John Daly Warns Intense Gym Training May Shorten Pro Golfers' Careers
Professional golf legend John Daly expressed concerns about intensive gym workouts potentially harming golfers' longevity in the sport. Speaking on the "Like a Farmer" podcast, Daly suggested that excessive strength training could compromise flexibility and prevent players from competing into their later years.
Daly, known for his unconventional approach to the game, emphasized that while some physical preparation is beneficial, "hardcore working out" might prevent players from competing at ages 55-60. He specifically referenced the shift in golf culture that occurred when Tiger Woods popularized intensive fitness training in the late 1990s.
Key points from Daly's perspective:
- Excessive workouts may reduce flexibility
- Many modern players become too mechanical
- Traditional golf culture focused less on gym work
- Short game practice is more valuable than strength training
Daly's own practice routine focuses primarily on short game elements:
- Wedge practice
- Chipping
- Putting
Looking toward the future, Daly expressed interest in teaching short game skills to professional players after retirement, believing his natural feel for the game could benefit others.
The two-time major winner acknowledges that while modern players can hit the ball impressive distances, he questions whether the trade-off of flexibility and longevity is worth it. He suggests that aspiring golfers should prioritize short game development over pursuing maximum driving distance.
While Daly's perspective has merit regarding the risks of overtraining, proper fitness training under professional guidance has proven beneficial for many golfers, improving their distance, flexibility, and stamina when done correctly.