Golf Related Stretching: Sore Back Hampering Your Game?

Sep 17, 2010

Get the Swing back in your Game

We are all looking for that magic move or concentration trick that will help bring our score down.
The same can be said for lingering lower back pain that may come from too many hours spent sitting at a
desk or computer or just on the couch watching the U.S. Open and wondering HOW do those guys do it?
You can improve golf performance AND lessen your lower back pain at the same time with one simple word...
Stretching.

Studies show that having a regular stretch routine can help to alleviate muscle soreness, while improving
ones flexability has been shown to help improve athletic performance especially in sports that require coordination
and balance. These two simple stretches will help to minimize pain while improving the range of motion on your backswing as well as your follow through.

The seated Spinal Twist stretch.

Start by sitting vertical on the floor with both legs straight out on the floor in front of your torso.
Place your left foot the right side of the right knee. Place your right elbow on the left side of the knee which is already bent.
Take your left hand and place it behind your hips on the floor and begin to push the left knee with the right elbow
while turning your shoulders to the left(there is a reason this is also called The Pretzel Stretch).
Then repeat on the other side. Hold each stretch for thirty seconds,from this stretch you can go right into:

The seated Hamstring and Calve stretch.

While seated with your torso still vertical place the bottom of your right foot against the inside of your outstreatched
left thigh.
Make sure the outside of your right knee is laying flat against the floor.
Slowly lean forward and grab the shin, ankle or toes (depending on your current flexability)of your left leg.
Increase the stretch regularly until you are able to reach your toes. Make sure the toes of the outstretched leg are pointing upwards. Hold the stretch for thirty seconds and repeat on the other side.

Ideally you should do these stretches 2-3 times per week and before you hit the course.