116: The Truth About Speed Training (And Why It's Probably Hurting You)

In this episode, Shaun takes on one of the most hyped and most misunderstood trends in golf fitness: overspeed training. This isn't an anti-speed-training episode. It's a pro-doing-things-in-the-right-order episode.What you'll learn:Why speed training tools CAN work but only for about 5% of golfers who are physically ready for themThe two baseline requirements for safe speed training: adequate rotational mobility in all four rotary centers, and power output metrics that meet or exceed thresholds relative to current club head speedWhat happens when a "ticking time bomb" golfer grabs a speed stick the compensation patterns and injury risksThe bald tires analogy: why flooring it without the physical foundation is a recipe for disasterReal injuries caused by premature speed training: back injuries keeping golfers off the course for months, elbows requiring medical intervention, lingering shoulder issuesWhy the marketing around speed devices is compelling but misleading and how to see through itThe difference between case studies and actual science (control groups, blinding, large sample sizes)The grip strength trend: why the data across a very large sample shows no meaningful direct relationship between grip strength and club head speedHow to approach everything on social media with curiosity ask "how do we know?" and "show me the data"When speed training IS appropriate: after passing mobility screens, after building adequate strength and power, as the final layerWhy tracking speed every swing during training sessions dramatically improves results (9 out of 10 who track vs 2 out of 10 who don't)Key takeaway: Speed training is the cherry on top, not the whole sundae. Mobility first. Strength second. Speed last. Do it in that order and you'll gain speed safely and permanently. Skip the first two and you're rolling the dice with your body.Resources mentioned:Free Home AssessmentFairway Performance websiteEpisode 111 — The 3 Ways Every Golfer Can Add 10 Yards in 10 WeeksHave questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!