Kim Hyo-joo Hits the Gym Post-Fortinet Founders Victory
Following her Fortinet Founders Cup win, Kim Hyo-joo moved straight to a training routine. She visited the gym the day after lifting the trophy.
Intensive gym work and weight training
Kim committed to heavy weight training to increase power and distance. She completed an intense three-week training block in Hawaii ahead of the season.
Her gym work includes chin-ups and dumbbell sessions. She began those routines during the COVID-19 pandemic and has kept them up.
Strength gains and measurable results
Kim has increased the weight she now uses in the gym. She reports moving from a women’s 100 standard to a men’s 105 level.
Chin-ups are a core exercise. She can perform up to three consecutively and trains more than an hour daily on weights.
On-course impact and tactical changes
The added muscle has translated into more yardage off the tee. Her average driving distance this year rose by nearly 20 yards.
Kim said she is shifting from a finesse-only game toward greater length. The LPGA’s tougher courses and firmer greens make distance more important.
- Age: 31
- Turned professional: 2012
- Recent title: Fortinet Founders Cup
- World ranking after win: No. 4
- Three weeks of training in Hawaii
- Driving distance increase: about 20 yards
Upcoming defence and long-term aims
She arrives in Phoenix to defend her title at the Ford Championship. The tournament begins on the 27th at Wallwind Golf Club Cattail Course.
Kim told Filmogaz.com that putting will decide her scorecard. She believes precise putting will be crucial over the four days.
Ambitions beyond this season
Kim wants to sustain a long LPGA career and reach world No. 1. She also has her sights set on Olympic gold at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
She previously competed at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics. Her recent Fortinet Founders victory lifted her to a season-high world ranking.
