The Stretch That Can Take Your Game to New Heights
As a devoted golfer at Eagle Ridge, I know the thrill of a perfectly executed shot. But what if I told you there’s one simple thing you can do to up your game even more? It might sound too good to be true, but improving your flexibility could be the secret weapon you’ve been missing.
Now, I get it – flexibility isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think about golf. We’re usually focused on building strength, honing our swing, and fine-tuning our technique. But hear me out. Increased flexibility doesn’t just make you feel better, it can actually transform your game in some pretty amazing ways.
Think about it – a stiff, inflexible body is going to have a harder time rotating through the swing, generating power, and maintaining proper form. But when you work on your flexibility, you open up your range of motion and give your body the freedom to move the way it was designed to. And that translates to longer drives, better shots, and lower scores. [1]
I learned this lesson the hard way. For years, I was so laser-focused on my swing that I neglected my flexibility. My back would seize up, my hips would feel tight, and I could barely touch my toes. It started affecting my game in a big way – my drives were getting shorter, my posture was suffering, and I was constantly battling nagging aches and pains.
The Flexibility Breakthrough
That’s when I decided it was time to make a change. I started incorporating regular flexibility training into my routine, and let me tell you, the results were nothing short of game-changing. Within just a few weeks, I could feel the difference – my swing felt smoother, my shots were flying straighter and farther, and I was moving around the course with newfound ease and comfort.
And the benefits didn’t stop there. As I continued to work on my flexibility, I noticed other improvements too. My endurance skyrocketed, allowing me to play 18 holes without feeling wiped out. My risk of injury went down, so I could practice and play more without worrying about pulling a muscle. And perhaps most importantly, the aches and pains that had been plaguing me for years started to melt away. [2]
The best part? Improving your flexibility doesn’t have to be a huge time commitment. Just a few simple stretches and mobility exercises a couple times a week can make a world of difference. And trust me, your golf game will thank you for it.
The Flexibility Essentials
So, what does an effective flexibility routine look like? Here are the key elements I’ve incorporated into my own practice:
Foam Rolling
Research has shown that using a foam roller can provide similar flexibility gains to traditional stretching. [1] It’s a great way to target those tight spots, improve circulation, and prep your muscles for mobility work. I like to spend a few minutes rolling out my quads, hamstrings, and back before a round.
Dynamic Stretching
Instead of just holding a stretch, dynamic stretching involves moving your joints through their full range of motion. This helps wake up your body and get it ready for action. I always start my pre-round routine with some leg swings, arm circles, and torso twists. [1]
Static Stretching
Once my muscles are warm, I move into some good old-fashioned static stretching. I focus on the major muscle groups – hips, hamstrings, shoulders, and back. Holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds, 2-4 times, really allows me to deepen into it. [1]
Strength Training
Believe it or not, building strength can actually improve your flexibility and mobility. I make sure to incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, and rows into my routine to support joint health and range of motion. [3]
The key is to experiment and find the right blend of flexibility work that feels good for your body. And don’t forget to listen to those aches and pains – the areas that feel the tightest are often the ones that need the most attention.
Flexibility for Life (and Golf)
Improving your flexibility isn’t just about golf, either. It’s about feeling good in your body, moving with ease, and enjoying an active lifestyle for years to come. [4] I’ve noticed that my improved flexibility has seeped into every aspect of my life – from chasing after the grandkids to tackling household chores with less strain.
And let’s be real, as we get older, flexibility becomes even more crucial. Those aches and pains can really start to add up, making simple tasks a real challenge. But by staying on top of my flexibility routine, I’ve been able to maintain my mobility and independence, which is truly priceless.
So if you’re ready to take your golf game to the next level, don’t overlook the power of flexibility. Invest just a few minutes a day, and I promise you’ll start seeing (and feeling) the results. Your body, and your scorecard, will thank you.
References
[1] Polly de Mille, “How to Increase Flexibility,” HSS, accessed January 1, 2023, https://www.hss.edu/article_how-to-increase-flexibility.asp.
[2] Jennipher Walters, “How to Improve Flexibility,” Forbes, accessed January 1, 2023, https://www.forbes.com/health/fitness/how-to-improve-flexibility/.
[3] Sabrena Jo, PhD, “How to Become More Flexible (Because Yes, It’s Important),” Everyday Health, accessed January 1, 2023, https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/how-become-more-flexible-because-yes-its-important/.
[4] “Four Types of Exercise Can Improve Your Health and Physical Ability,” National Institute on Aging, accessed January 1, 2023, https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-and-physical-activity/four-types-exercise-can-improve-your-health-and-physical.
[5] Bisconti AV, Cè E, Longo S, et al. “Evidence for Improved Systemic and Local Vascular Function After Long-Term Passive Static Stretching Training of the Musculoskeletal System.” The Journal of Physiology. 2020;598(17):3645-3666.
