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Golf tips on exercise

Liam drove to the golf course full of confidence, and mentally ready to kick off this year the right way. It was the first time out this year, and there was no doubt, this was going to be the best round ever. He was going to shoot much better than his 110 average.

Hopping out of his car, grabbing his bag, cooler, video camera and dumping it into his electric cart, he was ready. Confidently, he went to the first tee. A couple of swings to get his pace, and he was good to go.

He eyed the fairway, took his full swing at 100% of power, and crushed the ball, 250 yards!! 210 straight, the rest of the 40 yards into the trees. As if the shot wasn't bad enough, the pain in his back brought him to his knees. (By the way, if you are a 'ball hunter', the most likely place to find a ball, aside from water, is about 200-250 yards out, in the trees. That should add to your collection).

Exercise? We don't need no stinking exercise!

Stretching - A Year Round Investment

As you get older the need to retain flexibility in order to play good golf becomes more and more important. Here are a few exercises that will help you accomplish that.

Bend at the waist and touch your toes. If you are able to get halfway between your knees and your toes, you are average. Hold that position until you count to ten. Then, do it twice more. Each time try to stretch the limit and go further. You may never touch your toes, but you're back and calves will appreciate the effort.

The second exercise requires a picture. Sit your lazy derriere on the ground. Take your left leg and place on your right knee (your right leg should be fully extended). Slowly bend forward, until the pain is too great, and then hold for 10 seconds. Repeat twice, each time trying to bend forward a little further. When done, stay in that position, and place your right hand on the ground, and twist your lower back left to right. Let your left hand act as a pivot, or a balancing rod. You may want to place it on your right upper thigh to maximize stretching.

Now, repeat these exercises from the opposite side.
The last two exercises involve using your 3-iron. Exercise #1 (or three, if you are actually reading this book) simply involves a windmill activity with your left hand, and then your right. See picture below. Start slow, and build speed. You need only do this for ten seconds, each hand/arm.

The last exercise is my favorite. Simply grab your three iron, place behind your back with your arms locking it, and swwinnnggg your torso left to right about 6 times. Then, stop. In that same position, gradually bend forward until you start crying like a baby, and hold for ten seconds. Repeat twice more, and you may now golf.

These exercises should take no more than 5 minutes, and while they will not condition you to go box for 12 rounds, they should do the minimum necessary so you play in golf shape.

If you want more detailed exercise regimen, go hire a personal trainer