understand the slope using a digital leveler and the finger method, * Overcoming the optical illusions that come with your sense of sight and relying on your sense of feel, and what results you can expect from it. * What his clinics look like for players as well as certification programs for coaches and golf professionals and how to set up a clinic in your area. * Mark explains why the range of 4-6 feet putts are usually the most uncomfortable and are likely the most crucial to spend time perfecting. Parting Questions . . . Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore?  Caddy Shack “Walk-up” Song?  Thunderstruck by AC/DC Who would you play 18 Holes with:   Scarlett Johansen at Augusta What are the pros doing differently than us?  Their aim is always within 1 degree and they tend to be more relaxed. Parting advice:  Putting is a lot easier than people think if you understand how to read greens. It will transform your putting game if you know what to look for. Find Mark Sweeney: Website:  AimPointGolf.com Twitter:  @AimPointGolf

When we go out and start a new fitness program, diet, practice program, we are ultimately trying to change our behaviors. This boils down to the habits we create on a daily basis and what we can stick to, which is why I’m excited to have my personal friend Dr. Kara Graziano O’Leary, Ph.D on today. Dr. O’Leary, is a clinical psychologist with a research background in social psychology and neuropsychology and she joins me today to talk about clinically what is working the best and how we can relate her background to what we are seeing in the fitness world and what you are personally experiencing during your trials and tribulations of trying to obtain your goals. We cover everything from the importance of sleep, how to best stack your goals, creating habits, and the idea of “decision fatigue.” Dr. Kara Graziano O’Leary’s Background * Her training includes a bachelor’s degree from Boston College, a master’s degree from Columbia University, and a Ph.D. from Long Island University in clinical psychology. * Her professional experience includes work at the New York State Psychiatric Institute with Bradley S. Peterson and Andrew Gerber on brain and behavior research in relation to impulse control disorders, especially substance use and eating disorders. * Previously, she worked in the Bay Area as a counselor for sexual assault survivors and later for homeless families at San Francisco’s Haight Ashbury Free Clinics.  Upon moving to St. Louis, she continued her work in the field of eating disorders at Washington University, serving as a family therapist with Denise Wilfley’s interpersonal psychotherapy-based study on weight loss. * She later completed her clinical psychology internship and post-doctoral training at the St. Louis Veterans Administration Medical Center, and now practices at the St. Louis Veterans Administration Mental Health Clinic, working with veterans recovering from a wide range of diagnoses, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, eating and substance use disorders. * Her practice focuses on integrating psychology research to help patients with behavior change. She is a member of the VA’s Cultural Competency Council and serves as the Diversity Specialist for its Training Council. Highlights from this Episode  Kara dives into the science of sleep, how she approaches sleep with different patients, and  how to start taking steps towards implementing good sleep habits. From charting your sleep to defining a “natural sleep rhythm,” Kara goes into detail on not only the importance of sleep but also how we can start to treat it differently. So often we set goals we really want to achieve (be it personal or fitness related,) but often struggle to achieve them. Dr. O’Leary shares insights from Daniel Kahneman, often called the father of “Behavioral Economics,” about how we experience life through two different lenses: The Experiencing Self (moment to moment in daily life) and The Remembering Self (Orders and Catalogues the day in retrospect.) Using this model, she explains how we tend to over-value our shortcomings and failures and undervalue our success’ and small victories. The importance of starting small when setting goals. We tend to try and shoot for the moon when setting an objective to reach, but always end up kicking ourselves when we naturally fall short. The importance of keeping your goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely.) How to balance thinking positively and not being too hard on yourself, with being realistic in attaining goals. Tips and tricks to fighting “Decision Fatigue,” the idea that throughout the day the many decisions we make drain us mentally leading us to make impulsive decisions or to avoid goals altogether. She provides some tips to help us reinforce our intentions and achieve our goals. Things like having healthy alternatives on hand,

When it comes to fitness and training tailored to the female athlete, many health professionals are still in dark. If you (like me) think that fitness for golfers is still in its infancy stages, then today’s topic is still just in the womb! Janet Alexander is the perfect guest to have on to teach us how the female golfer should be training, how their workouts should be dictated by their body, and how planning their workouts appropriately can dramatically improve the effectiveness in areas such as accelerated fat loss, prevent injury, strength, and power development. Janet is a 35-year veteran of the health and fitness industry and co-owner of Pacific Fitness and Health, Inc. a private studio in Encinitas, California. Janet’s disciplined, and scientifically based approach to strength and conditioning has helped mold her into a knowledgeable and sought after fitness professional and has allowed her to work with a wide range of athletes in a variety of sports. Pacific Fitness and Health and Janet’s progressive and pioneering program design has not only culminated in wins on the professional golf tours, but also has resulted in good hormonal health for her stable of female athletes. Janet Alexander’s Background * She is an instructor for the Titleist Performance Institute Certification course (Level 3 Fitness), is T.P.I. Certified, has appeared on the Golf Channel with Dr. Greg Rose and Dave Phillips, founders of the Titleist Performance Institute speaking on fitness for females and sits on the Titleist Advisory Board as a member of the Fitness & Exercise Board. * Not one to rest on her past academic achievements in the field of physical education and sports science, Janet has now chosen to extend her knowledge base further and is currently studying Osteopathy -Soma Training and Soma Therapy, two three year programs under the guidance of internationally recognized French Osteopath DO, Physiotherapist and Doctorate of Medicine Dr. Guy Voyer. * Her fresh yet focused, holistic approach to wellness and health has also been used to her own advantage as a successful competitive age group triathlete, runner, cyclist and cross-country skier * Janet’s Approach: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. Highlights from this Episode * Janet Alexander kicks off the episode sharing about how she flipped from fitness to the corporate world, ultimately ended at fitness to build her client base and business and how she first got into golf in 1998. * Why there isn’t a lot of direction as to how to work specifically with female golfers when it comes to strength training and physical preparedness as opposed to “just going and lifting weights like the guys.” * The important questions her female athletes come to her with, as pertaining to their workout regiment, and the questions female athletes should be asking their trainers. She also dives into the challenge of fighting body image issues when working with junior athletes and diets. * Janet talks about how to design programs for female athletes once you check and clear all the different health boxes (e.g. diet, a regular menstrual cycle, hormonally balanced,) and what regiments to do at what time to optimize performance output and minimize injury based on the female anatomy. * She gives advice to the male trainers working with female athletes on what to think about and how to approach touchy/taboo topics. Parting Questions . . . Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore? Caddy Shack If you could pick a walk up song for the first tee box, what would it be?Thunderstruck by AC/DC If you could play golf with anyone in the world, who would it be and where would you play?  I would play Alice Cooper or Danny Devito at St. Andrews Any parting advice for the 18Strong Community?

Dr. Melvin Deese and Evan Hugall from Imapct Cryotherapy join us this week to discuss the surge of increased use of a relatively new technology (cryosaunas/cryochambers) that has evolved from an age old practice; crypotherapy. In recent years, cryotherapy chambers have been studied and used to help treat issues of inflammation and recovery amongst general population clients and athletes alike.  As of recently, there have been noted very possible benefits of the modality not just for rehabilitative and preventative use, but also for enhanced performance in the training room, sports fields, and yes, most importantly, the golf course. In this episode, Dr. Dees and Evan help us understand the technology/modality better and share how golfers at all levels are using it in attempt to lower scores. Background: Impact Cryotherapy, Dr. Deese, and Evan Hugall Dr. Deese * Dr. Deese serves as the Medical Director of Impact Cryotherapy and is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and foot and ankle specialist. * He has worked and trained with some of the most notable sports medicine specialists in the world and has cared for patients and treat sports injuries from the professional and collegiate ranks to high school and recreational athletes. * His ground-breaking research on calcaneocuboid ligament sprain has drawn national and international attention. * Throughout his career as an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Deese has been committed to seeking new and innovative means to improve the health and lifestyles of patients and athletes at large. That interest in improving performance and enhancing lives drew him to Impact Cryotherapy. Now, blending his vast knowledge of biometrics and our natural recuperative abilities, he serves as a crucial checkpoint for ongoing product development. * Dr. Deese is also the founder of Summit Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery and has extensive experience in treating sports injuries and rehabilitation. Evan Hugall * Senior Sales Specialist at Impact * One of the core team who launched Impact Cryotherapy, Evan Hugall has now administered 20,000+ cryosauna sessions and is a total pro at putting first-timers at ease. * Having seen so many life-changing moments since the beginning, Evan’s top desire for the company is to see Impact cryosaunas helping people all around the world. Impact Cryotherapy * The success of Impact Cryotherapy is noteworthy. In the short life of the company, Impact Cryotherapy has become the leading manufacturer and seller of cryosaunas in the US, having sold 360+ units in 39 states and 7 foreign countries. No other cryosauna or cryochamber manufacture or distributor has earned the ETL Mark for their entire product line. No other U.S. cryosauna or cryochamber manufacture or distributor has earned the CE Marking. Highlights from this Episode * Evan and Dr. Melvin kick off the episode by defining cryotherapy, clearing up misconceptions about the difference between the advanced chambers they have and just “putting something on ice,” as well as what makes Impact Cryo stand out in the field of physical therapy. * The effects, benefits, and integration of this form of therapy into the golf world, and how professional golfers like Jordan Spieth are utilizing this to advance their game. * Evan talks about the range of use in the different types of facilities they have set up their system with; from wellness and physical therapy facilities to fitness centers and massage and spa facilities, the range of uses can benefit any athlete in recovering faster and stronger...

Curtis Christopherson has been an entrepreneur in the fitness industry since his late teens, and in less than 2 decades has built quite the portfolio including ownership in the largest personal training company in Canada (Innovative Fitness), a very successful chain of retail supplement stores (Reflex Supplements), and one of the fastest growing soft tissue/myofascial release product companies (RAD Roller).  Curtis has time and again been recognized for his business acumen, and ability to create, pursue and foster both a vision and culture of a very successful company in multiple brnaches of health and fitness. Not only a businessman, but a husband, and father of 2, Curtis has made it a priority to create time and systems that allow him to spend time with the family and not constantly be consumed with work.  In this episode, we stray a bit from the usual talk of golf, fitness, and performance to talk directly to those in the fitness and golf business (or any listener that owns a business or is looking to prioritize their life) about strategies to build the business you love, but also make sure that you are not getting swallowed but by the day to day tasks. How can you “fit it all in?” Curtis provides stories and insights from his own personal experiences, as well as some very helpful and actionable suggestions. Curtis Christopherson’s Background * 2009 he received recognition as Business Person of the Year by the Surrey Chamber of Commerce. * In 2007, Curtis co-wrote Swim Upstream Unsubscribing to conventional wisdom and together with his group of literary cohorts published 2 more books in 2008 & 2009. * 2010 nominated as Canada’s Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year as he took the lead position in the organization position of Innovative Fitness to oversee the entire business operations that included 3 corporate facilities and 6 franchises at the time. * Became a partner and owner of RAD which is a company based out of Denver, Colorado. At RAD he is responsible for many of the sales strategies, the international strategic partnerships, and all of the influential athletes, professional sports teams, or health professionals that use & support the products. * Became a partner in Reflex Supplements. Since his involvement (in just under 2 years), the company has almost tripled in size (from 7 to 25 stores) and is now the most successful supplement retail chain in Western Canada. * 2018, Curtis has gone on to take over and acquire the entire business of Innovative Fitness which included 3 corporate locations and 8 franchises with over 140 professional training coaches. Highlights from this Episode * Curtis kicks off the show talking about his transition and growth as an entrepreneur; From growing Innovative Fitness and eventually buying the company completely while juggling his many roles with RadRoller and Reflex Supplements and how he attributes his successes to the importance of progressing when you’re fully ready to. * How he goes about finding all of the time in the day to fit all of his responsibilities from work to family and advice he has for the up-and-comer * His thoughts on breaking away from filling time with the small clients and projects and building towards investing in a business that can pay dividends in the long run. * The importance of realizing that as a business leader, it is primarily about letting go of the reigns and empowering others that works for or with you. * Why talented/intellectual people who are not aligned with your core values can severely cripple a business and creating a system for your business to follow is one thing, but without accountability to that, it all crumbles.

Former professional golfer, Mark Williamson, is now better known as The Golf Yogi. After overcoming his initial resistance to his wife’s request to join her in at a yoga class, once he experienced it, he was hooked. Mark Soon began studying and teaching yoga, but realized that he wanted to do more that simply teach classes. He started working on his own style of golf fitness, combining yoga with golf specific exercises, and “The Golf Yogi,” was born. When the word “Yoga” is even stated to some golfers, they immediately tune out or write it off as not for them, but Mark would say otherwise. With his experience as a pro golfer and certified yoga instructor, Mark joins us today to talk about how he tailors yoga to be beneficial to every golfer. The Golf Yogi’s Background * Mark played professionally from 2002 through 2009. In that time, Mark played the Gateway, Tight Lies, Hooters, Pepsi, Golden State, and U.S. Pro Golf Tours, to name a few. Mark racked up four wins in his time as a professional, and also held three course records in that time. * While playing the Gateway Tour in 2008, Mark was a member of the Tour’s Player Advisory Board. Mark worked with some of the great teachers in the game during his career including Jim Flick, Jim Dieters, and the creators of the “Stack and Tilt” method, Mike Bennett and Andy Plummer. * Mark first started practicing yoga in 2004. After five years of consistently practicing yoga, Mark earned his Registered Yoga Teacher Certification from At One Yoga in Scottsdale, Arizona. Mark furthered his yoga knowledge by becoming certified to teach Katherine Roberts’ Yoga For Golfers classes. * Mark is also a registered member of Yoga Alliance, yoga’s governing body. Highlights from this Episode * Mark kicks off this episode talking about his reluctant introduction to yoga, how it became such an integral part of his life and fitness regiment, and his preconceived notions that kept him away from yoga. * How Mark keeps golf first when it comes to the combination of yoga into the golf fitness realm. Mark’s approach is “a whole lot of little bottles make a big bottle.” If you can pick up a little bit of improvement from different fitness and wellness regiments, you will be better rounded in the long run. * We talk about bringing it back to the basics. When it comes to fitness training, it’s not magic: it’s awareness. Mark talks about how when first introducing his clients to yoga, he is just showing them a different way of being aware of their body and how it moves. * We talk the difference between flexibility and mobility: The important distinction between the two, and how yoga isn’t just a practice to make you more flexible. * Mark also touches on aspects of traditional yoga that could be detrimental to golfers in general and things to look out for when planning on what you want to work on. Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore? Caddy Shack What would be your walk up song? Lose Yourself by Eminem If you could play 18 holes with anyone, who would it be and where would you play? My dad at Augusta (or Royal County Down in Ireland) Any parting advice for the 18 Strong Audience? The more active we become, the more we become athletes. No matter if it’s stretching or going for a walk, just move more. Mark can be found at the following links: Thegolfyogi.com Golferstoolbox.com Twitter Instagram Episode Sponsors The Golf Body Blueprint SuperSpeed Golf

Do junior golfers need to be more athletic?  Rene Cammarata, one of the premier coaches working with Junior golfers in Pennsylvania, believes they absolutely do. With more than twenty years of experience as a strength & conditioning coach, power coach, speed and agility coach, junior coach, golf biomechanics, and as a nutrition coach among others, Rene has noticed a concerning trend when it comes to a large number of junior golfers.  They simply aren’t very athletic. Rene joins us today to talk about some of the differences he sees in the junior golfer population vs some of the other junior athletes he has worked with.  Is there a difference in strength, coordination, stature, and even psychological makeup between these demographics, and if so, what should we be doing to bring more athleticism into these players. Whether you are a junior player, coach, or parent, we dissuss some ideas, concerns and solutions that might clear a few things up for you. Rene Cammarata’s Background * Graduated from Temple University, Rene is a Golf Fitness Professional (Level 3), Junior Coach (Level 2), and a Golf Professional (Level 2) by the Titleist Performance Institute * He is a K-VEST Certified Professional, a community of accomplished professionals that utilize 3D and 6D motion capture technology to fully understand how the body moves to create a repeatable and efficient swing motion. * Although he has a unique skill set as a golf performance coach he also works with athletes from many other disciplines including swimming, triathlon, rowing, figure skating, ice dance, speed skating, lacrosse, football, etc., all competing at the highest levels of their sport. * His Approach: In any sport you can have great athletes who perform and play at a high level, but they can still have imbalances and weaknesses in their kinetic chain. I find those imbalances and get them to perform at a level they never dreamed. Highlights from this Episode * He kicks the episode off talking about the mindset of young golfers and the differences psychologically and physically between them and other team sport players * We discuss how to approach shaping them into well-rounded athletes. * Where he starts day one with his young athletes that exhibit some of these symptoms of trying to perfect their swing before mastering the basics following the PMRS Model (Position, Movement, Resistance, Speed,) and tapping into their energy systems. * Why is athleticism important for golfers and how can we introduce it. * The differences between sport-general training and sport-specific training * A message to the parents about what is most important in the training. * How confidence can make a world of difference in their performance. “Success breeds success” * Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore? Caddy Shack What would be your “walk-up song?” Problem Child by AC/DC If you could play 18 holes with anyone, who would it be and where would you play? Sammy Hagar at Kauai Any parting advice for the 18 Strong Audience? Think of developing the athlete first and becoming a golfer second. Where to Find Rene Cammarata: www.trainingincperformace.com Instagram: @Training_INC Episode Sponsors RADRoller.com The Golf Fitness Roller Coaster Join The 18STRONG Movement! If you listened to the very end of this episode,

Today I am especially excited to bring on our very special guest, James Sieckmann. James Sieckmann has been deemed the “Master of the Modern Short Game.”  He is held in the highest regard among his peers, and golfers at the highest level.  , and recognized by GOLF Magazine and Golf Digest as a Top Teacher in America. This accolade extends to his peers through Gold Digest – as he is considered the 16th Best Teacher, but 1st among all short game coaches. Currently, he is the Short Game Coach to 13 fully exempt Tour players including Charley Hoffman, I.K. Kim, Smylie Kaufman, Ben Crane and Tom Pernice. He has shared his unique coaching with other teachers around the world including Golf Education Asia, The World Golf Fitness Summit, PGA Sweden, PGA Spain and the Federation de Golf Columbia. James Sieckmann’s Background * Director of Instruction at The Golf Academy at Shadow Ridge Country Club in Omaha, Nebraska. * A nine-time recipient of the Nebraska PGA Section Teacher of the year * Recognized by GOLF Magazine as a Top 100 Teacher in America * Golf Digest 16th Best Teacher in America, but 1st among all short game coaches * Author of * Your Short Game Solution: Mastering The Finesse Game from 120 Yards and In * Your Putting Solution: A Tour Proven Approach to Mastering the Greens. * He is the current Short Game Coach to Tour players including I.K. Kim, Smylie Kaufman, Ben Crane and Tom Pernice. Highlights from this Episode * He initially talks about how he played professional golf for 5 years and how he worked with improper information to improve his skill. * After caddying for his older brother, he started videoing all these great players because he wanted to understand what they were doing.  Some of these players included greats like Seve Ballesteros, Greg Norman, etc. * James shares 3 pivotal components that he learned about the short game that were completely opposite of what he had initially been taught. * He breaks down the process that he teaches his players to learn from their mistakes and be more intelligent about taking in the feedback from their practice. * Mechanics on how to set up for a finesse shot, which is what propels you how to hit well. He talks about how set-up is critical. * Post shot routine and why it’s important. * James stresses that you have to “let the ball be your teacher.”  Learn from your failures.  Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore? Caddy Shack. What would be your walk-up song? Low Rider – War If you could play 18 holes with anyone, who would it be and where would you play? Bobby Jones, Seve Ballesteros, and his older brother Tom at Cyprus. Do you have any parting advice for the 18 Strong Community? If you’re competitive, go out with a smart approach. If you’re not, go have some fun. Find James Sieckmann: website: www.jsegolfacademy.com Twitter: @jamessieckmann Episode Sponsors SuperSpeed Golf If you listened to the very end of this episode, then you know that there is a movement happening in golf and fitness.  To join, simply follow this link to the private Facebook group and ask to join!  Once you’re accepted, you are officially part of The 18STRONG Movement!  Introduce yourself to the group and let’s get connected!

Kolby Tullier’s talent helps him identify the problem by simply watching a little bit of video. Whether he’s evaluating the way a golfer balances during a swing, or the way a football player cuts left while running the ball, Kolby is able to tell why an athlete moves the way he does. Even more importantly he sees how his performance can be improved. As a personal trainer, Kolby has worked with every type of athlete – from high school athletes and CEOs to those looking to improve their weekend tennis games. His portfolio of athletes he has trained has grown to include NFL players Matt Flynn, Steven Ridley and Terrance Toliver and PGA golfers John Peterson and Andrew Loupe. Kolby joins us today to talk about when working with such powerhouse athletes, what can be done to bump them up to the next level with their game. Kolby Tullier’s Background * As a BioMechanics Specialist, Kolby Tullier has been in the sports performance industry for more than 20 years. * His Stable of golfers includes top names such as Justin Thomas, Smiley Kaufman, Bud Cauley, Harold Varner III, Lexi Thompson, Michelle Wei, and many more. * His Approach: In any sport, you can have great athletes who perform and play at a high level, but they can still have imbalances and weaknesses in their kinetic chain. I find those imbalances and get them to perform at a level they never dreamed. Highlights from this Episode * Kolby kicks the episode off talking about “The Stable,” how he finds and works with his athletes, and what led to him moving to Joey D’s Performance Center. * The difference between raw strength and functional strength. * Stories of clients he has worked with demonstrating the importance of functional strength how subtle differences in training can make all of the difference. * The key factor that you can’t have fluid mobility without stability. * Similarities and differences between athletes from different sports and training levels. * Kolby goes in depth with how on a kinesthetic level, all athletes need to master and overcome the same obstacles to progress their game. Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore? Happy Gilmore What would be your walk up song? Jump Around by House of Pain If you could play 18 holes with anyone, who would it be and where would you play? My father at Augusta. Do you have any parting advice for the 18 Strong Community? It’s never too late to get in the best shape of your life. Kolby Tullier can be found at the following links: Joey D Golf Performance Center Twitter:  @KWAYNE_FITNESS Instagram: @Kolbywayne Episode Sponsors SKRATCH RADRoller.com Connect with 18STRONG Facebook Page       Twitter Profile       Instagram Profile Join The 18STRONG Movement! If you listened to the very end of this episode, then you know that there is a movement happening in golf and fitness.  To join, simply follow this link to the private Facebook group and ask to join!  Once you’re accepted, you are officially part of The 18STRONG Movement!  Introduce yourself to the group and let’s get connected!

10 Exercises for New Golfers In this episode, I wanted to break things down very simply for those of you that might be new to the game of golf or simply newer to the idea of getting in the gym to help your golf game.  Regardless of whether you are just learning how to swing a club or a kettlebell, mastering these basic exercises will give you more strength, balance, confidence, and awareness of how your body works.  All of this will absolutely transfer over to better control, endurance, and strength on the course. We’ve often talked on the podcast about the 5 main components that you should include in your workouts (Push, pull, squat, deadlift, rotate) but today, I’m going to share some of my favorite specific exercises to start with. (NOTE: If you would like to learn more about the 5 Main Components mentioned above, check out our 4 part video series “The Golf Fitness Roller Coaster” ) Remember, you don’t need to over complicate things. Until you are at a much higher level of training, you need to master the basics. There are tons of ex’s that could have been added to this list, but I thought 10 would be good to start. Is this a definitive “Best Exercise List?” No, I don’t think there really is such a thing, but being competent in these 10 exercises will get you started on the right track. One last note, you’ll often hear me talk about including mobility, sprints, swing speed training, etc.  For this episode, I’m not including any of that stuff.  To keep it simple, we are simply focusing on the strengthening exercises. Doing the following exercise properly can and will help mobility if you focus on posture, form, and full ranges of motion.  I don’t really worry too much about sprints and swing speed training until I know that the golfer has some of these tools in their box. 1. The Plank This is a great drill to teach the concept of tension. Keep the hands/forearms parallel to each other, NOT rotated inward. Squeeze the quads, glutes, pull shoulder blades down/back, tighten the abs to pull hips off the floor. (note: my elbows could be a little further forward, more under the shoulders to make this even a little more effective) I mentioned the Paloff Press in the episode, but it is not in the video.  I will include that at a later date. 2. Split Squats DB Squats are hard for many people. Splits squats are easier to start Less stress on the back Lots of variations (DB, KB, Bar, elevate a foot) 3. Goblet Squats KB (heels up 1st) Easier that barbell squat Great improving trunk/core activation (hold bell slightly away) Really opens hips (glutes, groin) Creates awareness of posture 4. KB Deadlifts (DB, sumo, single leg) Easier to get people in position Can start w/ bell on a box (height adjust) Find it easier to teach hip hinge (can go to wall if needed) Can add serious weight (2 KB) or progress to barbell Complete work for the back of the body (glutes, HS, shoulders, back) 5. 1-Arm DB Press (1/2 off the bench) Easier on the shoulder Great for reducing imbalances R/L Forces you to work the midsection When partially off the bench, really increases trunk activation and even hip mm/glutes 6. DB Row at Bench Everyone should know how to do a real row Great for showing you proper shoulder/shoulder blade mechanics When done right this exercise is great for creating trunk activation, true tension, grip strength, back/posture 7. Hip Extension/Hamstrings Curls on Ball Exercise that should be pretty easy, but almost everyone has trouble with Glutes and Hamstrings (underutilized in most people)

Trent Wearner is a 3-time Colorado PGA Teacher of the Year and often rated as the #1 Teacher in Colorado by his peers and Golf Digest Magazine.  He has been on The Golf Channel and Morning Drive several times as well as regularly on Altitude Sports Television’s Golf@Altitude. He has taught side-by-side several top instructors including Keith Lyford and other Top 100 Teachers. He works with players of all ability levels and spends his time equally between Adults and Juniors, many who are considered the state’s top amateurs, juniors, and mini-tour players.  With 80+ students playing or having played college golf, he is the most sought-after junior coach in the region and joins us today to talk about proper practice and re-introducing the term “scrimmage” to golfers across the world.   Trent Wearner’s Background * As a young golfer, Trent played a lot of competitive junior golf and continues to play in Colo PGA Section Professional events. * Throughout his career, Wearner has received numerous awards and accolades, both locally and nationally, such as the Top 25 Master Elite Junior Golf Coaches in the U.S., Three-time Colorado PGA Teacher of the Year, and Player Development Award Winner. * 32 of Trent’s students have played in National USGA Events, and he has 12 Individual High School State Championships as well as 11 Team High School State Championships under his belt. Highlights from this Episode * He kicks the episode off talking about the background experience of growing up with sports that fueled and brought the inspiration to his book, “Golf Scrimmages: Realistic Practice Games Under Pressure” and his interactive website. * Why it can be so hard to take your game from the practice range to the golf course and how to both mentally break that down, as well as tips to try to bridge the gap. He talks about different tips and aspects to focus on through some common games to make their practice more meaningful. * Trent talks more in-depth on his website and the scoring mechanics/leaderboards. Scoring plays such a crucial role in the real world of golf, why not practice like we play? * Finally, Trent raps up talking about the future of GolfScrimmages.com and how a user-friendly environment is his number one priority with it.  Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore? Caddy Shack What would be your walk-up song? Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffett If you could play 18 holes with anyone, who would it be and where would you play? Payne Stewart at The Home of Golf in St. Andrews. Do you have any parting advice for the 18 Strong Community? When people are looking for a coach, it’s extremely important to do your homework and interview them. Be an informed consumer and know to ask the right questions. Find Trent Wearner: * Facebook:  Trent Wearner Golf Academy * Twitter:  @TrentWearner * GolfScrimmages.com * TrentWearnerGolf.com * Book: Golf Scrimmages Episode Sponsors PGA Tour Mobile App RADRoller.com Connect with 18STRONG

Kirk Adams has more than 15 years of experience working with collegiate, professional, and Olympic athletes in more than 30 men’s and women’s sports.  He works with a number of professional golfers on the Web.com and eGolf Tours and he joins us today to talk about how to “winterize” your body for a better golf game this year. Kirk Adam’s Background * He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Kinesiology from Penn State University, and is a Titleist Performance Institute Certified Golf Fitness Instructor, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and a Youth Fitness Specialist through the International Youth Conditioning Association. * Adams was the Head Olympic Sports Strength & Conditioning Coach at Penn State from 2005-2013, where his teams won more than 20 Big Ten Championships and four National Championships. * He also was responsible for the physical development of the men’s and women’s golf teams. In 2011, Adams founded Nittany Golf Fitness in State College, Pennsylvania, where he brought Tour-quality training to recreational golfers of all ages and abilities. Highlights from this Episode * He reflects on what led him to Golf and Body Fitness in NYC and the awesome facility they have there; from the tech to the specs. * Kirk goes into both how we can improve our golf game in the down season, how we can look at this time off as a good way to check in with your overall health, and the top things the golfers neglect that can cause a rocky start when you pick up the clubs again. * We talk Strength vs. Endurance vs. Power: What factors play into each and how to use those to help tailor your workout and your golf game. Kirk talks about how inactivity can be part of our daily routine from sitting in the car to sitting at work, so an important aspect of the workout is doing something fast. * Kirk explains how he uses and why he loves kettle bells when programming for his golfers, including when he uses certain lifts and how he how he fits them into his training sessions to get the most out of the client depending on their level of skill. Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore? Caddy Shack What would be your walk up song? Walk by Pantera If you could play 18 holes with anyone, who would it be and where would you play? My dad at Augusta What are you excited for in the upcoming year? We have a lot of new programs we are talking about implementing at Golf and Body from Yoga, Pilates, to Meal Delivery. Do you have any parting advice for the 18 Strong Community? Keep a good community to help push you to reaching your goals and don’t be afraid to take that next big leap. Find Kirk Adams: Instagram: @kirkadamsgolf @golfbodynyc Websites:  Golf & Body NYC Par Four Performance Blog Episode Sponsors SKRATCH SuperSpeed Golf Connect with 18STRONG Facebook Page       Twitter Profile       Instagram Profile Join The 18STRONG Movement! If you listened to the very end of this episode,

Tyler Ferrell, named one of Golf Digest Top Golf Fitness Professionals 2018, Best Instructors in Texas 2018, and Best Young Teachers 2017, is a leading expert in the application of 3D motion biomechanics. His background as both an instructor and a trainer give him a unique ability to communicate how the body works in the golf swing. He joins us today to give us a glimpse into his recent book The Stock Tour Swing: Use Science to Uncover Your Version of the Tour Swing. In his book, Tyler breaks down 3D research and his experiences in coaching that have identified the major differences between the swing of elite golfers compared to the amateur golfer.  With this knowledge, Tyler has created a system to help you “decode” your swing. Tyler’s Background * Tyler graduated Summa Cum Laude from Towson University with a degree in Marketing and E-Business where he played two years of collegiate golf. * Tyler had the privilege of learning from some of the most recognized names in golf fitness and golf biomechanics. Two of his main influences were Dr. Greg Rose and Janet Alexander. He is currently studying the work of Dr. Guy Voyer, a world leader on how the fascial system influences movement. * He is also a trainer of other golf coaches through seminars and programs. He has given lectures in a number of PGA Sections as well as a 2-day training program for the Danish National Team coaching staff. In 2016 he presented at the World Golf Fitness Summit, presented by the Titleist Performance Institute. * Prior to the book, Tyler created Golf Smart Academy, a website for do-it-yourself golfers and coaches to find answers to their most difficult questions related to golf. At current, Golf Smart Academy has over 750 videos helping golfers all over the world understand how to apply the latest golf science to their game. Highlights from this Episode * How his career has evolved from being a Division 1 Golfer, getting into the fitness side of training, and eventually the Director of Instruction at La Rinconada in San Jose. * How his neck/shoulder injury, and the healing of which led to the inspiration for the writing of his book “Stock Tour Swing.” We dive into different pieces and aspects of the book and what it means to develop your own Tour Swing. He also talks about “Decoding your swing” and choosing the best swing for your situation. * The difference between what we feel in our swing and what we are actually doing in our swing and the importance of that awareness. He also goes into a quick synopsis of the ELDOA Program and its influence on his teaching technique. * Feller’s two big things the amateur player should focus on to see improvement in their swing and understanding the way their body moves.   Caddy Shack or Happy Gilmore? Caddy Shack What would be your walk up song? The Piano Guy’s cover of Coldplay’s “Paradise” If you could play 18 holes with anyone, who would it be and where would you play? Ben Hogan at Agusta What are you excited for in the upcoming year? Building on momentum from the previous year and to keep learning and improving on my teaching. Where to Find Tyler Ferrell Website: Golf Smart Academy Book: The Stock Tour Swing: Use Science to Uncover Your Version of the Tour Swing   Episode Sponsors PGA Tour Mobile App RADRoller.

Today, I am taking a beat to reflect on the past year of 18Strong; both where we have been and where we are going come 2018. We had a lot of amazing guests on from PGA Professionals to leaders of the fitness industry to former NFL Players. We launched our Online Training Program and our Apparel Shop. But this episode isn’t just about what we have been doing or what we have in the works for 2018. I also dive into what you can do to better yourself and your golf game in 2018. My big question to you is: What are you committed to in 2018? What are you going to change?  What has been holding you back?  What is one big thing that you can commit to in 2018 that will either propel you further forward or maybe completely change the direction you are heading in your fitness, golf, diet, or whatever it might be that you want to impact? 5 Points to think about:  1. Create Your Manifesto Figure out what your goals are and begin to define yourself by those standards. All change takes time but the first steps are figuring out which direction you want to go and the best route to take to get there. * Brett McCabe – Ep. 122 * Anthony Trucks – Ep. 126 * Tony Soaib – Ep. 140 Own Your Body Mastering better movement and taking control of how you move in simple daily activities will help you facilitate better exercises and quality of movement. Invest work on correcting your movements on the smaller scale to see vast improvements throughout your workout routine. * Andrew Hannon – Ep. 137 * Frank Duffy – Ep. 152 * Kelly Starrett – Ep. 143 Make Things Stupidly Simple There are an infinite number of ways to better your game and your fitness/diet routines, but execution hates complexity. The simpler you make these programs, the more likely you are to be consistent and compliant. * Kelly Starrett – Ep. 143 * Mike Boyle – Ep. 156 * Damon Goddard – Ep. 171 Minimize Your Mental Mistakes Pay more attention to your “mental thermostat” rather than the technical mistakes. You can beat yourself up over the small stuff all day and night, but seeing past that with a clear head is the number one way to maximize your efficiency and consistency on the course. * Will Robins – Ep. 159 * Eric Davis – Ep. 124 Enjoy The Process We often end up treating fitness and our golf game like a chore. We say we don’t play enough golf, but when we do get out there we end up more frustrated then before. Enjoy the game for what it is. Enjoy your mistakes and relishing in the fact that it is part of the process of advancing your game. Enjoy your personal process of getting into shape, whatever form that takes. * Michael Breed – Ep. 134 * Webb Simpson – Ep. 129 Episode Sponsors SKRATCH SuperSpeed...