Zach Johnson on life on the road (Sponsor Content)

Courtesy of Country Inns & Suites (Sponsor Content)

Zach Johnson talks about life on the road in the third of six Inside Looks with PGA.com.

Q: For elite-level players like you, late summer and into the fall means a lot of big-time tournaments packed in to a short period of time. How hard is it to keep your game and mind sharp over the course of that stretch?

A: The schedule certainly does not let up with one important event after another. I work hard in the gym in hopes that I can maintain my fitness and close out the year strong. To stay sharp and ready I really focus on staying true to my routines. I am pretty regimented in my routines and know that if I follow them I will stay on a pretty good path. That being said, it is hard to maintain good focus throughout the year and typically there is some ebb and flow to performance.

Part 1: Zach Johnson on his most memorable shots | Part 2: The PGA Championship

Q: Is your family able to travel with you often?

A: My family does travel with me a lot which is a blessing. I truly cherish this because as they get older and are in school full time we won't have this luxury as much. We try to keep our family life pretty much the same on the road as much as we can.

Q: What do you do for fun on the road (movies? beach? etc.)?

A: Anything not related to golf on the road has to do with my wife and kids. When I am done working I just like to spend time with Kim and the kids doing just about anything.

Q: What are three non-golf related items that you always travel with?

A: Bible, kids toys and a laptop to keep up with Hawkeye football recruiting and updates.

Q: When the PGA Tour first introduced its Playoffs several years ago, many wondered how that would translate in golf. What we've learned is it's incredibly exciting from a fan's perspective. What's it like from a player's perspective?

A: I'd say the same... very exciting. Last year I came into the Tour Championship as one of four players that controlled their fate, meaning the potential to win the entire FedExCup. That was pretty exciting. I am again in good shape and hope to work my way back into that position this year. I think having playoffs that work toward an exciting finish is a great idea that's been well-received by everyone involved.

Q: For amateur players out there, what would you say is the most important thing they can do to lower their handicap?

A: That's easy, stop hitting driver after driver on the range and go practice everything inside 100 yards. I'd say at least 80 percent of your practice time should be spent inside 100 yards, hitting wedges, pitches, chips and working on your putting. Guaranteed to lower your handicap.

Q: Food-wise, is there any particular week/tournament on the PGA Tour schedule you most look forward to each year?

A: Love food and most tournaments have great food. That being said, I am kind of a Chipotle addict! 

---

Country Inns & Suites is proud to sponsor PGA Tour Pro Zach Johnson. A dedicated Masters Champion, community leader and family man, Zach shares our genuine commitment to always go above and beyond – on and off the course. At Country Inns & Suites that means a stay delivered with touches of home, such as complimentary hot breakfast, free high-speed internet, a great night's rest and genuine hospitality.

Book your next stay with Country today and see why Zach Johnson considers us the next best thing to home when he is on the road. www.countryinns.com.