One of the reasons I love golf is because, when I am on the golf course, it completely takes my mind off of whatever else is going on in the world.  Sometimes you just need an escape. Plus, I am usually getting to spend time with my family and friends.  I just love it.

To stay in shape to play for years to come, I created a golf-specific fitness program called Cardiogolf to help me not only exercise, but also help me maintain my swing mechanics. Even if I don’t get to play or practice, my Cardiogolf fitness system helps me improve my swing mechanics, maintain strength, flexibility and endurance.  Here are some of my favorite golf-specific exercises that you can find in my online Cardiogolf programs.  You don’t need a gym or expensive equipment to get a good golf-specific workout.

Squats-

Golf is basically a squat sport.  We start in a squat position and we want to maintain that position throughout the swing.  The ability to squat effectively can help us generate power in the swing.

Squat exercises are great for a total body workout, they effectively work most of the major muscles groups.  Squats are also a versatile exercise. They can be done almost anywhere.  Doing squats can also increase joint flexibility and engage the core.

Squats

Rotation-

One of the most common swing faults among higher handicappers and even some low handicappers is lack of rotation in the torso during golf swing.  Many golfers end up just lifting or just swinging their arms. Compared to professional golfers that have massive torso and shoulder turns. If you lack rotation, you may end up with lack of power, pulls and slices.

Rotation

Back Bends-

We spend most of our days bending forward, whether we are sitting, driving or typing at a computer- we spend most of our day in an unsupportive forward bend.   This position can wreak havoc on our backs and posture as well as the golf swing.  Bending forward can lead to poor posture, restriction in spinal mobility and limited strength in the upper and lower backs.

Doing back bend exercises can effectively counteract damage done from our hours of bending forward.

Cobra

Golf Swing Positions-

The best way to make changes in your golf swing is to do slow motion swing positions practicing the move or position that you are trying to achieve.  Besides working on your swing a few minutes everyday instead of waiting for the day you have hours to practice is more beneficial. Doing a move slowly can help you achieve the correct position and you may be able to move through a larger range of motion and do it more smoothly. Practice slowly at first, then pick up the pace until you get to full speed.

Golf Swing Positions

To learn how to do these and other golf-specific exercise take my Cardiogolf 30-Day Challenge-

“Discover a unique and simple program to improve your swing, shape up your body and trim your handicap”

Take the 30-Day Challenge today

LPGA Teaching Professional Karen Palacios-Jansen was voted 2008 LPGA National and Southeast Section Teacher of the Year. Voted by Golf Digest Magazine as one of America’s “Top 50 Female Instructors” for 11 straight years, Karen has her own golf events company-Swing Blade Enterprises, as well as being a certified personal trainer. Her golf-specific fitness system called Cardiogolf is available on DVD and online. Karen lives in North Carolina with her husband Dan Jansen. Over the years she has helped thousands of golfers improve their golf games. For more information-visit http://www.kpjgolf.com.