The benefits of Yoga for golf

At first glance the similarities between yoga and golf might seem nonexistent, but once the layers of each activity are peeled away the core basics of each begin to show a series of complimentary effects. Flexibility, strength, balance and performance are things that both activities have in common, and once a person can get past the belief that the two are mutually exclusive the potential for improvement is guaranteed.

Many non-professional golfers inevitably focus on the one thing they believe is the most important aspect of their game: technique. In order to perfect this technique they will spend countless hours at the driving range and on the green, taking lessons from trainers and constantly working towards achieving the perfect swing. And while practice does indeed warrant improvement, and technique is definitely a large part of what makes a good game of golf possible, there is an inherent level of fitness that is mandatory for the best game possible to be achieved. The body is a golfer’s secret weapon, the one thing in their arsenal which can create the perfect game of golf…or the worst game of golf. If you are one of those individuals who is constantly struggling to find your stride than chances are your body is to blame.

The importance of control

Every technique in golf requires stamina, balance and perfect control over the muscles. And that doesn’t mean simply the muscles in the arms, as many people would think. Each muscle in the body is connected to another, and just as much as it is important to have a strong pair of shoulders to drive the ball down the course, it is equally important to have a strong core to help keep the body in a naturally-balanced state during a swing, a strong set of wrists to maintain grip on the club, a strong set of forearms to control the wrists and connect them to the biceps and shoulders, which in turn are connected to the trunk, which controls the speed of the core and its ability to turn, as well as connecting to the quads and other leg muscles which affect stability. Each and every muscle is vitally important in a golf swing, regardless if it is a long drive or a putt, and the only way to make your game of golf perfect is through muscle control.

While the Eastern variants of yoga focus more on the spiritual aspects of the activity, and the Western focus mostly on the physical aspects, a person does not have to be religious in any way to get the benefits of a yoga workout. Yoga is all about control, ranging from controlling the breathing of the body to the various muscle groups that connect to each other and allow for movement of the body in day-to-day activities. A master of yoga is supremely flexible, able to control every muscle in their body down to the tiniest finger. Yoga is a system of theory and practice, with the combination of breathing exercises and physical postures culminating in total control over one’s physical being.

Beyond the gym

Anyone can go to the gym and bulk up through a series of interval training exercises or circuit training. And while strength is definitely an important part of golf and can affect the outcome of a person’s game, control over that strength is more important than simply the ability to hit the ball for a certain distance.

A yoga routine lasts anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes for an average session, and each session will take a participant through a series of controlled movements and breathing techniques that focus on one thing above all: total control and balance of the body. Forms such as Rishi’s Posture help strengthen the back and spine, promoting flexibility and streamlining your ability to twist your trunk, which helps in every aspect of a drive or putt, while the Extended Triangle can help strengthen the legs, calves and spine, which helps control posture during the swing, allowing for greater accuracy. Meanwhile, Chest Expansions and Forward Bends combined with Seated Twists and Bending Half Twists can help increase the strength of the upper body and core, allowing for greater distance on the long drives. There are literally dozens of forms which can help achieve the total balance necessary for a perfect game of golf.
But perhaps the most important aspect of yoga beyond the strengthening of the muscles and the increased flexibility is the aspect of control. As one begins to fall into a routine through the use of yoga they will find themselves naturally slowing their breathing patterns and focusing more intently on the accuracy and power of each and every swing, and with the total balance and control that yoga allows each swing is a work of art that sends the ball exactly where it was meant to, every time.

Lynni first did her research by calling other virtual golf simulators and observing customer service, seeing what made the product sellable. She then organized her data into grids and weighed out the pros and cons. Lynni partnered up with HD Golf before meeting them in person. She says, “I am a big believer in personal relationships. I immediately felt like they were genuinely good people.” Lynni says that she considers some of them her closest friends. HD golf took digital photography and satellite imagery to capture real photos of some of the top golf courses all over the world.

Combining cutting edge interior design with virtual reality created demand for Lynni’s new product. Virtual Golf Girl was on the rise in both commercial and residential settings. Lynni has done several golf rooms for different clients, and she claims that “the room dictates what it needs.” Virtual golf rooms can be based around “true golf” themes, like Lynni’s first one she ever designed. It was outfitted with PGA tour furniture, murals of Augusta National, trophy cases and more. Her rooms can also be centered around a client’s hobby or varied interests, such as a motorcycle golf room that Lynni designed. She used the pieces of vintage motorcycles to make the room pop.

You can say that Lynni Megginson is sort of a renaissance woman when it comes to these virtual golf rooms. She not only designs the interior, but also works with construction. She even knows how to operate and maneuver the HD Golf technology. These virtual golf rooms are also in demand for larger companies trying to increase team building or trying to gain business. As we all know, a great deal of business is done on the golf course, so bringing customers to play golf in your own office setting is ideal. These virtual golf rooms also turn into televisions, slideshow presentations, and media rooms. They are totally automated with large screens, high definition, and surround sound.

These golf rooms not only entertain and help with business; they also aid you to become a better player. A stereoscopic camera takes a live picture of you hitting the ball. It can then measure launch angle, swing speed, club face angle, and other statistics. Lynni says, “No two people play golf the same way. This machine can turn someone into a scratch golfer.” This is also a benefit to people that cannot play golf all year round. If they had one of Lynni’s virtual golf rooms in their house, they could play all year long, even with people from around the world! International interaction is possible through the internet connection. You can even see your competitor’s ball flight on your very own screen. If you want to challenge your friend in China to 18 holes at Torrey Pines, it is possible through this technology. These rooms will challenge and interest you, because you are not only limited to one course. You can select courses based on prestige or difficulty. Some of the courses include Kiawah’s Ocean Course, Pebble Beach, Bethpage, and Teeth of the Dog. Since none of the courses are computer animated, you will feel like you are actually playing a top 10 course. Lynni says, “You can see every pine cone and bunker on the course.” Lynni says that she is partial to Pinehurst #2 because she feels it is a true golf course and she grew up in North Carolina.

Although Lynni Megginson is currently located in Washington D.C, she travels around the country designing golf rooms for her clients. She does an expo in a showhouse every six months. There you can test the simulator and view her furnishings. In late June or early July, Lynni will be opening her very first permanent showroom in Beverly Hills, California. There you can check out her award-winning golf rooms and demo the high definition equipment.
If you are interested in building your very own golf room for either your home or business.

You can visit Lynni Megginson’s website at virtualgolfgirl.com
or contact her at 202.701.GOLF

The 2nd annual G Women Winter Escape is four days and three nights of world-class golf, luxuriating in sunny South Florida and enjoying dining, shopping or just relaxing.

From January 20-23, join other ladies who share a passion for the golf and discover the best that Miami and the rest of South Florida has to offer, both on and off the course.

Here’s what’s included in your G Women Winter Golf & Spa Escape:

• 3 Nights of luxury accommodations at the exclusive Fairmont Turnberry in beautiful Miami Florida. Feel free to extend your stay or choose one of our pre or post event packages.

• Welcome Bag upon arrival

• Opening Reception on Thursday, January 20th – meet the other participating ladies and savor many of South Florida Flavors.

• 2 rounds of championship golf on the Fairmont Soffer Course, former LPGA host, and top rated Crandon Golf Course on beautiful Key Biscayne.

• Golf clinic and custom club fitting

• Fashion show and personalized style consultation

• All levels of Golfers invited from beginners to low handicappers or just attend and relax with the Spa Package

Register Today

Golf Package – Only $1,395 (double occupancy)

Spa only package (no golf) - Only$1,395 (double occupancy)

Spa Package includes $ 350.00 credit in the World Class Fairmont Turnberry Spa in place of rounds of golf

Book Your Trip Today
Contact: Stacy Evos
Phone: 617.314.7266
email: gmag@agirlsgottago.com

prices are land only, subject to minimum number of attendees, price does not include airfare, airport transportation & meals unless noted

Men

1. Greg Norman
2. Fairway & Greene
3. Ecco Shoes
4. Footjoy
5. Nike Belts

Women

1. Fairway & Greene
2. Tehama
3. Lela
4. Ecco Shoes

After visiting W Retreat & Spa – Maldives in the Republic of Maldives, many luxury seekers may never want to leave. This vacation gem caters toward an array of sophisticated travelers, particularly golfers itching to wander off the more conventional vacation path while visiting golf courses in Asia. Owned by W Hotels, one of the world’s fastest-growing style brands, and its parent company, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. the exclusive resort offers golfers on the move a relaxing, seaside sanctuary on the secluded Fesdu Island in the North Ari Atoll.

A favorite among local and visiting golfers alike, the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables takes luxury to a whole new level, allowing visitors to get in as much play time as possible while indulging in an array of lush accommodations and unique amenities.

For more information visit: www.biltmorehotel.com

Trying to understand what a vacation or lifestyle destination is like from the outside looking in can be difficult. And informed decisions can mean the difference between wishing for a great getaway experience and ensuring one.
A consortium of six golf-and-resort lifestyle properties in Alberta, Canada understand this and have banded together to offer as fine a collection as perhaps exists in North America. And they’ve helped prospective visitors better understand what they offer through their brand tagline – “Canadian Rockies Golf: Historic. Dramatic. Untamed.”
Here are the precise reasons why each of these descriptive words were selected by this group, which includes Stewart Creek Golf and Country Club, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Kananaskis Country Golf Course, Canmore Golf & Curling Club, Silvertip Resort, and The Fairmont Banff Springs.

This tropical haven redefines luxury living and sets new heights in world-class golfing – all set against the backdrop of nature’s wonders.

By Jennilyn Q. Salvador

Ancient people believed that Punta Mita is a place of spiritual renewal – and it only takes a sweeping glance of its breathtaking landscape to reaffirm that the belief can effortlessly hold true even today. Owned and developed by DINE, a premier real estate developer in Mexico, it’s a discreetly sophisticated and disarmingly charming resort and residential community that sprawls 1,500 acres. Featuring everything from lavish accommodations to designer golf courses, Punta Mita has easily become the country’s most coveted address both for homeowners and golfers alike.
Mexico draws visitors from around the world with its take of tropical paradise, an intricate tapestry of nature, cultural diversity and warm people. And Punta Mita is like a microcosm of this fascinating country. A pear-shaped peninsula bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the thriving flora at the heart of Riviera Nayarit on the other, the resort offers residential lots and recreational amenities amidst unspoiled forests and white-sand beaches.
Punta Mita started out with a vision from its developer DINE, a well-thought of and researched low-density master plan that has made the luxury resort the captivating enclave it is today. It proudly offers a discerning range of real estate properties to suit the buyers’ diverse needs and preferences. From trendy and well appointed condo units to spacious and traditional Mexican-themed villas – and yes, even readily available home sites – Punta Mita has it all. And speaking of accommodations, this gated community also features two of the most prominent international hotels within its vast compound, the Four Seasons and St. Regis.
Just outside its premises, there are almost limitless possibilities to commune with nature. The place being seaside, aquatic adventures are already a given: sea kayaking, swimming with dolphins, whale watching, diving, snorkeling, sailing – just about anything, really. Meanwhile, for residents and guests who want to stay on dry land, the area is also ideal for hiking and horseback riding. And for a dose of Mexico’s vibrant charm, the quaint and laidback town of Puerto Vallarta is merely a short drive away. This rustic village boasts of a thriving arts community, gourmet restaurants, and cosmopolitan nightlife all while still maintaining cobblestone streets and traditional Mexican architecture.
But apart from its impressive array of amenities and luxurious residential properties, what probably put the Punta Mita Resort in a class all on its own are the two signature golf courses it proudly houses. Designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus, these courses offer spectacular ocean views and, of course, world-class play.
The first one, Pacifico, is a unique championship course that inspired Conde Nast Traveler readers to name Four Seasons Punta Mita as the world’s number one golf resort in 2006 and 2008. It has an optional par-three hole called the “Tail of the Whale.” Measuring 199 years, it is the largest natural island green on earth. The second course, called Bahia, is the newest addition to Punta Mita’s golfing success. Opened in late 2008 and featuring six ocean holes and playing between 5,180 and 7,030 yards, it is every bit as amazing as its sister course. The Bahia championship course is encompassed in the property of the St. Regis, and also includes the communities of Porta Fortuna, La Punta Estates and El Encanto. With abundantly green complexes and a challenging fairway, Bahia provides a refreshing counterpart to Pacifico for golf enthusiasts.
Complimenting the courses is the exclusive Punta Mita Golf Club, which is open only to Punta Mita’s property owners and their visitors, and the guests of Four Seasons and St. Regis Resorts. As expected from such an elite club, its members enjoy access to the casual and well-appointed clubhouse, which features a string of convenient facilities like dining and bag storage.
Punta Mita Resort is located on Bahia de Banderas, Nayarit, Mexico. For more information on the resort, please visit www.puntamita.com.

With animated cities and sweeping natural landscapes, Australia has all the makings of a distinctly unique holiday destination. And this holds true whether or not you’re up for tee!

By Jennilyn Q. Salvador

Australia is considered the sixth largest nation in the world, and it’s also the only country to govern an entire continent. Encompassing approximately the same size as that of the 48 mainland states of America, it ironically has the lowest human population density: only about two people in every square kilometer. But Australia is far from wanting in interesting sights. Quite the opposite, actually, as it offers myriad places of interest to appeal to just about any kind of traveler – from the easy-going and laidback nature lover, to the fun-loving and trendy partygoer. Oh, and yes, this country-continent also draws many golf enthusiasts to its shores – with very good reason.

At the mere mention of Australia, many images immediately come to mind, and without a doubt, the Great Barrier Reef would be on most people’s list. And why wouldn’t it be? This spectacular site is known as the world’s largest reef system, stretching over an area of about 344,400 square kilometers. The Great Barrier Reef is so big that it can be seen in outer space. Now, if you want to take a detour and step on dry land (at least part of the time), there’s Tasmania to lure you. An archipelago of over 300 islands, it offers more than a handful of national parks and reserves, perfect for taking a welcome retreat back to nature. If you’re more of a city person, Australia doesn’t disappoint either. Sydney, the country’s capital, has a lively arts and culture scene, with the internationally-renowned Sydney Opera House as one of its most popular attractions. Melbourne likewise has plenty to offer, from food and wine to shopping places.

The interesting play of contrasts from its varied geography to its myriad lifestyle scene seems to extend to its golf courses. Australia has some of the most beautiful courses around, and it’s no surprise why it is frequented by golfers around the word. Here are just four of the tee venues you might want to keep a tab on:

Barnbougle Dunes

Located in Tasmania, Barnbougle Dunes seems to hint of the island state’s penchant for nature. This golf course, found on the North East coast, is set against the backdrop of long stretches of coastlines, lush wilderness, and cool climate. Barnbougle Dunes also mirrors the charms of coastal courses which are associated in Scotland and Ireland, and even at a glance, the inspiration is well worth it. The Dunes is voted Australia’s number 1 Public Golf Course; it is number 7 in the world’s public access course; and if that isn’t enough, it landed as the 35th best course on the planet.

http://www.barnbougledunes.com.au/

Joondalup Resort

Well-appointed rooms and suites, a number of fine restaurants and cafes, and a host of different facilities. With all these at hand, Joondalup Resort establishes itself as one of the must-see destinations north of Perth – after all, it is just 25 minutes away by car. Apart from its close proximity to white sand beaches of the Sunset Coast, it also prides itself with having kangaroos freely roam the area, and an animated wild floral setting. The golf course, not surprisingly, holds the same appeal as the rest of the place does. The landscape changes from lush bushlands to impressive limestone quarries, making the play more challenging and interesting.

http://www.joondalupresort.com.au/

The Cut

Opened only in 2005, The Cut Golf Course is steadily making a name for itself. It was recognized in 2008 by Australian Golf Digest Magazine as the number 1 golf course, and at present it remains to be one of the top 10 courses in the country. That’s quite unusual for a golf course that is fairly new, but The Cut continuously proves that it deserves the recognitions it receives. The golf course is set against a backdrop of ocean-front dunes, and it features stunning views along the coast scattered among its strategically-placed 18 holes. Playing at The Cut can be synonymous to redefining one’s perception of this classic game: a beautiful background combined with the vivid imagination of its designer.

http://www.the-cut.com.au/

Hamilton Island Golf Club

Hamilton Island Golf Club is serenely situated just at the edge of The Great Barrier Reef, making it capture some of the most breathtaking sceneries nature has to offer. Aside from this distinct advantage, Hamilton is likewise regarded as the only championship golf course in the country. It was designed to cater to people of all levels in golf, from beginners and resort guests, to serious enthusiasts and professional golfers. But perhaps just as important as its design is the rugged natural beauty surrounding it, with terrains and beaches encompassed in its scenery that accounts for a memorable experience – even outside the golf course.

http://www.hamiltonislandgolfclub.com.au