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Important Fitness and Practice Tips for Those New to Golf

Golf is a game for people of all ages, and can be enjoyed for a lifetime. There are no age limits and the skill can be learned. Millions of Americans hit the greens every year, both competitively and recreationally.

Although the limitations of golf are few, physical fitness can affect your golf game. If you’re thinking about picking up golf as a new hobby or sport, there are a few things you should know first. Cooper Fitness Center Professional Fitness Trainer and Golf Fitness Specialist, David H. Williams explains.

1. Get a physical assessment. Mobility, particularly hip mobility and shoulder mobility are the primary physical limitations a golfer might encounter. Lack of mobility can affect swing and increase risk of injury. Golfers at all levels should get regular golf fitness assessments to track mobility, strength, stability and flexibility. At Cooper Fitness Center, golfers can get a golf fitness assessment based on the Titleist Performance Institute standards. This assessment will look at an overall picture of the individual from a fitness standpoint and is recommended prior to beginning golf and periodically (approximately every 12 weeks) for those who play golf regularly.

2. Play other sports, too. Many sports utilize similar movements and mechanisms of golf, so staying athletic and participating in a variety of sports will help your athletic ability in golf.

3. Focus on strength and flexibility. Golf is less cardio and more strength and flexibility. Strength and flexibility are very important. The golf swing requires movement of multiple joints, from the knees and hips through the elbow, shoulders and wrists. The stronger your muscles, the more stable your joints will be. More stability leads to a more consistent swing and reduced risk of injury. Some common golf injuries include injuries to the lower back and knees.

4. Practice what you’re bad at. Are you more successful with one club over the others? Take time to hone your skills using each club, rather than only using the ones you are most comfortable with.

5. Set goals. As with any sport, goal setting is also beneficial in golf. Consider both fitness goals and skill goals. Perhaps you want to set a goal to be able to squat a certain number of reps, or to hit more greens. Whatever your goals, be specific and put a number to it.

Ultimately, have fun. Golf, like any other sport is just a game. Whether you’re hitting a few rounds at Top Golf or spending a day on the course with your buddies, don’t get too serious. Relax and have fun and you’ll play better, too.

If you need a golf fitness assessment, contact Cooper Fitness Center to schedule an assessment with David Williams. Watch a video demonstration. He will help you establish goals and develop a fitness program for you based on the findings of your assessment.

Article provided by Cooper Aerobics Marketing and Communications.