How Rory’s prepped for Augusta

When you’re one of the world’s best golfers, a hotel room becomes a putting green. A picnic table transforms into the perfect target for pitching. A mirror in the bedroom becomes a swing plane aid…

“If you don’t love the work you have to put in to become the best, then you may want to consider a different line of work or sport of choice,” said Rory McIlroy, who is striving to complete the career grand slam at Augusta National this week.

“I think the common denominator among every great athlete, no matter the sport, is they love the chase to improve. They dedicate themselves more and that’s the main reason they’re better.”

Leading up to the first major championship of the season, McIlroy’s long-term strategy has comprised nutrition, training and bettering his game. Then in mid-March, his training regimen moved into a strength and power phase.

In addition to maintaining leg, core and shoulder strength, for the past two weeks he has incorporated more dynamic exercises, such as plyometric jumps and controlled landings.

For McIlroy, there’s also an art to preparing for the first major championship’s famous golf course. One way is to practice on similarly difficult courses, a method Ben Hogan advocated.

According to swing coach Michael Bannon, McIlroy has been focused on executing precise iron shots to the right side of the hole – a requirement that next week’s major championship demands. He’s also been working on greens that are quick, complex and undulated.

In anticipation, McIlroy works with Bannon to replicate each of the shots required to win the championship, like drawing the ball off the tee, a shot required on many holes. Around the greens, it’s about hitting shots from tight lies; getting the ball on the right side of the hole. When it comes to putting, he’ll work on speed with his left hand low.

All of McIlroy’s hard work and struggle leading to the major moment brings a certain kind of peace — the knowledge that he is prepared.

A snapshot of McIlroy’s daily schedule the two weeks leading into the first major of the year:

5.30am Wake up — light breakfast

6.30am            Hit the gym; running and mobility training/stability exercises

7.30am            Eat larger breakfast with recovery drink

9am     Course/Practice

Noon   Lunch 

1.30pm            Course/Practice

4pm     Mid-afternoon snack

4.45pm            Main workout

6.30pm            Dinner

10pm   Bed