Warming Up Before a Round

As the season begins I would like to encourage all golfers to warm up before they go to the first tee. This is important for several reasons. First, you want to warm up to prevent injuries. Yes, you can get injured playing golf. Secondly, it is always good to warm-up to get a feel for your game for the day.

I like for my students to warm up for a minimum of 30 minutes before they play a round of golf. I encourage all golfers to do some stretching before ever swinging a golf club (this can be done before you leave the house). Stretch out your legs, hips, back, shoulders, arms, hands and fingers. Then start out hitting a few wedges on the range with small swings. I then encourage golfers to hit a few short irons, some mid-irons, hybrids, a fairway wood and some drivers. I also like for the golfer to end the range session by playing the first couple holes on the range. Hit whatever clubs you would need on the first hole on the range. From the range go hit a couple short chips and pitches around the short game green or the putting green (if allowed) if there is not a short game green; end your session with some putting. I encourage golfers to take one ball to the putting green to practice. Practice some long putts, mid-range putts and end with some short putts. You want to end your putting session hearing the ball hit the bottom of the cup. This will give you a good feel for the round and you can go to the first tee with some confidence.

If the golf course you are playing does not have practice facilities, you can warm up by stretching and swinging a club. Take the time to visualize yourself hitting some good shots and then take it to the first tee.

Remember, a good warm-up routine is important to prepare you for the round. Have fun and enjoy the game.