Preventing Golf Injuries
Given that golf is a non-contact sport, players are not in danger of physical injury from others, barring the very occasional incidents of the most extreme examples of shanking.
Even so, it is vital that competitors of whatever ability pay attention to both their physical fitness and demands made on the body by the various disciplines within the game.
Physical assessments are a very valuable way of giving those new to the game an insight into how ready their body is to take up the challenge, whether that be in terms of cardiovascular efficiency or potential musculoskeletal problems.
Bad Posture
Take one example: the back. The sedentary working lives of many of us mean bad posture can be acquired, and such problems will only be exacerbated by swinging a golf club.But even if a player does not exhibit any pre-existing weakness, then the appliance of poor technique can bring about its own problems. It is essential, therefore, that attention is paid to booking a series of lessons. A coach will provide a good grounding in the basics, which means there is no excuse not to be aware of the importance of stance, body alignment and grip both in technical as well as physical terms.Warm-up
Once you've grasped the basics of how to swing a club properly, be sure to develop a series of warm-up exercises to be completed prior to taking to the course. Whatever the sport, it is important that the muscles are not cold when called upon to exert themselves, otherwise when they are stretched injury will result. Remember that golf makes demands on all areas of the body so as well as limbering up the shoulders and completing stretching exercises on the lower body to prepare the hamstrings and calf muscles, ensure the hips, wrists and neck are prepared as well.Muscle Strength
Improving fitness is also recommended, so taking up swimming and visiting the gym on a regular basis will build stamina and increase muscle strength. Speak to one of the fitness trainers and explain that you would like a programme drawn up that will address the physical requirements of the game of golf. This will concentrate your efforts on the relevant muscle groups and areas where greater flexibility should be attained.Remember, too, to listen to your body. If you are experiencing pain, then that is a sign that something is wrong. It may only feel like a slight muscle twinge or strain but continuing to use the affected area is not going to make it better; rather the contrary will be the result.
