Stretching to Maintain Your Score: "Try It This Way"

US Golf.com Recommended Warm-up Routine "Twisting Stretch, Hip Press, Scarecrow Twist"

Sufficient stretching before the round increases flexibility and greatly helps in maintaining your score.

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] There is a golfer whose score does not improve no matter how much they practice.

Their physical condition is not bad, and their strength and speed are also not lacking. They practice diligently. However, when on the field, their whole body aches and hurts. This is due to a lack of flexibility. Professional players such as the "resurrected golf emperor" Tiger Woods (USA) and Adam Scott, the first Australian Masters champion, all have their own unique pre-round stretching routines. Here are some stretching know-hows for amateur golfers to improve flexibility.

Recently, Golf.com in the United States introduced five stretching methods that help with the golf swing. First is the Twisting Stretch. This method stretches the leg muscles more than the hips. Place your left hand behind your back, bend your waist, and touch your left foot with your right hand. Then, straighten up and twist your body while pointing your right hand towards the sky. Repeat this motion six times, then proceed in the opposite direction. This helps relax the tension in the legs and arms.

The second is the Hip Press. This movement relaxes the hips and hamstrings. It alleviates lower back pain and increases the range of motion in the legs. With both heels touching the ground, stretch your right foot forward. Place your left hand on your waist and hold the golf club with your right hand to maintain balance. Lift your right foot, tuck your pelvis inward, lower your torso while keeping your back straight, and arch your lower back.

The third is the Scarecrow Twists. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, place the golf club behind your neck and shoulders, and hold it. This is the so-called scarecrow pose. Slightly bend your knees and rotate your body left and right. As your body loosens, increase the rotation angle. This strengthens the spine and helps with a smooth swing. The fourth is the Standing Side Stretch, which is similar to the side exercises in the national calisthenics.

Cross your feet, raise your right arm, and lean your body to the left. This opens up the chest and diaphragm muscles. The last is Shoulder Flossing. It can reduce stiffness in the back, neck, and shoulders. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, hold the golf club with both hands, and lift it above your head. Move the club backward until it is parallel to the ground. To increase the intensity of the stretch, bring your hands together and hold the club.