Scottie Scheffler`s remarkable golf performance isn`t just about talent on the course; it`s deeply rooted in his rigorous off-course preparation.
During the Genesis Invitational, Scheffler faced a challenging bunker shot. Instead of just getting the ball out, he aimed for the green, showcasing his adaptability and skill. He executed an unconventional swing, maintaining his composure and securing a par.
“In those awkward spots, you need to adjust your stance and swing to get the ball where it needs to be,” Scheffler explained. “Sometimes, I manage to pull it off.”
This incident highlighted a crucial, often overlooked aspect of Scheffler`s game: his fitness. Beyond his natural talent and dedication to technique, a strong emphasis on physical conditioning has been instrumental in his success over the last few years.
“Initially, he wasn`t a gym enthusiast,” revealed his trainer, Dr. Troy Van Biezen. “It took a couple of wake-up calls in college for him to realize the importance of off-course work for injury prevention and peak performance.”
Last year was phenomenal for Scheffler, marked by a Masters victory and seven tournament wins. Even after hand surgery this year, his commitment to his process, especially his pre-game preparation, remains his anchor as he aims for another Masters title.
“In golf, external factors are uncontrollable,” Van Biezen pointed out. “But fitness is within our control.”
Van Biezen recalls working with a young Scheffler at 14, noting that growth spurts often cause imbalances in young golfers. Scheffler`s rapid growth impacted his flexibility, a common issue Van Biezen addresses for many young athletes.
Van Biezen, now with the Dallas Stars, focuses on rectifying physical weaknesses through mobility, stability, and strength training. His experience with top athletes like Jordan Spieth and Tiger Woods has shaped his training philosophy.
“I believe in building strong legs and glutes,” Van Biezen stated, echoing a sentiment from Tiger Woods about maintaining strength throughout tournaments.
Scheffler`s physical changes during college initially affected his game. Van Biezen collaborated with Scheffler`s coaches to help him adapt and regain his form.
Despite early professional success, Scheffler struggled with consistency and closing out tournaments. Van Biezen identified cardiovascular fitness as a key area for improvement.
The solution was an intense offseason training camp in 2021, focusing on endurance, strength, and flexibility.
“We incorporated high-intensity metabolic training to push his limits,” Van Biezen described, preparing Scheffler for the physical demands of major tournaments.
While acknowledging that fitness alone isn`t the sole determinant of success, Van Biezen recognizes its significant role in Scheffler`s ascent to the top. Scheffler`s fitness regimen has become a crucial advantage, contributing to his remarkable consistency in closing out tournaments.
Scheffler emphasizes that his fitness work isn`t about brute strength but about efficient body movement to prevent pain and optimize his swing.
“Proper body rotation allows for better loading and power transfer,” Scheffler explained. “Without dedicated fitness work, my body wouldn`t withstand the demands of professional golf.”
Competitive spirit extends to Scheffler`s gym sessions. Challenges like rowing sprints with fellow golfers Tom Kim and Ryan Palmer fuel his workouts.
“Scottie thrives on competition, even in the gym,” Van Biezen shared, highlighting the playful rivalry that enhances their training.
Van Biezen understands Scheffler`s body and swing intimately, able to identify subtle signs of imbalance. He and Scheffler`s swing coach collaborate closely, using video analysis to fine-tune his training remotely.
“Having worked with Scottie for so long, I can quickly assess his movements and tailor exercises to correct any issues,” Van Biezen explained.
Simple mobility exercises targeting hip rotation can make a significant difference, turning a good week into an exceptional one.
Scheffler`s curiosity and willingness to learn about his training underscore his commitment. He has embraced Van Biezen`s methods, incorporating recovery tools like cold plunges and compression boots into his routine.
“While power and speed are important, the foundation is consistency,” Van Biezen noted. “Scottie understands the daily commitment to mobility and stability.”
During tournaments, Scheffler follows a structured weekly routine, adjusting his workouts based on his schedule and physical state.
“We adapt the routine weekly, considering factors like travel and physical demands,” Van Biezen said, emphasizing personalized adjustments.
Nutrition, guided by Van Biezen and supported by Scheffler`s health-conscious wife Meredith, completes the optimization puzzle.
“Meredith plays a key role in ensuring Scottie`s healthy eating habits,” Van Biezen acknowledged.
While Scheffler enjoys pizza, Van Biezen ensures balance and moderation, reinforcing that a holistic approach to fitness and nutrition is vital for maintaining peak performance.
Marcus Blakely 
Wesley Dunham