Our physical therapists who specialize in golf actually specialize in working with golfers with this condition. Through specific and targeted exercises, we have been able to slow curve progressions and in some cases even help the young golfer avoid surgery.
Young women are more prone to hypermobility (too much flexibility) which can put them at risk for injury much more than their male counterparts. The research is very clear that the best way to combat this in general, and especially in sports, is to get them on a well rounded strength and conditioning program to help build strength to control their mobility. This reduces their injury risk and ultimately improves their performance as well as their career.
Yes of course! This is hugely valuable as it creates a comprehensive team around you. We serve as the liaison body and your coach. We figure out what your body can and can't do and then also find out what your coach is wanting you to do. We bridge the gap between the two so that your body can safely and efficiently do what your coach is asking you to do!
If you are local to Raleigh, you can join as a member of our junior program and have unlimited access to classes and our coaches in person. The other option is similar to non-local players where you can do 1 on 1 sessions periodically and follow up via our app for your program delivery and feedback and communication with our coaches between sessions.
Our online programs are about as close to working in person with us as you can get. You still go through the full online evaluation and your program is totally customized based on your needs and what time and equipment you have available. The cost is less than $20 per month and the first month is free from all PKB Tour members! There is not a better price for a custom program nor is there better access to expert coaches whenever you need them. We also have a lot of families and players who will travel to us in person once every 4-8 weeks for an in person assessment or follow up to progress programs and then utilize the app between sessions for program delivery and communication with our coaches.
No, we do not teach the golf swing. Think of it like this...on a ship, the player and the swing coach are in the bridge directing where the ship is going and how fast it will go. We are in the engine room making sure all of the parts are moving efficiently and trying to avoid anything breaking. We work directly with the captain and the player to assure everything we are doing in the "engine room" is coordinated and supporting everything they are working on in their swing.
Golf fitness, or training specifically for improved performance on the course is a number of things. First, it is an education on how to take care of your body throughout your lifetime. We also look at making sure all of the developmental athletic milestones of speed, agility, power development and proper movement are present. Before puberty, the focus is on foundational movements, core stability and preparation for when true sport performance training will begin. After puberty, assuming a solid foundation has been laid, the focus shifts to specific strength and power training for the sport of golf as well as mobility and movement work to assure the golfer is able to achieve all of the necessary positions for the golf swing.
If girls are playing multiple sports before age 10 that is great! If not, or around 10 years old is when you start becoming familiar with golf fitness. The focus of the program changes based on the junior's need of course.