The shoulders play a key role in the golf swing—not just propelling it, but also STOPPING it. It's that second part that people take for granted. One of the keys to avoiding injuries to the shoulders is to complete the swing. Let some of that energy generated through impact dissipate naturally. Think of how sprinters pass through the finish line of a race. They don't just stop. They keep going. If you cut off your swing, your shoulders have to apply the brakes stressfully. That can result in pulls and tears to the soft tissue around the socket.
It's important to warm up the shoulder muscles before you play. PGA Tour trainer Dave Herman (@athletestrainin) recommends you keep a looped stretch band in your golf bag and use it before to prepare the shoulders before you play.
Click on the video below to see him demonstrate how.
Ron Kaspriske is the fitness editor of Golf Digest.*
(Photo by Getty Images)
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