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Yoga and the Golf Swing
BJ Schwehr
Flexibility, how many times have you heard that term used
in describing the golf swing of many pro-golfers? Flexibility
and strength are used as adjectives to describe the extreme
mobility exhibited in the golf swing of Tiger Woods. His flexibility
and strength have made him one of the brightest young golfers
on the PGA tour.
Flexibility might be one of the most important components
of a great golf swing. Flexibility increases the range of
movement needed to apply force to achieve distance when hitting
the ball. Studies have demonstrated that a greater amount
of force is produced when a muscle is pre-stretched before
performing the activity demanded of it. A pre-stretched muscle
creates elastic recoil that applies additional force for a
more powerful contraction. This is known as preloading the
muscle. The most effective and powerful swings are produced
when the force generating muscles are preloaded first.
Yoga is a well-rounded approach to improving your golf game
not only physically but also mentally. Yoga helps to increase
flexibility and range of motion. Yoga promotes flexibility
by strengthening, toning and stretching all of the muscles
of the body. In addition to improving flexibility and increased
range of motion needed to execute a good or better yet, a
great golf swing, yoga also bring the added benefit of improving
the ability to focus and control stress. A flexible, strong
body will provide fluidity to the golf swing and will help
to prevent injury to the back.
Tips for beginning yoga exercise program:
- Check with your healthcare professional before beginning
any type of exercise program.
- Look for a class with a certified yoga instructor. You
can check on the internet for a studio or class in your
area. Many YMCAs and recreational centers offer yoga classes.
- Do you prefer to practice in the privacy of your own
home? Be sure any instructional material or video has instructions
for different levels such as beginner, intermediate and
experienced. On the other hand, you may want to look for
one made especially for golfers or athletes.
- To get the maximum benefit from your yoga practice it
is important that you learn proper form and how to use the
breath
- Stay with it! With daily practice, you will become more
flexible, feel physically and mentally better with more
energy and a better outlook on life.
Author BJ Schwehr, www.yogabeginnings.com
Article Source:
http://www.articlerich.com
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