Golf Tips: How To Get In Shape For Golf

To most people who do not Golf, the notion does not inspire thoughts of rigid training. You hit the ball, you chase the ball, you drink some beer and lie about your score. However, to the serious duffer, hours are spent refining skills, yet even to them the topic of physical fitness and Golf rarely get mention in the same conversation. If the average Golfer spent 25% of the time they spend practicing and choosing equipment on getting in shape, it would most certainly result in lower scores on the links. Somehow, most Golfers are so enamored with distance or the perfect swing that their improvement through physical fitness gets lost.

How to get in shape for Golf starts with the legs, as Golf requires a good bit of walking and standing. Start by walking a mile a day, and then escalate the difficulty to either a longer distance or a hilly terrain. Incorporate some exercises to stretch the leg muscles, calf muscles, and improve joint flexibility. Without a good base, the most perfect golf swing in the World has no efficiency in driving or directing the ball.

A common complaint with Golfers is back or hip pain. This is not due to improper form, but the individual players being out of shape. Stomach fat puts a strain on back muscles and reduces flexibility resulting in a greater chance of strained back muscles. This can become a lingering problem and can last months, reducing the frequency of playing and raising scores. Make certain to implement some abdominal exercises like sit ups and side twists for the oblique muscles, as this will reduce the odds of a back injury significantly.

Strong shoulders, forearms and hands are a must for a good Golfer. The ability to control the club cannot be overestimated in importance. A light, and I stress light, weight lifting routine can give the added strength necessary to improve your game. Too much weight lifting can reduce your overall flexibility, and really cause problems with your swing. It is very importance to incorporate some aerobic exercise into your routine as well. This will increase your stamina and flexibility.

In all, the total time required to get in shape for Golf should not take more than 30 to 40 minutes a day several times a week. The most important aspect being the improvement of flexibility. By improving your range of motion and joint dexterity, you'll not only improve your game but reduce the chance of injury.While it may seem like a chore in January, you will definitely reap the benefits in May.