Adelaide Podiatrists talk about some simple foot exercises and offer a few tips to improve the golf swing…
What Do Golfers of All Ages Have in Common?
They want to play better golf by hitting the ball further and more consistently. And like many sportspeople, golfers need to be able to move freely to play well. After all, it only takes one small change to have a big effect on the result. So, can podiatry help with your golf swing? We think so, and we have some useful golf swing tips and exercises to help.
Foot Exercises for Golfers
One quarter of the bones in your body are in your feet. Healthy feet will allow you to absorb shock, adapt to the terrain, generate power, and remain stable during your golf game. It’s important to look after them!
Healthy feet will allow you to absorb shock, adapt to the terrain, generate power, and keep you stable through your golf swing. Share on XHere are some simple exercises you should include in your warm up routine.
Foot Exercise 1: Ankle Circles
With your legs straight in front of you, turn your feet slowly in circles without letting them jolt, shudder, pause or change direction. You have 13 muscles that act around the ankle joint, if they can’t all communicate effectively while you’re in such a controlled environment, they won’t help when you’re swinging a golf club!
Foot Exercise 2: Golf Ball Foot Massage
Before you put your shoes on, roll your foot up and down and side to side on a golf ball. This will help to loosen the small muscles and tendons in your feet, and prepare them for work. Plus, it feels really good!
Foot Exercise 3: Calf Stretches
Stretch the calf muscles on the back of your lower leg to give you freedom of movement through your ankles. Do this by standing with both feet on the edge of a step, and dropping one heel down until you feel a gentle stretch along the calf muscle.
These are simple exercises that can have a big impact on your golf.
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Further Foot Care & Golf Swing Tips…
Feet are often forgotten about, until there’s a foot problem. Currently 1 in 5 Australians are experiencing foot pain, and podiatrists are the experts dedicated to helping people with foot pain. There are some simple things you can do to take care of your feet for golf. Here are four quick golfing tips:
1. Cut Your Toenails
Sounds simple enough but there’s nothing worse than an ingrown toenail, or sharp corner that irritates the toe next to it. Cut your toenails straight across, and file the corners with a nail file. If ingrown nails are a problem, click here for further information on a permanent nail solution.
2. Wear Good Socks
Socks that have natural fibres that wick moisture away from your skin will help keep the skin fresh, and reduce the likelihood of blisters. Most socks are only good for 20 or so washes, so replace them often.
3. Choose Good Golf Shoes
Choose golf shoes that have enough room for your toes and don’t allow your heels to slip out. Make sure they have sufficient grip to allow you to help look for your partner’s ball (because with all of these tips you’re not the one losing the ball anymore!) – One slip and you could be out for weeks.
4. Golf Shoe Fitting Tips
Whenever you notice a few of your golf spikes wearing out – replace all the spikes.
When it’s time to replace your golf shoes, shop for footwear at the end of a round. If they’re comfortable after a long day on the course, they’ll be your new favourites.
Don’t just get the next model up – have your feet fitted properly. Three out of four people have one foot larger than the other, so make sure you visit a reputable golf shop and try both shoes on in store.
5. Lift With Your Legs
Don’t strain your back lifting your clubs out of the car. Use good posture, bend your knees and stay safe!
Is the Walk Ruining Your Golf?
The podiatrists at Posture Podiatry are mad about golf, and love helping golfers make the most of their game.
With podiatry treatment for golfers of all levels, you can:
- Hit the ball further
- Reduce your risk of injuries
- Have more energy at the end of the round
Happy golfing!
To schedule an appointment, call us on 8362 5900 or
