Top Exercise Tips For Preventing Golf Injuries

A few weeks ago Simon wrote a very informative Golf related article called - Golf Flexibility, The Golf Swing & Common Injuries

If you are a golfer and haven't read this article I recommend you do, it attracted good interest and praise over on our Twitter profile @mmphysiotherapy . On the back of this article I've put together some top tips for helping you avoid those niggly golfing injuries. 

Here we go...

• Always warm up and stretch before a golf game or driving range practice
• Stretch your entire body including your shoulders, arms, legs and hip flex
• Avoid low back pain by ensuring you stretch your hamstrings sufficiently
• Consider the modern swing and your degree of hip and trunk rotation and work on increasing the flexibility and strength of your trunk flexibility
• The hips and legs absorb forces from the upper body through the swing which can help reduce injury risk. Don't forget to factor leg strengthening exercises into your training plan, such as lunges and squats. Proper technique for these movements is crucial and I recommend booking a session with a good personal trainer to get you doing them right from the start
• It doesn't need explaining why your core muscles are fundamental to the golf game and your overall body stability. A routine such as Pilates is excellent for developing a balanced core and preventing injuries
• Although golf is not an impact sport or high-intensity game 18 holes will still have you walking many miles. Your good fitness level will ensure you don't suffer fatigue in the final stages of the game which may otherwise cause your technique to falter and increase your injury risk. Factor in some regular walking or light jogging into your weekly routine
• Know your body. We are all created somewhat differently when it comes to our specific body mechanics. If you find yourself constantly suffering little niggling aches and pains or more serious injuries from your golf game then it would be a sensible idea to ask your Physio to provide you with a physical examination, including a lower limb gait assessment. Identifying any structural or muscle imbalances is the first step for implementing corrective measures which would potentially increase the enjoyment and safety of your golf game

Hope these made sense and inspire you to pick up on any areas you may be slack on in your golf training preparations. 

By Robin.