Flexibility is a key component in developing the mobility required so that you can execute a proficient swing.
Limitations in either the joint range of motion or soft tissue extensibility are factors in a biomechanical efficient swing.
On average a golfer's shoulders rotate between 78 and 102 degrees and hips rotate 47-55 degrees on a backswing. Optimal performance of the golf swing requires both optimal joint range of motion and tissue extensibility. Through training, you can decrease the faulty movement patterns and ultimately improve your game.
However, flexibility not only helps with the above but also helps with injury prevention. By completing relevant stretches in your workout you can help correct any current injuries and prevent future ones.
There are several different types of flexibility training:
Self-Myofascial Release - this essentially is flexibility training with a foam roller, stick or therapy ball. This type of technique focuses on the neural and fascial systems in the body (fibrous tissues that surround and separates muscle tissues)
Static Stretching - This type of training passively takes the muscles to the point of tension and holds it for a minimum of 30 seconds. This allows for better elongation of the muscle, these types of stretching are best done at the cool down when the muscles are warmed from the workout.
Active-Isolated Stretching - This form of stretching increases motorneuron excitability, creating reciprocal inhibition of the muscle being stretched. These are suggested to take place during the warm up as long as there are no postural deviations.
Dynamic Stretching - This type of stretching uses the force production of a muscle and the body's momentum to allow the joint to go through the full range of motion. These are good to include in your cool down to get your joints prepared for exercise.
PNF Stretching - This type of stretching is when you start with a passive static stretch at your point of tension, you are then assisted by a trainer to take you past that point or create as a resistance against the muscles as you release to be taken back to your point of tension. These are suggested that they are included in your cool down.
Flexibility training is essential to ensure that your training starts on a solid base. Flexibility has so many benefits to your golf swing as well as your functional fitness in your every day life.
After assessments, we will determine what we need to focus on with your flexibility but overall flexibility will be included in your session plans as well.
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