Why Are Pro Golfers Now Taking Strength and Conditioning Seriously?

We recently ran a blog highlighting Rory McIlroy's impressive weight lifting routine which went viral across the web. Although he admits to not wanting to be known as a PGA strongman, his dedication to strength training (he frequently visits the gym up to 6 times a week) prompted his sponsor Nike to release a video on the web as part of their series on athlete training:

Of course, when a pro golfer is throwing around big weight, it's a pretty interesting beat - take Tiger Woods and his extreme emphasis on fitness in the weight room. But, according to Chris Noss - considered one of the top strength and conditioning coach among the PGA tour - golf strength and conditioning is becoming a serious facet of the game.

Check out this short video where he explains the recent explosion in fitness emphasis with young golfers. Noss also explains why golf requires specific attention to strength and conditioning:

Rory McIlroy certainly is not the only top golfer besides Tiger to put in work in the weight room. As Noss mentions in the above video, Ricky Fowler certainly places a good effort on an intense training. Although know for wearing bright colors and racing, Fowler has trained with Noss for quite some time: