Golf looks gentle until you count the swings. Each one is a big, fast turn in the same direction, and it comes out smoother when your hips, back, chest and shoulders move well. That’s what we work on in our Stretch & Recovery class at our Lewisham studio.
What golf asks of your body
A golf swing rotates hard to one side, through your hips, back, chest and shoulders, round after round. You rarely turn the other way with anything like the same effort, and the time in between is spent walking or bending over the ball.
Your spine has four main movements: bending forward, bending back, bending to the side and rotating. Golf leans heavily on one of those, mostly in one direction.
What better mobility does for your swing
Your hips, back, chest and shoulders all turn on every shot. If they can’t turn far enough, you can’t get into the positions good technique asks for, however many lessons you’ve had, and your body makes up the difference somewhere else. The better they move, the smoother your swing.
How we work on it in class
Stretch & Recovery slows everything down after all those fast turns. It’s a deep stretching class with longer holds, and we use the reformer as a tool: the springs and carriage support you into each position, the resistance stays light and nothing is forced. Your teacher guides you through it with clear, breath-led cues and gives you an easier and a deeper option for every position.
For golfers, that means opening your hips, chest and shoulders, moving your spine through all four directions, and working both sides evenly.
How often should you come?
If you’re starting out and mobility is what you’re after, we’d begin with two classes a week and build from there. They’re a good fit for a day away from the course, whatever your handicap, and you don’t need any reformer experience to join in.
If it’s more than tightness
If you’re working through an injury, or pain that isn’t going away, have a word with your GP or physio first, and tell your teacher at the start of class. They’ll cue you towards the options that suit you.
Come and try it
Our intro offer is three classes for £33 over fourteen days, and it works on every class on the timetable. Bring grip socks (we sell them at the studio if you forget). The door opens fifteen minutes before class, so there’s time to settle in.