I got back from Las Vegas with 185 emails in my inbox. How did that happen? There is still snow on the ground, doesn’t that still officially make it the off season? I spent the first few days back responding and putting out fires. For a golfer I seem to spend an inordinate amount of time on the computer.
Cyber time continued with being asked to write “The Parting Shot” which is the last article of the National Golf Course Owners Association Canada magazine. The cover story is about women and golf and I was asked to write an opinion piece on how to get more women into golf and what holds women back. I discussed issues surrounding many women being intimidated by the game and all the rules, it being primarily a male dominated sport, women who leave the game when they have children and don’t come back until they are empty nesters and finally women and corporate golf. It was fun to share my views.
As for my training I am mid-way through the “Insanity” program which focuses on plyometrics and core strength. I have been thrilled with my gains. I also started hot yoga this week. Being a former gymnast I thought I was flexible, but was I mistaken. I was good at the inversions like headstands and bridges but struggled with many other poses. Yoga works a great deal on generally flexibility and most importantly for golfers rotational and shoulder flexibility along with balance.
I like the extreme heat in the room as I find it makes your muscles more pliable. Be warned though that you will sweat…a lot…so bring a towel, maybe even a second to cover your matt as it gets slippery and bring boat loads of water. I also recommend going with a friend. I went with my girlfriend Carolina in town from LA, and though we couldn’t talk we exchanged grimacing faces and knowing looks.
As a golfer, if you haven’t tried Yoga you need to. In addition to increased flexibility, balance and core strength it also helps calm your mind. I am sadly a girl that has a hamster that runs marathons in my head. It helps find that peace and calmness of mind imperative for peak performance on the golf course, especially in competition and for general life.
I also had a chance to take my little man to hit balls for the first time this season. He was frustrated with some of his whiffs and skulled shots. I have had several instructors tell me to not worry too much about children’s grips, a baseball grip is most popular. All you want to do is encourage young players to not separate their hands on the club but instead have them close together if possible. Children also need to work on having “quiet” feet throughout their swing and encourage juniors to finish on their front side and hold their finish. Don’t get too technical with your kids and just have fun.
Lisa hitting balls with her son
Easter was also a huge highlight of the week. With a three day weekend it was great to hook up with friends and family over the holidays. When I grew up Easter was always a big deal and we had many traditions. It started with mass followed by a big brunch, then finally the coveted Easter egg hunt and wrapping up with a yummy dinner complete with nameplates, decorations, special treats and always ham. I have continued the traditions with my own family and I was in charge of brunch and the egg hunt. For a girl who is a self-proclaimed “non-cook” I thought it went quite well and the egg hunt was a hit!
I couldn’t help but remember last Easter Sunday and the epic playoffwin by Bubba Watson at the Masters. My mother was apoplectic we refused to come to the table begging like 3 year olds for 2 more minutes as they went to the 10th hole. It was worth it! What a finish! Can’t wait to see what the 2013 Masters has in store!
Until next week, go long!
