It’s not exactly an April Fool’s prank on the world, but here is one of the most foolish things I hear a lot…
WON’T LIFTING WEIGHTS MAKE ME BULKY?
Which is golf code for “I don’t want to lose flexibility.”
“Fear of bulk” is one of the biggest myths surrounding strength training.
Inasmuch as I do feel like a broken record, I do get it.
A few years after college, I ran into a guy I went to high school with.
And he turned into a monster!
His biceps were so big that his buddy had to put down the back of his collar because he couldn’t reach it.
He wasn’t a golfer, but I’m sure he would have been terrible because of how stiff he was.
Guess what?
Yeah, he was popping steroids like they were Skittles.
And eating copious amounts of protein.
So, my quick answer is “NO”…
…you’re not going to get stiff and bulky when you lift weights.
Instead, you’ll get lean and toned.
Here’s why:
Strength training is only 10-15% of either of the “slim down or bulk up” equations.
The other is nutrition and total calories consumed.
Weight Loss = Strength Training + Caloric Deficit
Bulking = Strength Training + Caloric Surplus
When DeChambeau bulked up, he was consuming a ton of calories.
Estimates have it around 5,000-6,000 each day – probably double what his “maintenance” number of calories is.
So, if you’re worried about getting too big and stiff, remember that it is really, really hard to bulk up – guys try for years and years with zero luck.
Don’t let the irrational fear of bulking keep you from the most powerful training a golfer has at his disposal – strength/resistance training.
And like always…
STAY STRONG,
Jeff
PS – If you’re a member of the 18STRONG Membership, then you can check out the new total body workout we loaded for April…there are some new, fun exercises we don’t usually use that I’ve been testing (on myself, of course).
If, for some crazy reason you’re not a member yet, jump in today to see how so many golfers are getting into the best shape of their lives…and having fun doing it.