Emerson Hospital Golf Conditioning Clinic in Westford Begins March 25

Having played golf for 50 years, there isn’t a shot that Robert Green of Carlisle hasn’t tried. For the second year in a row, however, the 65-year-old is relying upon another weapon to help him prepare for the spring season: the golf conditioning clinic at Emerson Hospital’s Center for Sports Rehabilitation and Specialty Services in Westford.

During the clinic, offered from March 25 through April 17, golfers learn stretching, conditioning and training exercises to maintain their health for the entire golf season. The eight sessions are designed by physical therapists using the latest research, which has been shown to reduce injuries and improve performance.

According to staff physical therapist Richard Kosses, PT, DPT, this is the fourth year that Emerson has offered the golf conditioning clinic, and the second year that it is being run out of the new third floor location at 133 Littleton Road.

“I like to think of it as spring training for golfers,” Kosses said, noting that all skill levels can benefit, and many participate multiple years because sessions are customized with new exercises according to fitness level. “The goal is to keep our local golfers on the course for the whole season.”

Green, who suffered neck, rotator cuff and knee injuries in the past that required surgery, said he initially signed up in order to enhance his core strength and flexibility. He plays twice a week once the golf season gets underway, but said he typically suffers from muscle soreness in his lower back and various other areas for the first few weeks. He also takes special care not to aggravate a recurring hamstring injury.

“Staying flexible pays dividends in how far you can hit the ball,” Green said. “Last spring, I didn’t suffer the aches and pains I usually get. Since it worked for me last year, that was motivation enough for me to sign up again.”

Green, who has had his share of physical therapy for overuse injuries, noted that the staff is highly qualified. In addition, class sizes are kept low so participants don’t have to wait to use weight machines or the other strengthening equipment. There is also a social element, he noted, with camaraderie among the golfers.

“There’s always something to learn. I’ve been playing golf a long time,” he joked, “but it doesn’t mean I’m any good at it.”

The golf conditioning clinic will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:15 p.m., from March 25 through April 17 at the Emerson Hospital Health Center, 133 Littleton Road in Westford. The cost is $150.

Registration is required by calling (978) 287-3777. Space is limited.

Emerson Hospital is a multi-site health system headquartered in Concord, Mass., with additional facilities in Sudbury, Groton and Westford. The 179-bed hospital provides advanced medical services to more than 300,000 individuals in 25 towns. To learn more, visit www.emersonhospital.org.