Gary Player: Proving fitness and golf go hand in hand

Golf professional Gary Player's schedule last week included traveling from West Palm Beach, Florida, to Hawaii back to West Palm then to Philly, on to L.A., then to Bangkok (for only five hours), to Beijing, then to London, Morocco, Casablanca, Germany, and finally back to West Palm Beach.

And, in case you didn't know, the man is 72 years old.

Early on in his career, Player devoted himself to fitness (which is what he credits with the fact that he's able to manage such a schedule). The golf world called him crazy for lifting weights and adhering to a strict exercise routine, and many believed he wouldn't last on the pro tour. Not only has he lasted, but he continues to be strong and healthy. Plus, he's set a fitness standard for guys like Tiger Woods, who Player ran into at the gym in Dubai.

Player is adamant that people, including those joining him on the PGA tour, realize that fitness isn't just important for your golf game or so you look better -- it's necessary for a long, healthy life. And he's some of the best proof of that I've seen.