Bangkok International Hospital
A mere few years ago, golfers were not really considered athletes, but during the Tiger Woods era all that changed. Apart from Gary Player, who was a fitness fanatic, few touring professionals would have spent much time on fitness and conditioning. However, it’s now recognized that golf is a demanding game and can lead to injury and stress on the body’s musculoskeletal system.
Surveys vary, but generally the lower back comes out as the number-one golfing casualty, followed by the upper back, wrists and elbows. If experiencing any long term suffering with these injuries, it is advised to consult a reputable clinic.
The golf swing is a totally unnatural motion; such movements, when repeatedly performed, can result in injury. Poor technique is also a contributing factor, but with fitness and conditioning the effects can be controlled, so consider consulting a qualified golfing instructor. A number of courses around Thailand, and several golfing schools and centres, have specialists trained in this field utilising the very latest computerised technology in their consultations.
There is also a specialised golfer health centre incorporated in the Sports and Fitness Clinic at the Bangkok International Hospital and another at Bumrungrad International Hospital. These are staffed by sports physicians and medical personnel trained in dealing with golfing problems.
Players seeking injury prevention and performance enhancement follow customized exercise programs to provide strength, flexibility and cardio-pulmonary capacity all important elements of healthy golf.
The best advice is to hit the gym regularly, but if exercising in public is not your thing, it’s amazing what can be achieved with a few weights and a mat in the privacy of your own home.
Try Pilates or yoga exercises; they make a good starting point for strengthening the core muscle groups and also improving flexibility. Many gyms have special classes on these disciplines, and there are plenty of books describing the basic exercises. These programs, if followed two or three times a week, in 30-minute sessions can not only extend your golfing career, but are invaluable for an all-round healthier everyday life.
Several muscle groups need particular attention to help pack extra power into golf swings and to prevent injuries. First exercise under the guidance of a qualified fitness instructor. Start light, build up and don’t push your limits. Swimming is also an excellent low impact way of staying fit.
One of the most beneficial aspects of golf is walking the course. If done at a reasonable pace, it works the cardiovascular system. So if possible, leave the cart at the clubhouse!
Prevention is better than cure and it’s a simple process to reduce the likelihood of uncomfortable aches and pains spoiling an otherwise enjoyable game. Before leaving the locker room make an effort to undertake sufficient stretching routines to get your body ready for the strain it’s about to undertake. Performing some simple warm-up techniques will put you in good stead for a successful and more comfortable game.
There’s no need to place unnecessary stress on the body, just do what suits without pushing your personal limits – and be sure to do the left and right sides equally in the stretching exercises!
