5-7-2004
SPECIAL REPORT - GOLF & RECREATION
New golf-training program combines the
expertise of a PGA pro with personal athletic training

Any golfer knows that getting consistently good swings requires many long hours of repetitive movements. Practicing that perfect swing could not only get expensive at the range, but also impact the body negatively if not properly done. A new program, offered jointly by PGA professional Bob Kelly of Pure Golf Training Systems and by Kitsap’s premier physical therapy and sports training center, Bodylink, will help golfers of all ages perfect their craft as well as implement a personalized exercise training program designed for their individual needs.

The one-hour sessions, held twice a week for three weeks, will include 30 minutes of training with Kelly using the Track Trainer, designed especially for improving the swing, posture, tempo and other important skills. The other half of the session will be spent with bodylink professionals, who will focus on exercises for improving flexibility, strength and endurance. Each participant will receive a Theraball and a stretch cord exerciser and learn customized exercises using those tools.

“The program is a comprehensive look at what golfers should consider in order to improve and prevent possible injuries,” said Gregg Sampson, Bodylink founder and physical therapist. “It is geared for anyone from young to old, beginners to advance players—anyone who wants to understand the physical aspects of golf. The goal is to increase awareness of choices in the sport of golf and the importance of flexibility, posture, strength and other aspects.”

Kelly, who has been using the revolutionary Track Trainer as part of his golf training process, says the objective is to take the golfer to the next level. Using the Track Trainer maximizes the learning process. “We want to affect the practice time and make it more efficient, but also make it fun,” he said. “The goal is to expose people to both viewpoints of training and physical therapy at an affordable price.”

The first three-week session will begin the week of May 10, with more sessions to be scheduled later. A morning class will be offered for women and an afternoon class will be open to anyone. Class size is limited, and pre-registration is required. The cost for the six sessions is $120 per person. Classes will be held at Kitsap Sports in Silverdale.

You must register by May 5 for the first class, with other registration dates to follow in May. Contact Bob Kelly to register or for more information at (360) 271-2427.