A survey shows that many amateur golfers don't stretch before a tournament. Some felt it isn't needed while others just don't have enough time before going to the green.
But is stretching really important? The answer is yes. This is because it will prepare the player for the tournament as well as prevent sports related injuries.
An appropriate warm up will include some aerobic exercise. This could be a little jogging or doing some jumping jacks to raise the body temperature, which should always be followed with stretching for the upcoming game. Here are a few examples of warm-up stretches.
1. Overhead Extension
This can be done by grabbing the club just outside shoulder width. The club should then be held overhead with the feet apart for balance in this stretch. The individual should stay in this position for about 15 seconds before putting it down and doing it again.
This is designed to prepare the shoulders for the top of back swing position and improve range of motion especially in the follow through. It is best to use a club that is not too light or too heavy when performing this stretch.
2. Arm Circles
The arm must be raised to one side and then made to do some small circles with the spend increasing after a few times. This should be done for 15 seconds then rotated the other way before doing the same thing on the opposite arm.
This is designed to take away any tension in the shoulders before going through the full range of motion during each swing.
3. Partial squat
This is done with the feet apart and the club in front to hold for balance. The lower body must be bent at the knees and not on the hips.
This should be held for a few seconds and must be done 10 or 15 times with the upper body kept erect. This is designed to promote blood circulation and provide an increased range of motion in the hips promoting a better swing from the ground up.
The end of the warm up will always be a few practice swings. This should be done faster and farther each time as preparation for the upcoming game.
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