It is a sad time of year for many people, the end of golf season. If you're anything like me, you can't help but ask, "What happened this year?" One great round followed by one horrible round followed by a mediocre round. Maybe you invested a lot of money this year in lessons or a new set of clubs. Did it make a difference? Are you using those clubs to their full capacity? It may be time to spend some time and money on your most valuable asset, your body.
Many people often spend hours at the driving range mastering their swing. But how many people work on the strength and power behind their swing? How many people know what muscles are used during golfing?
During a golf swing, the upper body is where the action takes place but the strength and force of your drive is actually derived from your hips, glutes (butt), upper legs and abdomen. Lack of strength in these areas is often the limiting factor to improving your drive distance, accuracy and consistency.
Strength training, cardiovascular training and flexibility improvements can significantly improve your golf game by providing you greater control and consistency, better mind/body co-ordination and greater stamina to complete all 18 holes. Also, combined, improvements to your body can help prevent overuse injuries that can occur during repetitive movement activities, such as golf.
During this year's off season, hit the gym to improve your game for next season. To improve your distance and accuracy, try strength training activities that focus on your torso (core) and upper legs. You will want to keep your repetitions high, around 15, and use a moderate weight. When doing cardiovascular exercise remember that you aren't training for hockey or basketball, which use fast, explosive movements. You will want to train at a lower intensity for a longer period of time. You want to be able to walk the entire 18 holes and still have enough stamina to drive the ball as far on the last hole as you did on the first.
Flexibility training is extremely important as well. Many golfers have experienced shoulder injuries or lower back problems. The golf swing typically packs a lot of punch and the range of motion your body travels through is extensive. A typical stretching routine for a golfer might consist of a few bends and some twisting before the first shot. A good, daily stretching routine can increase your range of motion significantly improving your shots and reduce your risk of injury.
If you have been wondering how to improve your golf game, start with improving your strength and power. Try it this off season, you'll be amazed at the results by next spring. The worst case scenario is that you might lose a few pounds, so it's a win-win situation.
Say it! Mean it! Do it!
