The golf swing is a complex athletic maneuver. Most shots require explosive power in a controlled manner. This dynamic action involves almost every major muscle group in the body. Flexibility of muscles and joints is important for the production of a full swing and for other important details like keeping your eye on the ball during trunk rotation.
This page outlines a number of stretching exercises you can perform before or during a round of golf. They can help you have a safer, more productive and pain free experience.
 ROTATOR CUFF
The rotator cuff muscles are active during all phases of the golf swing and are the fourth most injured site in golfers. These muscles act primarily to rotate the arm and stabilize the shoulder joint and are stressed in any activity where the hand is raised above shoulder level. Stretching the rotator cuff and other upper body muscles will help prevent injury and promote a fuller and more powerful swing.
TRUNK FLEXIBILITY
Flexibility of the trunk muscles allows for rotation and transfer of force from the lower body to the upper body during the swing. Studies show that the most noticeable difference in a professional golf swing versus amateur is the amount of trunk rotation. More skilled players have almost twice as much rotation compared to players of lesser ability. Increased trunk flexibility leads to a larger arc of the golf swing, which produces more club head speed and greater distance of ball travel.
Players with deficits in trunk flexibility use muscular substitution patterns in order to try and generate sufficient club head speed. The substitution pattern tends to be less efficient, resulting in decreased ball flight and increased stress and strain on the musculoskeletal system. Mobility through the trunk is necessary for a smooth powerful swing that does not overstress the spine or other elements of the mid-body.
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Bruce Mendelson
Physical Therapist
Providence Regional Rehabilitation Services
541-732-5080
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