Golf Fit As a low-impact sport golf has many benefits, including improved stamina, increased heart health and improved muscle tone. However, extensive play and attempting to play through minor aches and pains can, over time, cause overuse injuries. The doctors at the lauded Cleveland Clinic want to keep you on course as fit as can be, and so they’ve offered us some information and a few strategies. With just a bit of simple selfmaintenance, you’ll play better and stay in the game—for life
5 STEPS TO INCREASING PLAY TIME
#1
Be “golf fit”: Have a regular, year-round fitness routine
#2
Pre-game warm up: Warm up for 30 minutes prior
• • •
to each round.
Walk for at least 5 minutes. Perform simple stretching exercises focusing on your shoulders, back and legs. (Hold stretches for up to 10 seconds.) Hit a few golf balls on the driving range for 10-15 minutes. Start with half swings, working from your short to long clubs.
#3
The right equipment: Have your clubs fitted specifically
#4
Know your mechanics: To learn swing mechanics and
#5
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designed to prepare you for the game. Walk more often than using a golf cart.
summer 2015
to you.
the right grip, see your golf teaching professional. Ask for a video analysis.
Care for injuries: Pay attention to early warning signs of injury. Don’t play through pain. You will prolong or inhibit optimal healing.
FACT 80% of golfers spend less than 10 minutes warming up before a game