Golfers benefit from conditioning

Golfers must stay in shape to compete at any level. Local physical therapist and certified golf fitness specialist Matt Smalling believes all golfers can benefit from a golfspecific exercise program.

"Most golfers don't realize how much stress is place on the body during the golf swing. The compressive forces on the lumbar spine are eight times your body weight. If you don't have adequate flexibility and strength, then injury is more likely to occur. In addition, each swing fault can be attributed to a physical limitation," said Smalling.

Smalling performs a comprehensive evaluation of strength, range of motion, balance and power before starting any exercises.

The goal of the program is to improve the golfer's efficiency.

Smalling works at Athletic Development Center, which is at both the Westlake Village and Simi Valley offices of AthleticPT.

For more information, call (805) 551-1683 or visit www .athleticdevelopmenthome.com.