Becky Dengler, a distinguished instructor with nearly three decades of teaching experience, champions the value of a collaborative, multi-disciplined approach to golf instruction. As the game evolves, so too does the understanding of what drives player improvement. A PGA of America Teaching Professional at Ed Oliver Golf Club in Wilmington, Delaware, Dengler has embraced a holistic philosophy, integrating physical fitness, mobility, equipment optimization and swing mechanics.
In 2014, Dengler earned TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) Level 3 certification, arming her with the tools to assess the physical capabilities of her students and tailor instruction to their specific needs. Dengler incorporates these principles across all age groups, from initiating youth golfers in First Tee programs with tailored warmups to conducting TPI screenings for adults to identify mobility challenges.
“One of the most common limitations I see is the inability to isolate upper and lower body movement, which is key for efficient swing sequencing,” she says. “To address specific issues like this, I put together a team of professionals with specialized expertise.”
Dengler’s partnership with FIT Delaware is the perfect example. Together, they’ve designed winter fitness programs and produced educational videos that have resonated with her students. This synergy has not only grown her lesson business, but also benefited the FIT Delaware team through new customer creation.
Similarly, her work with Club Champion, one of golf’s premier custom clubfitting operations, ensures her students are fit with the right equipment to match their physical profiles and goals.
“By teaming with physical therapists, short-game specialists, clubfitters and more, I’m able to offer a comprehensive service to my clients, addressing both on-course performance and overall wellness,” Dengler adds.
This collaborative approach underscores her belief that lasting improvement in golf stems from addressing all facets of a player’s game and lifestyle. For Dengler, success isn’t just about swing mechanics; it’s about helping her students achieve their goals and maintain a healthier, more fulfilling life through golf.