Runner's Heights: Steer Clear of Steroids for that Birdie

A freak incident this last time that I was on the golf course made me realize that jogging on the golf course might be easily transform the act of running into an extreme sport. Trying to outrun a golf ball racing towards the pin or some distant fairway is a daunting task even if you run like the protagonists of the movie, "Chariots of Fire". As we were standing at the counter of the pro shop, two joggers came bounding past the first hole and ran around a group of golfer with puzzled looks. Even the sales staff at the counter were transfixed by this jogging spectacle. It seemed like the joggers quickly realized their mistake and took a hasty u-turn before the second hole before making a quiet egress.

Jack Nicklaus was a great proponent of multi-sport activities, including tennis, because he felt that golfers should have strong legs and flexible bodies and a lot of lean muscle. I couldn't agree with him more. Since the time that I have been running regularly, my golf swing has improved and I am more relaxed during the swing. However, bulking up with weight training excessively might have a detrimental effect on the golf swing. I think if you are too muscular, especially around the shoulders and the neck, those muscles might adversely affect your flexibility. Some of my friends who have been pumping iron to "bulk up" have discovered that bulk affects the length of the swing especially during the takeaway. But, I have no scientific data to prove it and the jury is out there.

RazrPics...Westchester Golf Course