How can a golfer perform at their best?

How do you improve a golfer's performance? What about a junior golfer? There is no single answer, but a recommended holistic approach to improving performance.

April 1, 2024 | Michael Beecher, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, TPI-M2 | Michael Semancik, PT, DPT, OCS, TPI-M2

young golfer by a hole

In this episode, host and physical therapist Mike Beecher, PT, DPT, is joined by fellow physical therapist and TPI certified golf expert Michael Semancik, PT, DPT, and John Schmoll, director of junior golf at Burning Tree Country Club, who has decades of experience working with golfers of all ages and helping them improve their golf game.

John, who is a 2x U.S. kids top 50 instructor (going for three title this year to become a master coach) dives into the winning recipe for a junior's successful performance, including hydration and proper nutrition, not specializing from an early age (at least until 13), monitoring anxiety and stress, and making it a fun outside activity, letting kids be kids.

The trio then expand their perspective across all ages, explaining why Titleist Performance Institute golf screens are essential to establish a baseline and pave the path forward for the most efficient golf swing possible. The screen includes mobility and stability tests, as well as an in-depth look at biomechanics and swing inefficiencies.

They also explain a team approach to the golfer is key — assembling a team of golf trainers, golf pros, physical therapists, mental performance consultants, and nutritionists will set the golfer up for success across all aspects of health and performance.

Listen here, or wherever you get your podcasts.


Michael Beecher

Michael Beecher

Michael Beecher, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, is a Titleist Performance Institute medical professional, a Hospital for Special Surgery credentialed advanced hip clinician and a certified dry needling specialist. He enjoys working with patients to close the loop of injury and recovery, helping them on their journey to rehabilitation from start to finish.

Meet Mike

Michael Semancik

Michael Semancik

Michael Semancik, PT, DPT, OCS, TPI-M2, is a Level 2 TPI Certified Medical and Power Professional who specializes in working with golfers and young athletes, specifically with rowers, hockey players and football players. Michael also brings this passion with him outside of the clinic: He formerly served as the physical therapist for various teams at Princeton University, including men’s hockey and football as well as women’s lightweight crew and volleyball.

Meet Michael