In this article, I am going to detail 5 golf exercises that anyone can use to get started in their fitness journey.
A Program is Obsolete Without Adherence
Trying to get somebody to stick to a new habit, which is what training is, can be quite difficult. A common reason why people who start training don’t keep it up past the novelty stage is that it takes too long. This can lead to the whole project being scrapped as opposed to doing the best you can with your current motivation, discipline, and time available.
A simple way to increase motivation and discipline, while beginning to get into the habit of regular physical training is to assign short & simple workouts which are easy to complete frequently. Then once you have the “bug” and are “in”, more detailed and intensive programs can be followed.
The 5 exercises provided here which work on a combination of mobility, stability, and strength are a great gateway into a more comprehensive strength and conditioning program, which you can check out here: Fit For Golf App.
5 Golf Exercises
Perform the following for 1-3 rounds of 5-10 reps on each exercise.
Pelvic Rotations
Pelvic rotations are a great way to work on the ability to separate the rotation of the lower and upper body during the swing which is important for correct sequencing and power production. They also work on hip mobility. Pressing the hands down through the golf club makes it easier to keep the upper half still, while the pelvis rotates.
Half Kneeling Thoracic Rotation
These also work on separation, but in the opposite. The lower half stays stable, and rotation comes from the thoracic spine. Thoracic rotation is essential for an adequate shoulder turn. The half kneeling position will limit how much we can “cheat” with our hips while also challenging stability of the trunk and hips.
Hip Hinge
This is a great posture assessment tool and can teach people how to hinge from their hips, rather than rounding or flexing from their lower back. This is important for our address position in golf, and many exercises in the gym, especially deadlift variations, which are an excellent addition down the road.
The golf club must remain in contact with your tailbone, between your shoulder blades, and if possible, the back of your head. Maintain a slight knee flex, and note how the movement is a hinge at the hips, not a squat.
Split Squat w/ Rotation
This works on lower body strength and stability in beginners, and may also help with mobility in the hips and thoracic spine. A strong, stable lower body is commonplace in big hitters, but often lacking in amateurs/physically weaker players.
Lower yourself as far as you can under control, ideally hovering the knee of the rear leg just off the floor, while keeping the heel of the front foot glued to the floor. Most people cannot lower all the way at first, so go to wherever is manageable for now and aim to get lower over time.
Plank w/ Shoulder Tap
These are a more difficult variation of the very popular front plank exercise, which also add an extra stability component for the trunk/core. It’s a great exercise to train trunk & shoulder stability.
The goal is to maintain strict alignment from your ankles to your ears, and keep the hips still as you raise your hand to tap the opposite shoulder. Imagine a glass of water resting on your lower back which you don’t want to spill. If you find this too difficult at first try elevating your hands onto a bench or step.
If you are interested in taking your golf and fitness to the next level I suggest checking out the Fit For Golf App. For $12 per month it is the only golf fitness resource you will ever need. If you’d like, follow me on Twitter to get other golf exercises daily.
You are guaranteed to increase your driver carry distance by 10 yards in 4 weeks.
