Are you someone that schedules your tee time around if you will be “warm” by then, or schedule your golf around how much time it will take to warm up before playing? Do you even warm up correctly? If you are static stretching prior to playing golf, you may be losing club head speed and decreasing your golf performance. Research has shown that performing a dynamic warm up prior to playing golf can improve your performance and increase your club head speed –increasing your potential for distance.
What the Research Says
In one study published in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research reported that a total body passive static stretching routine should be AVOIDED before practice or competition in favor of a gradual, active dynamic warm up with golf clubs. In a study done in 2012, a group of researchers found that Active Dynamic Warm-up (various shots with different clubs) compared to that warm-up PLUS warm up exercises to a significant increase in IMMEDIATE performance (maximal driving distance, smash factor, and consistent ball strike). What to take away from that? Stop static stretching, and start actively warming up in addition to hitting balls prior to a round.
How Long Does it Take to Warmup?
We know that a static stretching protocol alone can negatively affect your club head speed and golf performance. We also know that a warm-up routine lasting more than 10 minutes has a positive effect on reducing injury rates. Typically, an effective warm up routine should take about 15-20 minutes. If you would like to know if your body needs an effective warm up prior to playing golf, the answer is yes, however where should you focus your time? If you would like to assess your body to help determine your “problem” areas download your FREE P4S Golf Fitness Assessment and found out today.
Author-
Spencer Cole
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Disclaimer: This blog content is for general educational information purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. References available upon request.
