“ Golf may not seem like an endurance sport , but a round typically requires 5 + miles of walking , multiple swings and maintaining focus for hours ,” he said . “ Without cardio , you may run out of energy early in rounds , which can lead to a loss of focus and poor execution .”

Many golfers focus on swing mechanics and short game but often overlook the vital role of cardio in maintaining stamina , preventing fatigue and ultimately , playing your best golf . After all , poor cardio can lead to poor decisions on the course , a loss of execution and — surprisingly ( or not !)— an inability to keep your cool about it .

“ While strength and mental work are crucial , cardio keeps a golfer performing at peak levels longer ,” Royalty said . “ A well-conditioned cardio system can help you stay fresh , maintain mental sharpness , make better swings and recover faster between shots .”

Here ’ s why good cardio is key to your golf game : 1 . Good blood flow keeps the brain engaged , reducing decision-making mistakes .

2 . Stronger lungs and heart deliver better oxygen flow , supporting consistent movement patterns .

3 . A lower heart rate and better conditioning help maintain composure and reduce tension .

Depending on how “ merry ” your holiday season was ( informally calculated by the number of Christmas cookies you had divided by the steps you walked , of course ),

the impact of poor stamina and fatigue can become painfully clear early in your golf season , Royalty said .

“ After a long winter , many golfers find themselves with tired legs by the 12th hole , sluggish swings , a loss of focus late in rounds and increased soreness with longer recovery times ,” he said . “ These issues often stem from neglecting cardio training during the offseason .”

Getting Started Before you return to the course , Royalty recommends beginning a balanced training approach that incorporates strength training to build power and swing stability , mental training to improve focus , decision-making , and resilience , and cardio to support both ( by enhancing stamina and reducing fatigue .)

Best of all , getting “ cardio-fit ” helps you beyond the golf course . It can improve

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