Golf Meritage is a fusion of golf instruction and different fitness modalities. Our intention is to find each golfer’s strength and build success upon it. Golf Meritage is built upon a foundation of both of our certifications from PGA, TPI, Yoga for Golfers and the Cooper Institute. We are grateful to have worked with clients of all ages and abilities who have contributed to the most joyous part of our combined 50+ years of experience.
By Ann-Kristin Allen and Gevin Allen :: Photography by Kelsey Grudle
The Golf Meritage program is a combination of different types of group golf/fitness classes (inside and outside at the practice range), private and semi-private golf/fitness instruction and playing lessons uniquely designed by both the golf and fitness professionals. Strength training, flexibility, endurance, power and stability are the key benefits both on and off the course.
Everybody begins their golfing experience with different abilities; we wanted to create a comprehensive program to support their efforts and their specific goals. As an example, the focus on golf instruction is very different for a beginner compared to a more experienced player. A beginner requires a broader instruction while an experienced player might require more detailed instruction.
The same approach applies to the body mechanics. We start by performing our player development assessment created by CEO and founder of Yoga for Golfers Katherine Roberts, along with a TPI Fitness Screening. Together this is the most beneficial screening process for our clients. For a beginner we address stability and mobility, while an experienced player might require more focus on specific aspects of their game such as increasing consistency, focus or distance. The body is made up of alternating patterns of stable segments connected by mobile joints. If the pattern is broken, pain, dysfunction and poor performance will occur. This is even more important for a beginner to understand and how it applies to their body as they are learning their golf mechanics. Because the golf swing is occurring in three planes of motion and starting from a static position, we want to ensure joint integrity as they continue playing and practicing. There are also different approaches used when teaching children, young adults, men, women and the part of the population with specific medical conditions or restrictions.
We have created a medical advisory board that is available to our clients. It is very important for us and for our clients to understand that we are practicing within our realm of expertise, golf instruction and fitness. Our medical advisory board includes:
• Dr. Michael T. Charlton, MD (Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in trauma and joint replacement, President and CEO of South Texas Orthopedic Specialty Group)
• Dr. Patrick Doyle, DC (Chiropractic and Sports Injury Rehabilitation, clinic doctor and owner of Hill Country Spine and Sport)
• Dr. Craig Glauser, MD (Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in foot/ankle surgery, partner at Orthopedic Performance Institute)
• Dr. Charles McCurley, MD (Sports and Family Medicine of Boerne)
• Lisa Schlagel (Acupuncturist, Acupuncture & Natural Healing Therapies)
• Karen Walton (Massage Therapist, Cordillera Ranch)
Golfers who are participating in the Golf Meritage program on a regular basis experience fewer aches and pains and therefore are able to practice and play more. We are bridging golf mechanics and body mechanics in a fun and unique way which we hope will contribute to the growth of the game of golf.
Ann-Kristin Allen is the TPI Certified Fitness Professional Level 3 and Certified Yoga for Golfers Level 2, and Gevin Allen is the Director of Golf Instruction and Player Development at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. They can be reached at akallen@cordilleraranch.com and gallen@cordilleraranch.com.
