Preventing Common Golf Injuries

Although golf is a non-contact sport, there are still plenty of different ways that you can injure yourself on the course. Many players don’t look at golf as a form of exercise, and as such, they don’t take the proper precautions to ensure that they do not strain their muscles or injure their tendons. There are a few things that every golfer can do to minimize their chance for injury on the course and many of these tips will actually help you improve your game.

1. Don’t forget to stretch.

Any type of exercise should be preceded by a brief stretching session. Take about ten to fifteen minutes to stretch out your arms, leg and back. Your movements should mirror the swings you will be taking but much slower. This will give you plenty of time to get warmed up. As a bonus, the first few holes should go a lot smoother since you won’t have to get warmed up while you are actually on the course. If you don’t have a lot of free time, even five minutes of stretching is better than none.

2. Don’t forget to cool down.

Conversely, just like stretching before golf is important, it is also vital to go through a good cool down stretching session when you are done. When you go right from the course to flopping into a chair at the grill, you are not giving your muscles enough time to recover after your exertion. Simple stretches can help you avoid post-game soreness and keep your muscles in shape. Even though it is tempting to immediately quit once you’ve finished the last hole, try to do a few cool down stretches before you head off to the clubhouse.

3. When necessary, use a cart.

There are just some courses out there that are not friendly for walkers. Unless you are in peak physical condition, you will regret it if you don’t use a cart, especially if the course is very hilly. As a bonus, your game will go a lot faster, and you won’t end up feeling like you just ran the Boston Marathon when you wake up the next morning. If the course is easy to walk – walk it. If not, err on the side of caution and get the cart. Your muscles will thank you.

4. Use proper form.

One of the easiest ways to injure yourself on the course is by using improper form on your swing. This can stress not only your arms and shoulder, but also your back, neck and legs. If you are finding that you are wracked with pain after every round of golf, your form may be to blame. Schedule a one-time lesson with the club pro to make sure that your stance is correct. This can save you many aches and pains later on.

Golf actually does require a good deal of physical effort. Treat it like you would any other exercise program and remember not to overdo.

Photo Credits: 1

Originally posted 2008-08-27 05:50:33. Republished by Old Post Promoter

Blog Traffic Exchange Related Posts
  • ringsGolf as an Olympic Sport? Top golf players are full of enthusiasm as their appointed ambassadors work to have golf included as an Olympic sport. Players are citing that the most memorable events are those where you represent your country in a foreign competition. Bringing back a medal is a honor that carries the most......
  • crRancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa, Rancho Bernardo, California Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa is located in: Rancho Bernardo, California, United States Phone: (877) 517 9340 Website - http://www.ranchobernardoinn.com/ About the Course - The Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa is one of the premier golf resorts in San Diego, pressed right up against all of......
  • golfballsGolf Tips: Addressing the Ball One of the biggest problems for many golfers comes when it is time to address the ball. There are so many things that can go wrong, that it is all too easy to lose your focus and end up spoiling your shot because your mental game is a mess. Here......
  • Tiger Woods in 2009 Tiger Wood has taught the public one lesson in the first decade of his career; do not try to apply logic to the man. His golfing ability and his capability to pull a win in any situation is beyond the understanding of any mere mortal. In 97, people said it......
  • Black Lake Golf Course, Nipomo, CABlack Lake Golf Course, Nipomo, CA Phone Number: (805) 343-1214 Website: http://www.blacklake.com/ Course History: This course is actually three nine hole courses in one, so you'll have the rate opportunity of being able to change up your game. This is one of the few 27 hole courses in the area and it's well worth the drive.......
Blog Traffic Exchange Related Websites
  • stretchingHow to Stretch Properly Although most of us recognize that we have to stretch before we exercise there is a lot of confusion out there about how to actually go about it. If you’re not stretching the right way, you could actually be setting yourself up for an injury. Here are some great tips......
  • Basketball4 Tips on How to Get Active Right Now If you're trying to turn your life around and start getting more exercise, that first step you take will be the hardest. It's always hard to make a change and stop taking the easy way out, but you're going to have to stay committed if you want to achieve......
  • Bachelor Party Finances – 5 Ways to Keep Costs Low Yesterday, I got back from a ridiculous weekend at the New Jersey Shore (Avalon to be exact).  I was there for my friend’s bachelor party.  I have known this buddy since we were 8, so being one-third of the team that was setting it up, I was pumped to make......
  • groceryWhat is "Natural Weight Loss" Exactly? Do you understand the concept of natural weight loss? If you want to promote successful, long term and permanent weight loss, then you need to employ natural weight loss efforts rather than turning to other methods for losing the extra weight. Natural weight loss is weight loss facilitated by eating......
  • Hoopnotica The hula hoop burst onto the scene in the 1950’s and it’s been a national pastime since. Most of us remember playing with them as kids, but by the time we get to be adults, we leave them behind. Little do most of us know that hula-hooping is actually very......
Online Stores

The Basics of Golf Etiquette

When it comes to playing golf, a major portion of the game isn’t your swing, or how far you can drive, it’s how well you can follow the unspoken rules of the game. Golf etiquette has been largely forgotten by many, and the advent of public courses with relaxed rules has lessened its impact in some regards, but it is still a good idea to learn more about it and to practice good golf etiquette whenever you can. You may find that this structure may even help your game.

1. Proper Attire.

This is a very important part of golf etiquette and it is the reason that so many courses have instituted dress codes. For men, the proper attire is considered to be a nice pair of golf slacks, although in warmer climates, shorts that are knee length are usually acceptable. Shirts should have collars and sleeves, like a polo shirt or a golf shirt. Most men’s golf shirts will also come with pockets to make it easier to keep your score card handy.

For women, the rules are a little different. Golf skirts or shorts are usually allowed, but they should be at least mid-thigh or longer in length. Good slacks are always acceptable as well. Shirts should be collared, and sleeveless shirts may be allowed, depending on the course.

Denim is strictly forbidden by most courses, and the proper shoes and spikes should also be worn. Today, many courses are switching to soft spikes only and it is a good idea just to purchase these and wear them by default so you don’t have to worry about switching them around if you visit a course with this rule.

2. Behavior.

Golf is considered to be a sport of gentlemen (and ladies) and proper behavior is encouraged. This means keeping your voice down, refraining from excessive colorful language and being mindful of how your behavior may disrupt other golfers. Bursts of temper are frowned upon (unless you happen to be John Daly) and throwing clubs or having a tantrum are considered to be bad form. While this game can be frustrating, it is never acceptable to “act out” your frustrations on the course.

3. Your own equipment/food/beverages.

Most courses will provide rental clubs if you don’t have your own set and many have instituted the rule that if you are on the course, you must be playing. In addition to the proper clubs, carrying your own cooler, bringing your own food or bringing drinks on to the course is frowned upon. If you must have a cooler with you, many courses will provide you with one that you can take on your cart.

There is a lot of controversy over whether alcoholic beverages should be allowed on a golf course, and the best rule of thumb to follow is that they don’t belong. You can always get one at the clubhouse after your game, and many courses now have concession stands or small areas to get a snack at the ninth hole.

By following proper golf etiquette at all times, you’ll never have to worry about breaking the rules, no matter where you play.

Photo Credits: 1

Originally posted 2008-12-05 05:06:58. Republished by Old Post Promoter

Blog Traffic Exchange Related Posts
  • Sunol Valley Golf Course Sunol Valley Golf Course is located in: Sunol, CA Phone: 925-862-0414 View Larger Map Website: http://www.sunolvalley.com/ Course History: This course has received a four star rating by professionals and is one of the most beautiful courses in the Bay Area. Two courses are actually available to cater to players of......
  • mountainspringsgcMountain Springs Golf Course, Sonora, CA Mountain Springs Golf Course is located in Sonora, CA Phone: (209) 532-1000 Website: http://www.mountainspringsgolf.com Course History: This is one of the prettiest golf courses we've ever seen in this area, and it's easy to see why it has become such a local favorite. Robert Muir Graves designed the course, which......
  • Poplar Creek Golf CoursePoplar Creek Golf Course Poplar Creek Golf Course is located in: San Mateo, CA Phone: 650-522-7510 Website: http://www.poplarcreekgolf.com/ Course History: This is an incredibly fun course to play and is challenging enough for pros while still being enjoyable for novices. The greens average around 5,000 sq feet, so get your putting practice in now.......
  • Prune Ridge Golf ClubPrune Ridge Golf Club  PruneRidge Golf Club is located in: Santa Clara, CA Phone: 408-248-4424 Website: http://www.pruneridgegolfclub.com Course History: Although this is a nine-hole course, it has quite a bit to offer and is a local favorite. They have added a visual golf stop motion training system that is quite useful, particularly for those......
  • Ancil Hoffman, Carmichael, CAAncil Hoffman Golf Course, Carmichael, CA  Ancil Hoffman Golf Course is located in: Carmichael, CA Phone: (916) 482-3813 Website: http://www.ancilhoffman.com Course History: This course was designed by the renowned architect William Bell and first opened in 1965. It is easily one of the best courses in the Bay Area and offers quite a challenge to most......
Blog Traffic Exchange Related Websites
  • ice6 Ice Fishing Tips Ice fishing is a sport that you either love or hate, and it is generally dependant on how much you like cold weather. While the days of freezing over an open hole on the lake have been superceded by cozy little portable cabins, there is still an element to this......
  • deerGuidelines for Safe Hunting Hunting, by nature, is a dangerous and risky sport because it involves firearms, and shooting those firearms. Hunting accidents occur all year long in different parts of the world, which only proves the importance of safe hunting guidelines and why you should uphold them. Deer hunting safety is a truly......
  • crossbowCrossbow Hunting May See Rule Changes by Game Commission As far as sports go, hunting and ping pong really have nothing alike. However, hunters who are preparing to enjoy the 2009 archery hunting season have been forced to watch a rather tedious series of parries as the Game Commission's board of directors lodge a series of serve and return......
  • Discover Useful Info About The Thousands Starting A Home Business many people are searching the internet for home based businesses every month; with these numbers it is clear to see that the demand for home based businesses is on the rising rapidly. With the number of business opportunities that are offered to make money will continue to grow. You......
Online Stores

Picking The Right Gear to Improve Your Game

golf gearIf you are finding that no matter what you try, your golf game is just not getting to the point where you want it, the answer may be in the tools and equipment you are using. Many players go their entire lives without a proper fitting for their clubs. Others may never realize that their feet may be the culprit. Here are some tips on how to get the best equipment and the best results for your game.

  1. Schedule a fitting.

    A club fitting is vital for any golfer and the good news, most pro shops will offer a free fitting, especially if you’re ready to make a purchase. Everyone is built differently, and off-the-rack clubs may not be suitable for your needs. For example, if you have arms that are a bit short, you will need to find a club that is longer to compensate. Otherwise, you’ll be throwing off your stance. If you are shorter in the legs than the torso, this can also affect the type of club that you should be using.

    By getting a proper fitting, you’ll be able to get an expert’s advice on the types of clubs that you will need. It may be that a custom set that is built specifically for you may be the answer to your game problems. They may cost a bit more, but in the end, custom clubs are well worth it, especially if you’re trying to work towards a better score.

  2. Wear the right shoes.

    Our shoes make a huge difference in the way that we play golf. If you’re pitched wrong, or using shoes that are not intended for golf, it can completely throw off your swing. For example, let’s say that you are an overpronator. This means that your feet tend to bend in a little towards the inside. If you are not wearing a shoe that corrects this problem, you won’t be able to get as much power into your swing as you would like.

    To see whether or not you may need a special pair of golf shoes, here is an easy test. After your shower, before you get out of the tub, place a towel on the floor. Get out of the tub and stand on the towel. Step away and take a look at the footprints. Do they seem like they disappear in the middle of your foot? You may be over or under pronating. Do they seem very flat? You may need special arch support to improve your posture, and your swing.

    The type of spikes that you’re using can also affect your swing and how you play the game. Most courses are now switching to soft spikes, but you’ll need to play around a bit to find the spikes that are best for you. You may not need a full shoe of them, or you may need quite a few. Experiment to find the best spike configuration for your unique needs.

Photo Credits: 1

Originally posted 2008-11-21 04:31:16. Republished by Old Post Promoter

Blog Traffic Exchange Related Posts
  • Whitehawk Ranch Golf Club, Lake Tahoe, CAWhitehawk Ranch Golf Club, Lake Tahoe, CA Whitehawk Ranch Golf Club is located near Lake Tahoe, CA Phone: 530-836-0394 Website: http://www.golfwhitehawk.com/golftoday.htm Course History: Dick Bailey designed this magnificent course that stretches out over nearly 7000 yards. It was carved into the Mohawk Valley and the natural terrain makes for a game that is challenging for all players......
  • golf clubHow to Pick the Right Golf Clubs If you are new to this sport, or ready to take it to the next level, club selection has a lot to do with how well you will end up playing. While there is no substitution for technique and skill, having the right kind of golf clubs can have a......
  • Coyote Creek Golf Club Coyote Creek Golf Club is located in San Jose, CA Phone: 408-463-1400 Website: http://www.coyotecreekgolf.com/ Course History: There are two courses at Coyote Creek, the Valley Course and the Tournament Course. They are both Jack Nicklaus signature courses and are considered two of the most beautiful places to play golf in......
  • clubsChoosing the Right Golf Clubs If you want to move past your current golf skill level to the next one, then you need to learn how to choose the right golf clubs. Having some basic tips and tricks in your arsenal when you go looking for professional golf clubs is absolutely vital. Skim through these......
  • golf-clubsGolf Club Fundamentals For anyone who is unassociated with golf, it may seem absurd to have a need for fourteen different clubs that all appear to be similar to one another. Yet as you begin to play the game, you will begin to notice that each of these seemingly similar golf clubs actually......
Blog Traffic Exchange Related Websites
  • Golf Memorabilia Sports Memorabilia -> Autographs - Original -> Golf - PGA While the sport of golf may not be quite as popular as football or baseball, it still has its share of rabid fans and when you’ve got a fan base like that, you’re guaranteed that there will be a demand......
  • How To Be The Go To Guy/Gal With Articles And Make Serious Cash The drive to make money is present in almost everyone. After all, who could not use a little extra dough? A wealth of opportunities exist for Internet job seekers, many of those opportunities involve writing articles for customers for cash....
  • Debt Reduction - It's Not the Method, It's the Plan I am constantly seeing posts about debt reduction. Whether it is people talking about Dave Ramsey’s baby steps, paying the highest interest first, or Baker talking about his Debt Tsunami.  Why is it that so many people are looking for a method, or an excuse, to pay off their debt?......
  • wiifitWii Fit: Healthy Weight Loss? Have you ever wondered if those video game exercise programs work? Can you achieve healthy weight loss playing a video game? The Wii Fit is the most popular of the weight loss programs that are on the market today. It has sold many thousands of units, but some wonder if......
  • weight loss chartWeight Lost: 46 Pounds in 6 Weeks aka Over 7lbs this Week! After 6 weeks on the medically assisted weightless program JumpStart medicine with Dr. Sean Bourke, I have lost 46 pounds in 45 days (just over a pound a day... Wow!) I highly recommed Jumpstart. I have a special offer for anyone in wanting to try Jumpstart in Redwood City or Mountain View: $25......
Online Stores