The mild weather we’ve been having lately is enough to bring ‘visions of golf clubs’ dancing in one’s head. When we have a sunny day, we can’t wait to get out on the course and play a round. The problem is, if you’re like me and haven’t played for a while, you could injure yourself before the season begins.
For most sports, including golf, easing back into playing is a healthier approach than expecting to pick up where you left off a few months ago. Some trips to the driving range might get your swing back sooner and with less stress on the body. Remember, while golf isn’t a contact sport, it still puts significant demands on your body, which can lead to injuries.
While at the range, get things started right by proper posture and staying smooth. Proper posture is standing with feet shoulder width apart, distributing your weight equally on both feet. Hinging at the hip is very important, instead of hunching over the ball which can contribute to neck and back strain.
When coming back from a hiatus, start by relaxing and taking some nice easy swings at the ball. This reminds the body gently what it feels like to swing a club. As with any sport, less is more. Relaxing and allowing the body to find it’s way rather than muscling the swing, will get the ball further down the fairway.
Even though Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring, I think we still have a few more weeks of winter left. Not to worry. We can still be working on our game. Two golf stretches that can help you prevent back pain and increase your backswing range of motion for longer drives are:
The lying leg cross-over. Lie on your back with legs extended. Raise one leg and bend it 90 degrees at the hip and knee. Cross this leg over the extended one while the opposite shoulder stays on the ground. Go until you feel a slight pull, no pain, in the butt and lower back. Hold for 15 seconds and repeat once more, then switch sides.
The backswing stretch. Extend the left arm (for right handers) out in front of you. Take the right hand and place it under your left wrist. Pull with your right hand against the left wrist and make as big a turn on backswing as you can. Hold for 15 seconds, repeat once more, then change sides. The second side is for the follow through.
Do these two stretches daily and you’ll start seeing improvement in your game, including more yards off the tee.
These are only two of the exercises we will be doing in the PILATES FOR GOLF WORKSHOP, beginning March 11 and 9:00 AM in the Naverson room at the library. It will continue for 5 consecutive Fridays.
I hope to see you there.
Mary Ann Carlson is Owner of The Pilates Studio – 541-890-7703