Golfers, like athletes, are sometimes prone to injury by virtue of their profession. Recurring injuries are more the norm than the exception. This is a matter of concern as injuries lead to poor performance and sportspersons need 100% fitness of mind and body to be on top of their game. This fitness is an outcome of good muscular strength, endurance and mental stability. Regular yoga practice develops a steadfast culture of productivity using the combined power of body, breath and mind. It is not just a fitness program of physical and psychological application but a discipline to tap the immense energy present within each sportsperson. This is expressed in exemplary sportsmanship through the sterling qualities of discipline, equanimity, consistency and tolerance in the face of wins and losses.
In Golf, there is overuse of certain group of muscles. For example, consider a right-hand golfer who has his right shoulder muscles and right neck muscles consistently in stress as the neck is twisted to the right with every swing he or she takes. This action on a daily basis causes shortening of the right side of the neck. If one looks a little carefully, the same applies to the muscles of the hips and legs or right or left arm. The muscles being used in Golf is no longer limited to the style and specialty of one particular shot or swing but depends on using all parts of the body to develop proper balance, distribution of energy to garner strength and maintain focus at all times. Fitness and sustaining capacity of all muscle groups is of paramount importance to be competitive and a fully contributing Golfer.
Asanas and Pranayama can be easily incorporated into a daily fitness routine to give agility and mobility in the body, while sharpening reflexes and providing a clear mind. As a pre-match practice, it can aid the body to release, activate sharpness of body and mind. During play, it helps to maintain muscular strength, agility and good form. Practice of yoga at the end of the day helps one to recover and rejuvenate from fatigue
“A strong inner core decreases the risk of injuries. It is the building block for any sportspersons body. Injury to any professional Athlete is a nightmare as it could lead to a premature end to his/her successful career. These injuries are mostly caused by either underuse or overuse of muscles and joints.” BKS Iyengar
The body slowly gets distorted and loses its natural strength and alignment without a strong inner core. Yoga teaches that pain which is to come in the future can and should be avoided. Using age-old asana techniques, yoga develops the practitioner’s inner core which acts as an anchor to a stable and fit outer body.
