108: The #1 Reason Your Back Hurts After Golf (It's Not Your Back)

Are you spending $150 a lesson and not improving? It's probably not your instructor's fault and it's not yours either. The problem is that your body can't physically do what your instructor is asking it to do. In this episode, I break down why the body has to come first before golf lessons, how fixing your physical limitations turns a 2% return on instruction into a 15-20% return, and the exact first step you need to take before booking your next lesson. If you've ever been frustrated that lessons aren't sticking, this one's for you.🔗 Free Home Assessment: https://fairwayperformancevipcoaching.com/self-assessment📲 Follow on Instagram: @shaun.diachkoff🌐 Website: www.fairwayperformance.comHave questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

In this episode, Shaun breaks down why the vast majority of golfers are physically unprepared for what their swing demands and what to do about it.What you'll learn:The three profiles of golfers: unicorn, balanced, and ticking time bomb — and which one you probably areWhy that stiffness, soreness, and slow distance loss is NOT a normal part of agingThe four rotary centers that determine whether your body can safely handle your swing speedWhy "just getting older" is a false belief that's costing you years of great golfThe free 5-minute home assessment that gives you a clear picture of where your body standsHow golfers in their 60s and 70s are GAINING distance, not losing itThe realistic timeline for measurable improvement (hint: it's weeks, not years)Key takeaway: The body is the only club you use on every single shot. If it's broken, nothing else matters not your new driver, not your lessons, not your putting drill. Assess first. Fix the foundation. Then everything else gets better.Resources mentioned:Free Home Assessment: Fairway Performance websiteRemote coaching program application: Connect with [YOUR NAME]:Instagram: @shaun.diachkoffEmail: [email protected] questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

In this episode, Shaun explains why 98% of golfers with back pain are treating the symptom, not the cause and reveals the two areas of the body that are almost always the real problem.What you'll learn:Why "where the pain is" is almost never "where the problem is"The role of your lumbar spine in the golf swing (hint: it's supposed to be stable, not the thing doing all the rotating)How limited hip internal rotation — especially on the lead side — forces your low back to compensate on every single swingWhy your thoracic spine (mid-back) being locked up creates a double whammy for your lumbar spineThe "middle child" analogy: your low back is stuck doing everyone else's jobWhy foam rolling your back, getting massages, and even injections only provide temporary reliefThe specific assessment that identifies whether your hips or thoracic spine are the root causeHow golfers have resolved years of chronic back pain in 2-3 weeks by fixing the actual problemResources mentioned:Free Home Assessment: https://fairwayperformancevipcoaching.com/self-assessmentFairway Performance website: https://fairwayperformancevipcoaching.com/discoverycallpageConnect with [YOUR NAME]:Instagram: @shaun.diachkoffEmail: [email protected] questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

Golf coach Martin Chuck, founder of Tour Striker, joins me to talk about why most golfers never improve — and what to do about it.We dive into:The myths and bad advice that create “lifelong beginners”Martin’s 3 T’s practice formula that every golfer can apply right awayHow older golfers (40–80+) can make rapid progress without perfect mobilityWhy training aids like the Tour Striker Smart Ball are used by tour pros worldwideThe underrated importance of fitness, mobility, and mindset in shooting lower scoresThe lessons Martin learned coaching tour players and how they apply to everyday golfersWhether you’re trying to break 100, 90, or 80, this conversation gives you a roadmap for practicing smarter and enjoying the game more.Connect with Martin: TourStriker.com | Instagram @tourstrikergolf Connect with Shaun: fairwayperformance.com | Instagram @shaun.diachkoffHave questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

In this high-energy and value-packed episode of The Scratch Golfer’s Mindset Podcast, I sit down with Shaun Diachkoff, founder of Fairway Performance, to dive deep into how golf-specific fitness transforms not just your physical game, but your mental edge as well.Shaun’s background in the Australian military, paired with his deep experience in strength and conditioning, offers a no-BS, high-accountability approach to training that’s rooted in discipline, structure, and personalization. In today’s episode, you’ll learn:How discipline and daily structure from Shaun’s military background translate to golf and business successThe difference between mobility, flexibility, and stability—and why most golfers get it wrongWhat golf fitness really means, and how to tailor your workouts to your specific swing, body type, and performance goalsWhy strength is your ultimate insurance policy against injuryThe critical importance of power and speed training—and how to implement them safely and effectivelyHow better fitness directly fuels your mental stamina, clarity, and confidence during every roundWhether you’re recovering from injury, struggling to break 80, or want to future-proof your body for decades of better golf, this episode lays out the exact roadmap to do so. Shaun delivers clear, actionable insight on how to train smarter, not harder—and how your body is your greatest golf asset when properly trained.Get your pencils ready and start listening. P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here.More About ShaunShaun is a golf fitness coach with over 15 years of personal training experience, including nearly a decade as a gym owner and the past five years specialising in coaching golfers. He believes in assessing, not guessing, to create personalised programs tailored to each golfer’s unique needs and goals. His expertise lies in improving strength, mobility, and performance on the course, helping clients eliminate back pain, hit longer drives, and build consistent training habits. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Shaun delivers results by cutting through the fluff and focusing on what works so clients spend the least amount of time in the gym possible for the best results on course!Have questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

Paul Salter is a performance coach and certified hypnotherapist who specializes in helping golfers overcome mental blocks, build confidence, and reach their full potential. With over 16 years of coaching experience, Paul has worked with high performers across multiple fields, helping them get unstuck and unlock their potential through subconscious reprogramming. Paul hosts the Scratch Golfers Mindset Podcast and publishes a newsletter called "More Pars Than Bogies."In this episode Paul dispels common misconceptions about hypnotherapy, explains how our childhood programming affects our golf performance, and shares practical mental tools to help you play with more confidence, focus, and freedom. Whether you struggle with performance anxiety, lack confidence under pressure, or simply want to elevate your mental game, this conversation provides valuable insights for golfers of all levels.Episode Highlights[00:01] Introduction and background on Paul Salter[06:01] What hypnotherapy actually is and debunking common misconceptions[09:31] How hypnotherapy relates to golf performance and visualization[12:32] The process of working with a golf hypnotherapist[15:07] Practical mental techniques anyone can implement[18:18] Real client example: From "average guy" to "warrior" mindset[22:04] How parents can instill growth mindset in children[28:44] Why fear of success is often more limiting than fear of failure[31:20] Understanding and working through fear on the golf course[34:52] The critical difference between unconscious reactions and conscious responses[38:17] How to integrate hypnotherapy with other golf training[40:28] The importance of visualization that includes mistakes and recoveries[42:44] Resources to learn more about golf hypnotherapyYou can find Paul here:https://thegolfhypnotherapist.com/Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapistHave questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

In this episode I dive into seven critical variables that golfers need to adjust in their training programs to overcome plateaus and improve performance on the course. Drawing insights from past interviews with muscle hypertrophy expert Andy Galpin, there are many actionable tips on exercise selection, order, volume, intensity, frequency, rest, and progression. Whether you’re not seeing results from your current training or just need a better structured program, this discussion will equip you with the knowledge to make effective changes.If you want to talk about building a customised fitness program to improve your best asset on the golf course click here to book a call to chat with Shaun!  Or follow on Instagram: @shaun.diachkoffEnjoying the Podcast? If you enjoyed today's episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more golf enthusiasts like you!Have questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

In this episode of the Fairway Performance Podcast, Shaun interviews Gary Christian, a former professional golfer who made his debut on the PGA Tour at the age of 40. Gary shares his unique journey to professional golf, including his experiences on the mini tours, the challenges of transitioning to the PGA Tour, and the pressures of playing alongside golf legends. He discusses the impact of a career-ending injury and how it led him to a successful broadcasting career, where he provides insights into the game and helps others improve their performance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, smart decision-making, and a holistic approach to golf performance. To learn more about Gary click the link to his website below:https://www.garychristiangolf.com/If you want to talk about building a customised fitness program to improve your best asset on the golf course click here to book a call to chat with Shaun!  Or follow on Instagram: @shaun.diachkoffEnjoying the Podcast? If you enjoyed today's episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more golf enthusiasts like you!Have questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

In today's episode, we dive deep into the power of a well-structured warm-up, especially as many of our listeners in the Northeast U.S., UK, and Canada transition from winter to golf season. Discover how just 5-10 minutes of targeted exercises can significantly enhance your performance and reduce injury risks.Key Highlights:The Science of Warm-Ups: Uncover compelling statistics that show the undeniable benefits of dynamic warm-ups, including improved driving distance and swing mechanics.Three Critical Areas: Focus on the hips, thoracic spine, and shoulders—essential for any golfer's warm-up routine.Practical Guide: I share specific, easy-to-follow exercises that you can do right before your game to optimise performance and mobility.If you want to talk about building a customised fitness program to improve your best asset on the golf course click here to book a call to chat with Shaun!  Or follow on Instagram: @shaun.diachkoffEnjoying the Podcast? If you enjoyed today's episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more golf enthusiasts like you!Have questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!

From improving your swing speed and managing lower back pain to mastering mobility programs and training as you age, we cover a broad spectrum of topics that matter most to you, the listeners.In This Episode, You'll Discover:Techniques to Increase Swing Speed: Learn the key practices that can help you add more power to your swing.Aging and Golf: Tips on how to adapt your training regime to stay at the top of your game as you age.Managing Lower Back Pain: Insights into common causes of back pain among golfers and how to address them.Effective Mobility Programs: Explore mobility exercises specifically designed for golfers to enhance performance and reduce injury.Plus much more!Links and Resources:4 Exercise Warm Up For GolfersHow To Fix Back Pain From GolfIf you want to talk about building a customised fitness program to improve your best asset on the golf course click here to book a call to chat with Shaun!  Enjoying the Podcast? If you enjoyed today's episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more golf enthusiasts like you!Have questions, feedback or suggestions for future episode? Click here to send me a text!