“How Strength Training Can Add Distance to Your Golf Game” by Chris Webb
Most of our AWGN Winter Health & Fitness Challenge members know Chris Webb as the strength coach helping women build confidence, strength and healthier habits. But recently, Chris swapped the gym floor for the golf course and joined us at Commonwealth Golf Club to work on his own game.
For many women, improving distance on the golf course feels like a mystery.
We often focus on swing changes, equipment upgrades or technique - but one of the biggest game changers for increasing distance is something many golfers still overlook:
Strength training.
At AWGN, we’re seeing more women embrace golf fitness not only to improve performance, but also to build confidence, energy and longevity on the course.
And according to strength coach Chris Webb, the benefits go far beyond simply “hitting the ball harder.”
Why Strength Matters in Golf
Golf is an athletic movement.
Every swing requires:
rotation
balance
stability
coordination
mobility
power generation
Without strength, it becomes harder to:
generate clubhead speed
maintain posture throughout the round
create consistent contact
reduce fatigue late in the game
This is especially important for women looking to improve distance while also preventing injury.
Strength = Power
One of the biggest misconceptions women have about strength training is the fear of “bulking up.”
In reality, properly structured strength training helps women:
move more efficiently
generate more rotational power
improve core stability
create more force through the ground
improve overall athleticism
All of which can contribute to increased driving distance and consistency.
Chris Webb explains that some of the most important areas for golfers to strengthen include:
glutes
core
upper back
shoulders
hips
These muscle groups play a major role in rotational strength and posture throughout the swing.
The Hidden Benefit: Energy & Endurance
Walking 18 holes can burn anywhere from 800 to 1500 calories, depending on the course and conditions.
That’s a huge physical demand - particularly for women balancing busy work, family and life schedules around golf.
Strength training doesn’t just improve power.
It also helps improve:
endurance
recovery
posture
mobility
overall energy levels
Many women are surprised by how much stronger and more confident they feel on the course after beginning consistent resistance training.
You Don’t Need to Train Like an Athlete
One of the best things about golf fitness is that small changes can create significant improvements.
You don’t need:
❌ hours in the gym
❌ complicated workouts
❌ extreme programs
Simple, consistent strength work 2–3 times per week can make a huge difference over time.
Even basic exercises focused on:
squats
glute strength
core stability
balance
mobility
can improve movement quality and golf performance.
Confidence Changes Everything
Perhaps one of the most underrated benefits of strength training is confidence.
Feeling physically stronger often translates into:
more confidence standing over the ball
greater trust in your swing
improved posture and body awareness
more energy throughout the round
And ultimately…
more enjoyment of the game.
Final Thoughts
Golf fitness is no longer just for elite athletes or professional golfers.
More women are recognising that strength training can help them:
✔ hit the ball further
✔ feel stronger and fitter
✔ improve confidence
✔ reduce injury risk
✔ enjoy golf for longer
At the end of the day, strength training isn’t about becoming a bodybuilder.
It’s about building a stronger body that supports both your golf game and your life.
And that’s something every golfer can benefit from.