By Bobby Hall
Special to PGATOUR.com

MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- If a personalized, golf-specific fitness program can prepare professionals on the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and LPGA for maximum performance, then wouldn't the same system work for amateurs -- from scratch players to double-digit handicappers?

Designers of the "Strengthen Your Game" system say it will, and they're offering the golf performance enhancement program at selected Physiotherapy Associates clinics nationally.

"What we're doing is taking the same expertise that we use for all three tours in terms of fitness and rehabilitation, and we're delivering that to amateur golfers in the general public," said Billy O'Donnell, national accounts manager for Memphis-based Physiotherapy Associates.

Physiotherapy Associates, a division of the Stryker Corporation, is the "Official Provider of Fitness Training and Physical Rehabilitation for the PGA TOUR and Champions Tour." Stryker is a worldwide leader in the development and manufacturing of specialty surgical and medical products.

"The unique thing about Strengthen Your Game is that it's an evaluation from head to toe - what we call 'from the core to the floor' - and we come up with a custom program based on that person's specific needs," O'Donnell said. "It's not a general, one-size-fits-all thing."

Following a comprehensive physical evaluation that looks at specific muscle strength and function as it relates to golf, a licensed physical therapist will design a custom program to reduce the golfer's physical limitations and develop strength. Any pain or dysfunction that limits golf performance will be addressed.

The process is based on a thorough understanding of the dynamics of the core musculature and biomechanics as they relate to the individual golfer. After an assessment of core muscle deficits, a series of golf-specific exercises and techniques will be recommended to help eliminate pain and muscle dysfunction.

From a fitness standpoint, the program is designed to bring power to a golfer's swing and create greater club head speed to increase driving distance, and strengthen a golfer's core with golf-specific exercise to improve endurance.

The program was designed through close association with internationally known orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Frank Jobe of Los Angeles, medical director of the fitness and rehab for the TOUR. Bob Donatelli, PhD physical therapist, developed the program.

"There's no guess-work," said O'Donnell, who is also a physical therapist. "Everything is based on evidence-based research and professional consultation. You know that if you do X, Y, Z, you're going to get this result. That's what we bring to the pros and that's what we're going to bring to amateur golfers."

The program is being offered at select Physiotherapy Associates clinics throughout the company's 500 clinics in 28 states. Locations can be found on the company's website -- www.strengthenyourgame.com.

Future plans call for the program to be offered at private golf clubs and resort throughout the country and TPC courses.