Hamstring stretch
There was a time when I really felt that flexibility was the most important physical component to work on to help with my golf swing.
I’ve moved away from that idea, since I am older and recognize that strength training is critical to playing golf at an advanced age.
However, flexibility training is still critical.
If you are like me, and have spent the bulk of your professional career sitting at a desk, chances are you have some flexibility issues.
I personally have always been tight in the hamstrings, but it is the hips that have tightened up quite a bit as I’ve aged.
Therefore, I try to dedicate at least two or three sessions per week to work on my hip flexibility. I also work on a few other areas regularly, but usually as part of my warm-up before a workout.
To improve your overall flexibility, you need a set of stretching exercises that hit the major muscle groups and joints.
You should perform this routine at least twice each week with the goal of improving your flexibility.
First, warm-up for a few minutes. You never want to stretch cold muscles and joints as that makes you more susceptible to injury.
With each individual stretch, get into a position that is somewhat uncomfortable, and hold it for 20 to 30 seconds. Relax, then stretch again, but try to reach or stretch a bit further this time, and hold for 15 seconds.
A routine that takes you from head to toe will take at least 30 minutes to complete in this manner.
I personally hate stretching and view it as a necessary evil, but it is absolutely necessary!
After his recent win that broke Hale Irwin’s Champions Tour record, Bernhard Langer hinted that he stretches every day.
I would argue that he should also lift weights for strength, but you get my point. Stretching is vital to playing decent golf at an advanced age.
This is why I include my most complete stretching routine in my golf fitness programs.
Now, get to work!
