Golf injuries - Are you at risk?

Though golf is considered a leisurely sport, it is at the top when it comes to high rates of sports related injuries. Whether you are a professional or amateur player both have very similar injury rates. The most common injuries that occur for professionals are in the low back as well as the left wrist and left shoulder (for right-handed golfer). For the amateur player the most common injuries they experience are in the elbow followed by the low back and shoulder. Most injuries that occur for a professional golfer are primarily due to overuse and poor swing mechanics for the amateur player. If you are a golfer and feel pain or any discomfort at all this could be a sign of injury.

Golf is not just hitting a white ball. It is a sport that requires skill, eye-hand coordination, flexibility, mobility, muscular power, timing, strength and endurance. On average a male golfer burns 620 calories of energy during a round of 18- holes of golf. The game of golf demands a moderate amount of physical activity which requires that golfers have good aerobic conditioning and muscular strength and endurance.

Every golfer at all skill levels is putting themselves at risk of injury if they lack any of the following: flexibility, strength, power, and proper swing mechanics. In as little as 8-weeks the golfer can significantly improve any of the above with a customized golf fitness program. Some benefits of having a personalized program can include but is not limited to improved club-head speed, better shots, restored balance and lower scores.

An effective golf fitness program includes flexibility, balance, plyometric, resistance, and power exercises as well as cardiorespiratory training specific to golf to improve overall golf performance. Do you have a plan to take your golf to the next level? My suggestion is to assess your golf routine and see if you need to add any of the above to your golf program. By having a well-rounded golf fitness program your game and your health will thank you.