Back in Swing: Why Fitness Matters for Your Golf Game

September brings a change of pace for golfers in the Algarve. After the quieter months of July and August, when many play less or are away, competitions start up again and the focus returns to the course. It is the perfect time to make sure the body is as ready as the mind.

Golf might not look demanding, but the forces involved in a swing are huge. The speed our muscles move during the downswing can be similar to a 60 metre sprint. We would never sprint without warming up, yet many golfers head straight to the tee and swing at full speed with no preparation.

Especially as we age , warm up are esssential to reduce injury , enable us to move to be able to hit the ball. So many golfers take painkillers when they play rather than do anything to help to mobilise the body. It is made worse by the fact that generally most golf courses start with a par 4 or par 5 so most players will take their Driver , the club they swing the fastest might make a few practice swings , and then hit it.

Golf is actually quite an explosive sport , the speed we move to hit the club, and the force is quite significant. The more we can do to assist the body to do this , and to do it with minimal injury and post round aches and pain the better!

Mobility is vital. If the hips or shoulders are tight, the spine often takes the strain, leading to discomfort and injury. Lower back injuries are the most common in golfer.s, and as well as causing pain and discomfort it can also affect the swing. Good mobility in the hips, spine and shoulders helps the swing feel smoother, more powerful and easier on the body.

Strength is just as important. Power comes from the ground up, starting with the legs and glutes. A strong core supports rotation and stability, and while the upper body does play a role, golf is far from an arm only sport. Keeping the back & shoulders strong will help to reduce back pain and injury. Having strong legs and glutes are so important, as well as helping our swing they also enable us to walk around the course with ease, help with balance and also and very importantly they enable us to keep moving as we age, so that we can continue to play this game until we are well into our 90s !

Strength is also a key component to being able to continue to hit the distances we want to as we age , as well as being crucial for our health and wellbeing as we age. Muscle is key to longevity.

As the calendar fills with matches, take a little time for mobility drills, some strength work and a proper warm up.

If you are unsure where to start, you can find simple warm up videos by searching Fit2loveLife on YouTube. Or join in my Fit2loveGolf class there are currently spaces available. Your golf game and your body will thank you .