Golf Fitness
The expression golf fitness used to be an oxymoron. Golf was an activity where you didn't need to be in shape to play. However, it is clear that to play your best you should have some type of physical conditioning.
Just look at today's top players vs. those of 20 or even 10 years ago. Clearly, getting fit for golf is a part of their regimen. Most likely the average golfer is not going to put himself through the extensive exercises that touring professionals go through. After all the pros are striving to make a living and must strive to be at their absolute best every week.
However, there is one aspect of conditioning that every golfer should consider. That is stretching. Stretching will not only help you play some of your best golf, it will also let you play golf into your later years. Stretching will also help you stay injury free. Golfers are not immune to injuries, particularly back problems and certain types of tendinitis. These can all be prevented with a good stretching routine.
At its simplest, stretching is nothing more that straightening the structure of your limbs or body to their fullest length. Since stretching does not require great physical exertion it can be done well by everyone regardless of your age or body type.
However age and body type may initially limit the extent of your stretching. As you grow older your muscles tighten and your range of motion becomes more limited.
So if you want to get in shape for golf, stretching regularly is very important. Don't just wait until you get to the first tee and try to get loose.
Ideally, you should do simple stretches every day and it won't take much time. . Experts agree that 10 minutes is an ideal length of time for stretching if you are getting ready for an activity like golf. Any more than this and you risk wearing out your elasticity before your round.
Everyone can improve through stretching. When you stretch on a regular basis your range of motion will improve as the length of your muscles and tendons increase.
So the next time you take a lesson and the pro tells you to turn your hips 45 degrees and your shoulders 90 degrees you won't just have to laugh at him. You'll be on your way to getting into those classic golf positions