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 Flexibility plays a critical role in every golfer’s quest to perform consistently. Knowing how to implement a proper stretching program can help you achieve dramatic results.
Do’s and Don’ts
Many golfers use static stretches in the pre game phase. Unfortunately, it is not conducive to enhancing performance before you play. It actually may decrease club head speed and potentially increase your risk of injury! Here is why. Muscles are like an elastic band. If you pull it slowly, it lengthens. If you release it slowly, it will return to its original shape. By holding the stretch for a prolonged period, you are actually teaching your muscles and nervous system to react “slowly”. The muscles now take an extended amount of time to stretch and shorten. This will lead to a slower swing speeds and decreased power. Static stretching tends to have the most application post game. Loosening the muscle groups that you just used (hips, back and shoulders in particular) after your round, can help you maintain your current level of flexibility and speed up recovery time. Dynamic exercises are well suited to golf warm-ups. They utilize complex movements that tend to be similar to the patterns found in a golf swing. By using controlled exercises, you can properly prepare the muscles, joints and nervous system to move “quickly” and safely.
The simple answer to this question is, both. Static and Dynamic flexibility have specific applications for each individual. If they are applied correctly, they can be integral part of golf fitness. These exercises can give you a competitive edge and help you play pain and injury free.
Program. He has had the opportunity to work in several area of fitness including sports
injury and rehabilitation, fitness studios, and one of Toronto's elite private clubs. Currently, Dan is working with a number of golfers in and around the Greater Toronto Area. His passion and dedication to the sport have enabled his clients to continually see
improvements. Dan is a C.H.E.K Certified Golf Biomechanic and Holistic Lifestyle
Consultant.
Email: dan@pinhighperformance.
Flexibility plays a critical role in every golfer’s quest to perform consistently. Knowing how to implement a proper stretching program can help you achieve dramatic results.
Types of Stretching
There are two types of stretching that most golfers are familiar with: Static and Dynamic. Static stretches are the most popular and commonly used type of stretching. A static stretch is completed in a held position for 20-60 seconds duration. One muscle or several muscle groups can be stretched using this method. A common example would be a standing hamstring stretch. In a bent over position, the individual reaches down to touch their toes. Dynamic movements tend to simulate sport specific patterns. Athletes tend to favour this type of exercise, due to its ability to utilize many muscles simultaneously. Track athletes commonly use jump tucks (jumping and bringing their knees to their chest) just before getting into the starting blocks. This allows the athlete to increase flexibility for the event.
Do’s and Don’ts
Many golfers use static stretches in the pre game phase. Unfortunately, it is not conducive to enhancing performance before you play. It actually may decrease club head speed and potentially increase your risk of injury! Here is why. Muscles are like an elastic band. If you pull it slowly, it lengthens. If you release it slowly, it will return to its original shape. By holding the stretch for a prolonged period, you are actually teaching your muscles and nervous system to react “slowly”. The muscles now take an extended amount of time to stretch and shorten. This will lead to a slower swing speeds and decreased power. Static stretching tends to have the most application post game. Loosening the muscle groups that you just used (hips, back and shoulders in particular) after your round, can help you maintain your current level of flexibility and speed up recovery time. Dynamic exercises are well suited to golf warm-ups. They utilize complex movements that tend to be similar to the patterns found in a golf swing. By using controlled exercises, you can properly prepare the muscles, joints and nervous system to move “quickly” and safely.
Which One is Better?
The simple answer to this question is, both. Static and Dynamic flexibility have specific applications for each individual. If they are applied correctly, they can be integral part of golf fitness. These exercises can give you a competitive edge and help you play pain and injury free.
 About the Author
Dan earned his diploma from George Brown College’s Fitness and Lifestyle Management
Program. He has had the opportunity to work in several area of fitness including sports
injury and rehabilitation, fitness studios, and one of Toronto's elite private clubs. Currently, Dan is working with a number of golfers in and around the Greater Toronto Area. His passion and dedication to the sport have enabled his clients to continually see improvements. Dan is a C.H.E.K Certified Golf Biomechanic and Holistic Lifestyle
Consultant.
Website: http://www.pinhighperformance.com
Email: dan@pinhighperformance.
Website: http://www.pinhighperformance.com
Dan earned his diploma from George Brown College’s Fitness and Lifestyle Management
About the Author
Which One is Better?
There are two types of stretching that most golfers are familiar with: Static and Dynamic. Static stretches are the most popular and commonly used type of stretching. A static stretch is completed in a held position for 20-60 seconds duration. One muscle or several muscle groups can be stretched using this method. A common example would be a standing hamstring stretch. In a bent over position, the individual reaches down to touch their toes. Dynamic movements tend to simulate sport specific patterns. Athletes tend to favour this type of exercise, due to its ability to utilize many muscles simultaneously. Track athletes commonly use jump tucks (jumping and bringing their knees to their chest) just before getting into the starting blocks. This allows the athlete to increase flexibility for the event.
Types of Stretching |
As a golf fitness specialist, the most frequent question I am asked is, “How do I play more consistently and lower my score?” My answer is always the same. “Do you know the Fantastic Four?” I ask. Generally, I am greeted with a perplexed look or someone thinking that I am making reference to a group of comic book superheroes. The “Fantastic Four” is comprised of Flexibility, Stability, Strength and Power. What about these four things is fantastic as it pertains to golf? By becoming proficient with each of these four simple principles, you can play better golf!
