Warm weather during the summer months drive novice and expert golfers to the links daily. Just as with any sport, it is important to warm up before playing, select the appropriate equipment and learn proper form before attempting this activity. August is Golf Month, and these tips should keep you prepared to keep playing all season long.

Warm Up Properly
Go for a 10-minute walk or perform some of these exercises before starting on your first hole:

Sample Golf Stretches:

• Neck rolls - slowly perform clockwise and counter clockwise neck rolls
• Trunk side bends - with hands resting on your hips, bend side to side and hold
• Swing practice - start with a half swing and work up to a full swing after several minutes; focus on proper mechanics and a slow easy stroke

Perfect Your Swing
You should consider taking a lesson with a professional to refine your swing. If you swing the club too hard or too fast, you may stress your joints. Relax and remember, the best golfers have a consistent swing. During the typical golf swing, your lower back experiences stress in the form of compression and rotation. You can reduce this stress and decrease the likelihood of back injuries by:

• Rotating your shoulder and hip equally during your backswing, and
• Keeping your spine vertical (perpendicular to the ground) during the follow-through.

Selecting the Right Equipment
You can help prevent hand, wrist and elbow pain and injuries by:

• Selecting larger, softer or neutral club grips.
• Using irons with graphite shafts, large heads and "sweet spots" (they decrease the amount vibration when you connect with the golf ball)
• Using the correct club length (the end of the club should extend slightly beyond the palm of your leading hand)

Finally, you should dress for comfort and wear adequate protection from the elements. When shopping for apparel and footwear, pick a pair of golf shoes with short cleats. Long cleats dig into the sod and hold your feet planted as you swing, which may strain your knees or ankles.

Here’s great video that can help get you started on a golf stretching routine for more flexibility –and hopefully a better game!

Sources:

Sports Medicine

Mayo Clinic