Strengthen Your "Inner Core" for Longer Drives

Our favorite equipment for the junior golfer.

That's right, your body is the most important piece of golf equipment you have! Most of you don't want to admit that being a little fitter and more flexible would enhance your golf game because it takes some work. Try 30 minutes 3-4 times each week. Don't we all have at least 30 minutes a day to dramatically improve our golf game? I'll bet you can find the time. Just give it a chance.

The most important area of the body for a golfer is the "core", or the center of our bodies. Why? Because the "core", which includes the abdominals, lower back and even the hamstrings are critical in protecting the lower back from injury; and being able to create enough torque to unwind our bodies and produce maximum clubhead speed. The golf swing puts a tremendous amount of tension on the spine and lower back. If this area is weak and inflexible, your spine takes the brunt of the pressure not your muscles. This will most definitely result in a lower back injury.

By strengthening and stretching this area, you will see a dramatic improvement in your distance and accuracy. All it takes is a little consistency and commitment. With just a few pieces of inexpensive equipment such as a stability ball, medicine ball and maybe even some exercise tubing, you can create your own golf fitness gym in your home. You don't need a personal trainer - rent a recommended video on strengthening your inner core, or ask your doctor to recommend some exercises just for you.