Traditionally, when a golfer says they will warm up before a round, they are referencing hitting balls at the range. Most start with a wedge and work their way up to the driver. While any movement before the first drive of a round can be beneficial, have you noticed that the success of your first drive isn't necessarily dependent on whether you warmed up at the range or not? Why is that?
When you watch athletes from other sports warm up, they perform exercises that address mobility, strength, and balance. Both coaches and players know that establishing a consistent warmup routine is essential for performing their best and reducing the risk of injury. This routine helps develop a solid foundation of movement before executing complex, explosive, sport-specific actions.
Golf is no different. Although many golfers, instructors, and coaches understand the beneficial impacts that regular exercise can have on the golf swing, many players still rely on practice swings alone and do not prepare their bodies properly. Embracing a comprehensive warmup routine can bridge this gap, ensuring golfers are physically ready to perform at their best from the first drive onward.
For some, changing or even adopting a warmup routine sounds overwhelming. The good news is that a little goes a long way when it comes to warming up. It doesn't have to be long and complicated to be effective. When you focus on mobility, core activation, and balance, you will activate your musculoskeletal and nervous system to prepare your body to hit the ball!
Ready to Transform your warmup?
Grab your Swing Trainer and check out the 5 exercises demonstrated by GolfForever Trainer Andrea Doddato. Give this routine a try next time you are at the course before reaching for your wedge!
If you do not have a Swing Trainer, you can try these drills using a golf club. While it will feel different without the one-sided resistance, you can make sure the upper body is engaged while holding the club (arms straight and strong). Follow Andrea's cues and you will still feel core activation while working on mobility!
- Vertical Push & Pull Hold
- Lateral Core Activation
- Press Hold
- Core & Upper Body Activation
- Pelvic Rotation
- Hip Mobility Activation
- Upper Body Rotation
- Range of Motion & Core Activation
- Impact with Lower Body Initiation
- Power & Speed Activation
Don't let an inadequate warmup hold you back from reaching your full potential on the course~ Start incorporating a proper 10-minute warmup routine today and see the difference in your performance and enjoyment of the game.