Strength and Conditioning: is it right for golf?
Here at Perfect Balance we have been looking at the evidence to answer this question. If we look back traditionally at the improvements within the game of golf they have come in the form of improving
If we look back traditionally at the improvements within the game of golf they have come in the form of improving technology for example better materials for golf clubs and balls. I’m sure if we are all honest we have all picked up one of those glossy magazines with those luring adverts with the shiny new Irons, the big headed driver or the balls with better flight distances and thought if I had those I could be like Rory Mcllroy. In recent years there has been a much bigger emphasis on improving strength,
In recent years there has been a much bigger emphasis on improving strength, flexibility and balance to optimize swing mechanics and reduce injuries. If we look at the game it is actually one of the most powerful and complex movements in sport where forces of up to 8 times your bodyweight can be experienced with the average tour professional making in excess of 2000 swing movements per tournament including practice rounds.Now let’s see what are the most common areas of injuries we see here at the clinic coming out at number 1 is lower back followed by
Now let’s see what are the most common areas of injuries we see here at the clinic coming out at number 1 is lower back followed by wrist, elbow and shoulders. So what can you do to not fall into this category?
Looking after yourself in the gym and getting regular testing or treatment is great place to start.
When we are looking at training golfers we are looking to have as much symmetry as possible within the body especially as golf is such an asymmetrical sport, but something we need to bare in mind is we may never achieve symmetry but we must endeavour to stay as close to symmetrical as we can. This will lessen the chance of injury.
So what sort of training should we be doing?
It is now commonly accepted that training should be more focused towards the development of explosive power and generate high levels of ground reaction force (the force exerted by the ground on a body in contact with it.) This in turn will improve club head speed, so for all you ‘want to be big hitters this is imperative for bigger drives’
But not forgetting to develop and promote adequate levels of flexibility muscle balance and strength and conditioning for the body to deal with the repetitive nature of the sport. We do need to remember that we are not trying to become bodybuilders so we would train the body as a whole rather than in isolation. If we develop all of these attributes well and take care of our bodies we would expect to see a reduction in injuries and a greater level of performance, which has to be a great thing for your GAME!!
