Vince's Story

Improving His Game and Health with the Henry Ford GolFit Program

With two parents succumbing to Alzheimer’s disease, often called the long goodbye, Vince Vitale, an only child, dedicated 25 years of his life to take care of his parents. When his father passed away in 2001, he was also the main caretaker for his mom until she passed away from the disease in 2019.

“After her passing, I did something positive for myself and would walk 12 miles per day to maintain my health,” says Vince. He had tried golfing in his 30s, but said he was terrible at it. So, when his younger cousin suggested he give golf another chance by playing together at the local golf course, he took him up on the offer.

“That was August of 2020, and since then I’ve missed playing golf only about three weeks total. I play either on the golf course or with a simulator in the wintertime,” he says.

With a newfound love for playing the game, Vince decided that he wanted to take part in training to learn the game and do it right. When another golfer told him about the GolFit program at Henry Ford in 2022 to improve his performance he decided to give it a try.

GolFit offers clients access to Henry Ford athletic trainers certified by the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) and uses 3D motion analysis, exercise training and other tools to improve technique.

Dramatic results in just one year

Vince says prior to participating in the GolFit program, a really good day was when he would drive the ball 100 yards.

“In only about one year, I’ve improved my drive to 180 to 200 yards,” says Vince.

But the benefits of the program have extended far more than improving his game.

“I participate in the program once per week and plan to continue to participate long term due to all of the benefits I’ve received, Vince says. “Nick Parkinson has provided excellent tips that include exercises to focus on when I go to the gym that help with my balance and overall health.”

Nick Parkinson, M.Ed., AT, ATC, TSAC-F, supervisor of Athletic Training and Sports Performance at the Henry Ford Center for Athletic Medicine (CAM), says Vince’s hard work and dedication have truly made a difference on and off the golf course.

“When Vince started with us, he had limitations with mobility and power which caused issues on the course,” Nick says. “After following through on his program, he has improved how he moves, and this has translated to more consistent play on the course. His dedication and consistency have made him a good example of what can be accomplished with this program.”

Since participating in the GolFit program, Vince says some of his health improvements include no longer having major back pain issues and resolving golfer’s elbow which had caused pain in his forearm.

“I no longer have to wear a brace on my forearm and don’t really need to see my chiropractor anymore for back pain.”

The program details

The Individual Assessment Program offers a personalized approach designed specifically for each client to improve limitations and weaknesses found during individual sessions.

“Our team uses TPI and movement evaluation skills combined with 2D/3D SIMI motion analysis to determine weaknesses in the client’s body mechanics and swing,” says Nick. “These tools go a long way to not only improve golf performance, but physical health as well.”

Improved vitality for Vince

Combining health and nutrition tips from Nick that Vince has used at home, in the gym, and during his continued visits to CAM has led to some surprising results.

“When my cousin who turned 43 commented on how good I look, I replied that I look and feel his age,” 65-year-old Vince said. “I’ve come to discover the Fountain of Youth is a four-letter word. That word is MOVE. It will keep you healthy and make you feel younger than your years.”

For more information about the GolFit program at Henry Ford Health, visit henryford.com/sportsperformance.