Beneficial Stretches for Golfers

Beneficial Stretches for Golfers is a short golf blog post that looks at a few simple stretches that you can do on and off the golf course. Most golfers don’t even know that they should go through a series of stretches before they get out onto the golf course. This will help decrease the number of times that you will hear this old chestnut, “It took a few holes to get going, but then it was OK” Most golfers just like to go out onto the golf course and then wonder why their game wasn’t amazing. Following some of these simple stretches will help you limber up before hitting the Links. All of the following stretches should be held for at least 10 seconds before they will take effect. Also, whilst doing the following stretches, don’t forget to breathe as normally as possible. Controlling your breathing whilst doing exercise is the most important part. Your body needs more oxygen than normal, so don’t hold your breath. My Favourite Pre-Golf Stretches Triceps Stretch This is a classic and simple stretch that will help you loosen up the upper arms. Raise your elbow up to the side of your head and touch the back of your shoulder with your fingers. With the other hand, gently push your elbow further back until you feel a stretch. Hold that stretch for 10 seconds, then relax. Do the same on the opposite side. Repeat this on a regular basis to help stretch out your Triceps. Forearms, Wrists & Fingers Stretch Another simple stretch that can be done anywhere without any equipment. Hold out a straight arm with your forearms facing upwards. Point your fingers to the ground. With your other hand, Straighten the pointing fingers and gently pull them back towards you to feel a stretch on your forearms and fingers. Hold that stretch for 10 seconds and then relax. Do the same on the opposite side. Repeat this on a regular basis to help stretch out your Forearms, Wrists & Fingers. Shoulders and Fingers Stretch Everybody knows this stretch although it is hardly performed by anyone. Clasp your fingers together and straighten both arms towards the floor. Then lift them slowly upwards above your head, feeling the stretch at your fingers and shoulders. Hold the stretch for 10 seconds and relax. Repeat the stretch as often as you like. Shoulder Stretch This is probably the most commonly seen stretch in the car park, on the range, or on the first tee. Hold your arm out in front of you at shoulder height. With your other hand, place the back of the hand at the back of the other elbow and pull it across your chest. This will create a stretch to the rear of the shoulder. (You will feel the point where your arm squashes your chest more than the stretch, but believe me, it will be there. Hold the stretch again for 10 seconds, then relax. Most golfers will do this stretch for 2-3 seconds thinking that is enough. Repeat the stretch on the other side. Chest Stretches This one is great but is hardly seen. Maybe because of the lack of walls on a golf course! Stand close to a wall and place the palm of your hand, forearm and elbow flat against the wall. Keep your arm in the same position and slowly turn your chest away from the wall. You will create a great stretch across your chest. Hold the stretch for 10 seconds before relaxing. Repeat the stretch on the other side. These are all simple stretches that everyone can do to help stay loose. They really do help develope your golf swing. If you have any questions, doubts or queries, then please do not hesitate to ask me or any other PGA Professional. What are your thoughts about Beneficial Stretches for Golfers? Have I missed out your favourite stretch, then tell me about it. Please leave a comment by filling out a Contact Form. To read more of my golf blog posts, click here.