To have a successful game of golf, there are a lot of different aspects of the game that you have to consider, practice and work on. However, what many golfers may not realize is the importance of the warm up that happens prior to even beginning your game at the first hole. Your warm-up before the game can either make or break your success and how you perform throughout. If you are new to the game of golf, you may be wondering what a proper game warm-up entails? For everyone, beginners and golfers who have years of experience, check out some tips on what your warm-up should include:
- Stretches. To begin your warm-up, start off by incorporating some stretches. Focus on areas such as your calves, glutes, arms and shoulders to ensure that you are hitting all of the major muscles that will be used throughout the game. The looser your body and muscles, the more prepared you will be.
- Physical and mental swing. Next, focus on your swing. You should be physically practicing your swing with each club a total of 3-5 times, but additionally focusing on your mental swing. Get your body and mind up to the same speed and practice not only hitting the balls but focusing on the rhythm itself.
- Putting. Next, it is time to get started on your putting. The more you put, the more you will build up consistency and confidence. Putting should be one of your main priorities within your warm-up, so it is OK to spend some extra time in this area.
- Get your heart rate up. Once you have practice swinging and putting, and have stretched out your muscles, incorporate some small, quick exercises to get your heart rate up and your body ready for physical activity. Small exercises like this can include some jumping jacks or jogging in place. Ultimately, you want to have an injury free and successful game, and this is how you can get there!