Controlled Violence

photo credit: Fevi in Cayman   Have you ever heard someone say, “relax, you’re just too tense today,” or, “you’ve got to swing easier so relax?”  Generally, the more you try to relax the more tense you become, so what’s the magic formula?  It’s very simple: just be at ease.

“If you feel at ease, you are relaxed – but ready,” so said Harvey Penick, world famous golf instructor.  Jackie Burke Jr., who played on the PGA Tour in the 1950’s and 1960’s, said, ” the secret is the feeling of controlled violence.” 

Nothing contributes to good shot-making more than maintaining a relaxed golf swing.  Get yourself into the habit of warming up thoroughly before a round and use a deep breathing exercise on every hole.

Pre-Round Stretching

photo credit: optimal tweezers   One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to start your round of golf without preparing your body for the strenuous movements of the golf swing.  If done properly, the golf swing encompasses all of the major muscle groups, therefore, it is critically important that you warm-up prior to a round.

The concern with implementing a good stretching routine should revolve around the duplication of the golf swing.  While holding a club, spread your arms apart and hold them directly out in front of you.  Now, turn from 12 o’clock to 3 o’clock, back to 12 and then to 9 o’clock.  Now do the same exercise with the club held high over your head.  Do the same exercise with the club held behind your back.  These simple exercises will help you avoid injuries.

Fitness Web-site

photo credit: Marco Gomes   If you are looking for ways to keep your golf game at it’s peak, check out www.fitness-to-play-golf.com/.  The site encompasses just about every type of equipment which is involved in strengthening key muscle groups used in the golf swing.

The categories include the following:  Balance and Stabilization, Grip & Shoulder, Strength, Flexibility, Core Strength, Muscle Strength, Yoga and Golf Training Aids.

Under every category you will find featured products that enhance specific muscle groups.  Under the Core Strength category you will find products such as Stability Balls, Rollers, Gym Balls and Torso Trainers.  Using any one of these training tools will help strengthen your core muscle flexibility and strength.

For orders or questions, log on to their web-site (above) or call toll free at 1 800 260-2280.