Pilates for golfers is great. It may not seem an obvious choice of exercise to build into your golfing preparation. But if you’re interested in maintaining, or even improving, your level of game over the long term and build resistance from a repetitive strain, then we need to talk about Pilates.
The stresses and strains of golf
Golf may not be as high impact as other activities, but play a round of golf and you will feel it. The twisting, bending, reaching, stretching that occurs from the action of golfers can cause muscles to become overused or weakened and the strain will take its toll.
Legs, hips, lower back, arms and shoulders can all be affected by muscle wear and tear brought on through playing golf and this will begin to impact your ability to drive; your shot becomes shorter and less accurate, your stamina is reduced and you become more prone to injuries. This can be of particular concern for older golfers.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a safe form of exercise that places little impact on joints. It focuses on movement from the centre of the body and offers a whole body workout to make it stronger, more mobile and balanced.
Pilates can be adapted to meet individual levels of fitness so you can gradually build your regime as your ability improves. After a Pilates session my clients at Petersfield Physio often feel more aware of their body; stronger, taller, and with a greater sense of well-being.
How does it help
Pilates places an emphasis on posture, core stability, control and coordination. As a golfer, you will appreciate the benefit each of these can have on your technique as you feel your core engage in most of your actions whilst playing golf. Pilates can also help:
- Improve your posture
- Increase joint mobility
- Build muscle strength and flexibility
- Increase hip rotation
- Reduce the risk of injury and back pain
- Increase the range of motion
Specialist knowledge to improve your game
To understand how the movement in your body may be affecting your golf game, at Petersfield Physio we screen golfers’ bodies to assess movement and what might be causing swing problems (have a look at our Golf section).
Physiotherapy can help address the physical limitations impeding your game and with the additional support of Pilates, you’ll be playing the way you want to for longer.
Petersfield Physio
At Petersfield Physio we support our clients every step of the way, even when they find it hard to commit to their exercises.
If you need support to lead a more active life and you live in the Hampshire or Surrey areas, contact the Petersfield Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic or ring 01730 267645. We are here to advise, guide and support you back to a pain free, active lifestyle. After all, it’s a joint process.
Recent Comments