If you have turned on the television to watch any golf tournament over the last couple of years, you obviously already know the strong role that fitness plays in improving your golf game. When you engage in a regular fitness routine, you're preparing your body for improved performance by building a lean, strong, fit physique capable of more control and consistency with your clubs. Being fit enables your golf skills to shine through, and is generally reflected in a lower handicap.

Give up your old gym routine.

Change is often difficult to come by, but necessary as times change and we learn new information. Make sure that the exercises you are concentrating on now will help you out on the course. Adding bulk to your frame is being replaced with a more sculpted look which focuses on athletic performance. New routines include more emphasis on cable systems, fitness balls, dumbbells, and medicine balls. When it comes to golf training, it's time to think outside the box!

Improve your muscle strength.

You want your muscle strength to be the same on both sides of your body to create a fluid, powerful swing. You should particularly focus on back and shoulder strength where strength discrepancies can come into play.

Focus on core stability.

Your core is your torso ? the parts of your body that are actively involved in your swing. You want to perform exercises that will strengthen your core or trunk region. This will provide you with needed stability during your swing.

Focus on balance.

If you have good balance, you will be able to transfer your weight during your swing maintaining stability throughout the motion. Good balance also improves your reaction times and movement speed.

Build flexibility.

Range of motion is important to the game of golf because it allows you to execute an exceptional swing without limitations or restrictions. Along the lines of balance, make sure that your flexibility is equal on both sides of your body. Always take a few minutes to stretch and warm-up before you begin a round of golf, so you begin in a flexible state.

If you learn one thing about improving your golf game, hopefully it will be the strong role that physical fitness plays in making you a better golfer and more solid player. These are some great areas to begin your road to improvement.

Susan Hill is a nationally recognized fitness trainer, CHEK golf biomechanic and sports nutrition specialist. For more information on golf specific nutrition, exercises or stretches, visit http://www.fitnessforgolf.com