Get Fit for Spring Golf Season With These Tips
Spring is right around the corner, and with that comes great weather for playing golf. If you hunkered down indoors too much this past winter you may not feel quite ready for the upcoming golf season. But that’s ok — we’ve put together beneficial tips that will help you get fit in time for golfing this spring.
Stretch your hips
Having the ability to swing your hips with ease is essential for a good golf swing. Try stretching your hips at least once a day. Here’s an effective stretch to try: Lie on your back on the floor and bring your knee to your chest while the other leg remains flatly extended. Gently move the flexed knee from side to side for about 30 seconds, then switch legs to do the same stretch on the other side. Done daily, you’ll quickly feel the positive effects of this easy stretch routine.
Always be swinging
Whether the weather is amenable or not, you can always find a place to practice your golf swing. If you plan on practicing it inside, do so safely with a large buffer of space above and around you. When you feel comfortable, try a weighted club for your practice swings. Gradually work your way up to a goal of a 100 swings a day. This exercise not only helps you practice for the real deal, but it also helps to improve your flexibility too.
Strengthen your core
Having strong core muscles is imperative for increasing your stability — and we all know that good stability is vital for an excellent golf swing. The bonus? The stronger your core, the less likely you’ll develop lower back pain. Yoga offers a unique way to improve your core strength as well as provide several other benefits, such as better balance and enhanced focus. (Note that we offer yoga classes for both men and ladies at Harbor Club.)
Walk the walk
The colder winter months often equate to more time sitting rather than getting up and moving. Sitting for too long can quickly lead to hip and back problems — both of which are golf-swing killers. Do yourself a favor and start walking more. If you have a fitness tracker, turn on the reminders to get up and walk. Park farther away from building entrances. Or simply hop on a treadmill at the Fitness Center down at The Grove. All of your extra efforts will add up to more energy in your swing and endurance on the course.
Drink up
Water that is. You already know that there are tons of benefits from increased water intake. It prevents cramps and sprains, flushes out toxins, and promotes weight loss. More importantly, the more water you drink, the more hydrated your muscles will be. That alone will improve your muscle function on the course — helping to both optimize and maximize your performance.
Spring is right around the corner, so give these tips a try and book a tee time to put them to the test. We think you’ll love the results …and playing on our award-winning golf course too. Book your tee time today.