Swinging a golf club after months of inactivity can often produce a myriad of results, most of which are not pleasurable. Fortunately, there are multiple tools at your disposal to lessen the effects of stepping back in to the world of golf.
One of the major components of many successful golf exercise programs is Yoga. During winter months, golfers can still work on their game so they can bring a smooth swing to the course once the snow melts.
Even during the golf season, if you’re looking to build power and flexibility in your golf swing, sign up for a yoga class. Yoga will help you maintain flexibility in your core and shoulders, so you can make a full backswing and follow the proper movement on your downswing. Yoga will also help you build strength in the proper areas of your body to gain the extra yardage we all seek.
“A few simple exercises and activities over the winter can really prepare you for the next golf season and shorten the time needed to find your game,” says Barry Wallis, Callaway Golf Canada on-staff professional.
According to Wallis, most of the force and momentum in a swing is generated from the lower body and to develop a strong lower body it is important to use squats and lunges. Tricep dips will also build strength in the triceps and shoulders. “Squeezing a tennis ball will build strength in your forearms and wrists, you can also go to the garage and take your club back to the top of your backswing and hold it for 30 seconds – make sure you feel a slight stretch across your back.” Wallis adds.
Wallis also recommends practicing your golf swing in front of a mirror, watching for proper form, and putting on the carpet to keep the tempo of your stroke and the feel of bringing the putter face back on line (not worrying about the speed of the ball).
According to Trish Stratus of Stratusphere Yoga, who also happens to be a golf student of Wallis, “the physical benefits of yoga will definitely aid your golf game, but perhaps an even greater advantage will be the mental benefits.” Meditation techniques used during a yoga practice provide golfers with the tools to help develop the mental discipline that golf demands.
Being aware of your breath helps to quiet the mind and cultivates focus. As your mind calms down, your breathing settles down, and your body relaxes which puts the body’s natural state into one of relaxed alertness – an ideal state in which to approach a game of golf. Next time you step up to the tee, try to take a few moments to be still and just breathe.
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