If you are a fair weather golfer and have a hard time getting out to play in the
winter months, consider an off-season stretch and light weight-lifting class.
Loss of flexibility can have a huge impact on your golf swing.
The execution of a golf swing requires certain levels of flexibility, balance,
and strength. A golf fitness program can help develop these necessary
attributes and maintain them despite the weather’s impact on your game. (You should contact your physician before beginning any
type of exercise program.)
Lower back, hamstring and shoulder exercises are key for maintaining
flexibility. Lower back tightness can restrict a proper turn in the backswing
and follow-through. Hamstring tightness can cause your pelvis to "tuck" under
the spine during the golf swing. A low range of motion in the shoulders can
reduce a full extension of the arms and club causing the golfer to only hit the
top of the ball.
There are many good resources to get you started. If you already belong to a
gym, consult a trainer about stretches and exercises to increase flexibility
for golf. Online information includes websites with instructions and
demonstrations – just type “golf flexibility and exercises” into the search engine. Another item to incorporate is swinging a weighted club
like a Momentus or Power Hitter. These extra-heavy clubs can help strengthen
and loosen up muscles used in the golf swing. The moral to the story: stay
active even when you can't get out to play this winter.
Kelly Kluska Millender, a PGA Golf Professional, grew up in Hot Springs Village
where her father, Roger Kluska, was Director of Golf for 18 years. Kelly played
collegiate golf and graduated from the University of Georgia. She works at Golf
Alley and loves to teach and grow the game of golf. For more information, call
Kelly at 501-321-1113.
