Ready To Swing

Many of our clients are exposed to golf at different levels, from the serious weekly player to the annual work function. Though not obviously a risky sport, the repetitive and explosive nature of the golf swing can expose those who are less than prepared to unnecessary harm.

Attitudes to warming up for golf are generally very poor. A 2003 survey found just 3% of people had warmed up adequately despite believing it could enhance performance (75%) and help prevent injury (27%).

The most vulnerable areas for golfers are the lower back, elbow, wrist and shoulder, with over 80% of injuries the result of repetitive strain. During acceleration into the ball very high forces of compression, shear, torsion and lateral bending occur about the lower back. Due to poor swing mechanics these loads are much greater in amateurs than professional golfers, despite less power being delivered to the ball.

An adequate warm up consists of cardiovascular exercise to increase blood flow to the peripheral muscles, followed by stretching and then sport specific activities to help activate the learned motor control pathways for the game at hand.

Exercise sheet available from the Josephine Lawson Physiotherapy Clinic.