The Importance of Stretching and Golf
Over the past decade, flexibility has become known as one of the key components to helping the golfer become stronger. In martial arts, flexibility is crucial to being able to perform great kicks. In the beginning, if you have not done any stretching in a while, this may be a challenge for you. Give yourself lots of time and be patient with yourself. I suggest that you do some type of stretching 5 to 10 minutes every day in the beginning to get yourself more flexible. It could be as simple as putting your feet up (not too high) on your desk at work or the chair at work. Over time and when you are consistent with your stretching, you will become more flexible.
Ryan at Pebble Beach
So how will stretching actually help you? First, it will allow you to kick higher. The higher you can kick, the more you are using your hip flexors and gluts. Also, the more flexible you are, the harder you will be able to kick because your hip flexors will be like a rubber band and you will be able to explode your kicks, exploding through the golf ball like never before. The hip flexors and gluts are the same muscles used on the downswing when you swing the club and are also the same muscles used to generate a kick. Ultimately, stronger and more flexible hip flexors and gluts are going to help your golf game be more accurate and your swing take the ball farther.
Stretching also has many other side benefits. It helps with stress reduction, increased circulation, and even increased energy levels! It can also help your range of motion as you age, when everyday activities can become harder because your muscles aren’t as elastic as they used to be. You may find yourself surprised to enjoy stretching after a few weeks of doing it consistently and find it to be a vital part of your daily routine.
The best time to stretch is after your warm-up, because your body is less stiff after you have warmed up and you will be more flexible. The other thing that is great about stretching after your warm up is that you decrease the chance of injury. Bruce Lee actually hurt his back because he decided to pick up a 135-pound barbell and he had not done any type of warm-up. Bruce would have had no problem with that kind of weight if he had properly warmed up, so take your time with your warm-up so you can truly benefit in your stretching.
I have a door gym and incorporate stntechirg into my strength training, and I have a little yoga routine, as well. Definitely work on your flexibility now – it doesn\’t get easier with age! Although you\’re a LONG way from having to worry about it, flexibility is especially important in the second half. Just start slow and work on it daily and you\’ll be touching the floor in no time:)