Golf Tip of the Day - How to Stretch

As many golfers know, improved flexibility can help to improve your golf swing by allowing you to have a bigger shoulder turn, create a wider swing arc, and maintain posture throughout the swing. However, much of what I read on the golf forums on how to stretch is not healthy.

If you are seeking to increase your overall flexibility, it is NOT necessary to stretch hard every day. In fact, that would do more harm than good. It is, however, necessary to do some light stretching before your round of golf or practice session, and helpful to do some light stretching afterward.

When you stretch for increased flexibility, keep these tips in mind....

1. You only need to stretch for increased flexibility 2 or 3 times per week.

2. With each stretch, ease into the stretch, and never bounce when you are in the stretch. That is a good way to cause injury.

3. Hold your position for 30 to 45 seconds, and be sure to breathe. Get into your initial position where you feel discomfort, hold it for 15 seconds, then try to increase the stretch slightly and hold for another 15 to 30 seconds.

4. Always remember to breathe and try to keep the rest of your body as relaxed as possible.

5. When you are finished with the stretch, come out of the position very slowly.

6. Try to hit the major muscle groups when you stretch. Of utmost importance to golfers are the hamstrings, glutes, back, lats, shoulders and neck.

7. Give yourself 30 to 45 minutes to do your stretching routine and take your time!

Keep these tips in mind and you should start to see results after just a couple weeks. If you have any very tight areas, there may be an injury, so be sure to get checked out. Never, ever stretch beyond your limits...if you have pain, back off!

Scott Cole
www.howtogolfyourbest.com