Training for the Long Game

Dear Friend,

I’m happy to report that my body held up through 8 rounds of golf in 5 days across Scotland. I was worried about my back with all the swings, but it turns out the golf wasn’t the hard part.

It was the walking.

When we start with clients, one of the first questions we ask is: What are you training for?

Some train for races or competitions, but most—myself included—train for healthspan. But what does that really mean?

For me, it means training so my body can answer any call throughout life. It’s about creating a foundation that allows me to say “yes” to fulfilling experiences with family and friends. It’s a “Die with Zero” mentality—living fully, not just extending life.

Golf has become a perfect example. What started as a trip to Pebble Beach—gifted by our wives—has turned into an annual tradition with my buddies and a shared obsession with my family. Sure, I want to keep improving my game, but my deeper goals is simple: Stay in the game for life.

I could train for maximum swing speed and chase a 300-yeard drive, but at what cost to my back? I’m not a professional golfer whose legacy depends on wins. I’m training for decades of experiences, not trophies.

Scottie Scheffler’s recent interview stirred some controversy, but I think he nailed it—he’s at peace in the chaos because he’s embraced the journey, not just the outcome.

This trip reminded me that while I focus my regular training on strength, agility, and skill, preparing for a lifetime of golf also means being ready to walk. Miles and Miles. Hills and dunes. Nothing fancy—just consistent, purposeful movement.

My golf goal? Shoot my age someday. Hopefully around 80. The beauty is, I’ll enjoy every step along the way.

Share this with someone who might be sacrificing too much for the end goal—and missing the real reward: The journey itself.

This newsletter is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute giving medical advice or endorsing any treatment. The use or application of the content herein forms no doctor-patient relationship. The information in this newsletter should not substitute for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Thanks,

Mike