How to Prevent Injury: When Your Score is Not the Most Painful Part of Your Golf Game
Golf is supposed to be a pleasant outing, a fun way to keep fit, and an interesting hobby. What it is not supposed to be, however, is painful. Taking the extra time to warm up and stretch properly before playing, keeping mindful of body position during the game and then stretching and cooling off afterward are all just as important as your swing. Make sure that you understand the mechanics of the game of golf itself and what body parts are involved for your swing and your follow through so that you will know how to strengthen those muscles and protect yourself.
Of course you know that your upper body is involved, especially during your swing and follow through. There are many golf specific workouts available that will not only employ strength training, (weights) but stretches and yoga poses that are meant to give the best range of motion, stability and flexibility, no matter what level your golf game currently is. Be sure that you get your doctor’s permission and recommendation before beginning any new fitness routines, and then follow the guidelines for frequency and intensities.
Your core is just as important as your upper body for your golf game, perhaps even more so in the early days of playing. A strong, well-conditioned core will aid in balance as well as protect your lower back during your windup, swing and release. If you have ever tweaked your back during a twist, you will know right away how important a strong core is. Abdominal exercise routines do not have to be hour-long affairs, but are an important part of your golf preparation.
And finally, you know how important your lower body is to a good golf game. You are standing on your legs for each swing, and walking frequently, even if you use a golf-cart. (If you are golfing for fitness, the golf cart should remain at the clubhouse!) Strong thigh muscles will allow for stability in your stance and will allow you more power for your swings and long drives. Think of your legs as the starting point of your swing, and imagine yourself drawing power up from your quadriceps, through your core and up into your arms and shoulders, traveling into the forearm and out through the shaft of your club. Proper fitness will give you more strength, a better game and a more enjoyable outing.
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