by McKinley Hawe, MAT, LAT, ATC

Golf is often viewed as a slower, controlled sport, but anyone who has played knows that success depends on consistency, positioning, and endurance. Small adjustments in mechanics, repetition, and preparation can make the difference between a clean drive and what some might call a “planned lay-up” within view of the fairway.

The same holds true for the industrial athlete. Day after day, performance is built on reps, positioning, and the ability to stand the course of a long shift.

On the Range

Just like golfers spend hours on the driving range working on their shots, the industrial athlete puts in daily reps on the job. While a golfer carries a bag full of drivers, irons, and putters, the industrial athlete relies on tools at the workstation that require consistent, hands-on use.

Repetitive use of these tools can lead to irritation in the medial elbow, commonly referred to as golfer’s elbow. Symptoms include pain and stiffness on the inner elbow, weakened grip, and tingling.

Reducing reps between hands to share the workload, using a pre-shift warmup to stretch involved muscles, and prioritizing recovery strategies at the end of the shift can all help. Hours on the range do not always fix a swing, but smart interventions can keep the body performing at work.

The Swing

Every golfer has heard it, “Don’t pull your head. You’re swinging a golf club, not a bat!” But habits are not always easy to correct. Improper swing mechanics can lead to soreness, especially in the low back, that lasts longer than 18 holes.

The same applies at the workstation. Just as golfers focus on alignment and controlled rotation, industrial athletes benefit from PREPARED principles like [A] Aligning shoulders, hips, and toes, [R] Remaining in the Green Zone, and using [P] Proper lifting posture. Being intentional about positioning and movement is one of the most effective ways to stay strong and perform like a PGA pro on the job.

From Tee to Green

While golf carts are helpful, they are not always a realistic option. Even with one, 18 holes still require extended periods of standing and walking.

Industrial athletes often spend the majority of their shifts on their feet as well. Proper footwear is essential. Insoles can help cushion long hours of standing, and ergonomic mats provide an added layer between the ground and the body. Whether on the course or on the floor, support underfoot makes a difference over time.

Neither golf nor the job is decided by a single swing or a single shift. It’s the accumulation of reps, positioning, and support that determines how the body holds up. Consistency is built long before it’s tested.

McKinley Hawe, MAT, LAT, ATC || McKinley spent the last 4 years in the secondary school and physical therapy settings before making the switch to the industrial setting in 2025. In his free time, he enjoys the outdoors including everything from running, kayaking, golfing, and walking with his fiancé (Erin) and their dog (Hawkeye). He’s a Green Bay Packers fan and also follows any sport featuring the Iowa Hawkeyes.

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Be sure to check out our other blogs for further injury prevention education and tips for the industrial athlete from Work Right!