The Difficulty of Learning Golf

During my 20 years in private practice of working with athletes of all calibers, I have yet to come across a golfer who is satisfied with their game. The high handicapper wants to break 100; the low handicapper wants to play scratch. No matter what the level of play, golfers want to play better. And they want to enjoy it more.

Unfortunately, a lasting improvement is hard to come by for most participants.

The average score for 18 holes is around 100 and has been hanging around that number for many years. Despite vast improvements in equipment, golfers still struggle. How is that possible?

Here is my perspective:

The golf swing requires a long range, explosive, hi-speed motion on a repetitive basis over a 4-5 hour time span. Additionally, that movement also needs to be very accurate. Gross motor motion and fine motor skills must coincide precisely at the moment of impact on every shot. Sounds difficult? Well, it is. Striking the ball in itself is a difficult task. Now, try performing that task with a body that is stiff, tight and sore from sitting at a desk for the last 20 years. Throw a bit too much weight into the equation combined with a lack of exercise. It's easy to see why the motion of the golf swing is so difficult. Now you know why playing well on a consistent basis is so elusive.

The solution to these golfing woes lies in creating a more structured approach to the learning golf. Typically Golf has been taught with 3 cornerstones in mind: the mental game, the equipment and the swing philosophy.

The new model of golf-instruction also takes the golfers body into consideration. We must think about your body as being the primary piece of equipment. If it is not working well, it does not matter how expensive your clubs were or how many lessons you took. Without a body that is capable of getting into the positions necessary for a successful golf-swing, the student of the game will be restricted to repeating the same faulty movements and be pretty much stuck with their "swing flaws."

Below are a couple of stretches that will loosen your body for an easier round of golf. Just use any club, an old one you have lying around the garage will work! The beauty of these stretches is that you can do them anywhere, not just on the golf course. Do them at home, at the office, or on the driving range! Doing them will take only a couple of minutes. You will be surprised with the results you will feel when you do them a couple times a day, every day.

• Forward bend with club - 1 minute & breathing

• Reach the sky -1 minute & breathing

Always start stretches and limbering with easy movements and do not strain.

And remember, your muscles and ligaments took a few years to get this tight. You will not get them to go back to their original length in a couple of sessions. But if you are consistent and persistent you will feel you will feel the results that you are looking for.

Enjoy!!!!

Dr. Reichardt's experience with golfers and his own love for the game inspired him to be involved with the teaching of the physical aspects of golf. He is teaching, "Fit for Golf-Schools" with PGA player Bob Cisco. www.bobcisco.com