KPJ Golf

Golf-Specific Fitness Tips

Strength training exercises, important for increasing muscle strength and bone mass, require the addition of weight or resistance to challenge the muscles. But some people think that free weights and machines leave them tight in the shoulders and chest, so it is recommend by many golf specific trainers to use resistance bands instead.  Available at sporting good stores, resistance bands stretch your joints and tendons while strengthening your muscles.  Strength along with flexibility is the combination you are looking for to increase clubhead speed for greater distance.

If you are just starting to exercise, begin with a low resistance band and increase the resistance as you gain strength.  Build up to performing each exercise for three sets of 10 repetitions.  This week I will present three strengthening exercises specific to golf.  The first exercise is for your chest muscles.

The pectoralis major, or chest muscle, extends from the sternum to the shoulder joint on each side of the chest and helps the shoulder flex and the arm extend. This muscle is vital for rotation and creating clubhead speed in the golf swing.

Chest Pull
Loop an end of the resistance band around the palm of each hand. Extend arms in front of your body at chest level, elbows slightly bent.  Pull band outward so hands extend beyond the width of your shoulders. Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.

Send me your questions and comments-kpj@swingbladegolf.com.