Best Exercises for Golf
Like any exercise program, the best programs are individualized based on the specific needs of the person undertaking the exercise.
In saying that, the best exercises for golf would address both flexibility and strength, and would have the following goals:
- Provide adequate flexibility of the hips to allow the rotation of the trunk over the hips in the backswing and the follow-through
- Provide adequate flexibility in the upper back to allow the torso to rotate over a fixed, stable lower body
- Provide strength in the posterior hip muscles to provide a stable lower body for the trunk to rotate over in the backswing, and to allow a firm lead side for you to hit against in the follow-through
- Provide strength of the deep abdominal and core stabilising muscles to stabilise the spine and dissipate the forces that are generated during the swing, as well as helping you maintain your posture during your swing to help you keep your swing on the correct plane.
- Provide strength in the muscles that stabilise your shoulder girdle, which includes the shoulder joint itself and the shoulder blades. This will allow you to keep your arms connected to your trunk, which allows efficient transfer of energy from your body, to your arms and ultimately to the club head.
Of course there are many more components to a comprehensive golf fitness program based on the needs of the individual; however these guidelines are an excellent start to establishing a golf fitness regime.