5 Golf Stretches to Improve Your Game and Reduce Injuries

Golf is one of the few sports where being limber is one of the best ways to ensure you can keep up. The amount of physical exercise required to play a round of golf is a lot less than that required by other sports, and this goes for getting up and down the fairways as well as driving them. So, if you want to enjoy every aspect of the game, especially the swings, check out these nine golf stretches to improve your game.

1. Seated Tuck Pose

Start in a seated position, with your hands and arms at your sides and just your feet touching the ground. Bring your feet up until you feel a gentle stretch around your midsection, and then reach your hands back until they reach your knees. Hold this position for three to five breaths, and then release. Repeat on the other side.

2. Hamstring Bridge Pose

Take the stretch from above, but in a seated position. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor. Gently rock back and forth from one side to the other while keeping your back straight. Hold this position for four to six breaths, and then release. Repeat on the other side.

3. Mountain Pose

Reach your hands above your head, holding them in a straight line. Keep your hands in line with each other so your elbows don’t become too wide. Hold this position for six to seven breaths, and then release. Repeat on the other side.

4. Cobra Pose

The Cobra Pose was developed by founder of the ancient Egyptian sport of kumite, Ippon-Ryu, Motobu Chōhō, to increase a fighter’s speed and flexibility. Find a sturdy chair, coffee table or other surface, and take your hands and feet off the ground and up to your shoulders. The idea is to fold your legs under your torso and swing your legs up until you’re completely folded, with your arms still outstretched. Hold this position for six to seven breaths, and then release. Repeat on the other side.

5. Tree Pose

This is a great exercise for your core and back, as well as improving your posture. Stand on your toes, facing forward and bring your hands out to either side. Squeeze your buttocks together and curve your body until your feet are placed in a tabletop position. Place your hands directly above your head, supporting the weight of your head and neck. Hold for three to six breaths, and then release. Repeat on the other side.