Yoga and Golf

The main goals of most golfers are to get more distance with your clubs and to lower their score. Yoga can benefit a golfer by increasing strength, flexibility, stability, and balance.

As a collegiate athlete, I practiced yoga during the time I played competitive golf and noticed an increased distance of about 5 to 8 yards with each of my clubs. I also found that my yoga experiences allowed me to be more focused during competition which had a positive impact on my game.  Yoga can be a valuable discipline to work into your exercise routine; it is almost guaranteed to improve your overall athletic ability and help your golf game.  Listed below are three poses that will benefit a golfer’s game.

·         Tree Pose

§  Standing up you will place your weight on your right leg and place your left foot on your calf or thigh depending on your capability. Raise hands about your head and breathe.

§  Benefit: The golfer will gain better balance for their stance, during the swing, and with their finish.

·         Plank Pose

§   Start on your hands and knees. Hands flat on the ground with your shoulders over your wrist you will walk your feet back till your body forms a straight line. Your arms will be extended. Try not to poke your butt high into the air and the opposite not letting your back sagging.

§  Benefit: This will help the golfer get strength in the core which will lead to an increase in distance.

·         Downward Facing Dog

§  Start on your hands and knees. Lift your knees away from the ground and keep knees slightly bent. Pressing your heels into the ground. Your body will be in a v shape with your butt high in the air.

§  Benefit: This will help the golfer stretch out those tight hamstrings from all of the walking on the course.