When Was The Last Time You Played Golf?

Did you stop playing golf because of your arthritis?  Did you stop playing for other reasons and now your arthritis is worse than it was before?  We all have our different reasons or situations, but as arthritics, it is important to keep moving.  So, why not try going back to the sport you enjoyed?

Golfing is a great form of exercise.  You walk, swing, bend, strategize, etc.  Plus, you get to enjoy being outdoors while having a great time with your fellow golfers.  However, before you run out to the golf course, you need a game plan. 

The Arthritis Foundation has these suggestions:

• Always loosen up before you play. Begin by walking for a few minutes. Spend five to 10 minutes stretching, then take 10 to 15 swings on the practice range before the first tee. Easy practice swings, trunk twists, hamstring (rear thighs) stretches and walking are good warm-up exercises. Start out by hitting higher lofted clubs (like a pitching wedge) and begin by swinging 50 percent to 75 percent.
• Use tees whenever you hit the ball – even on the practice range – to avoid striking the ground and jarring your joints.
• Keep your tension on the shaft consistent. Be careful not to let your arms and trunk become too rigid.
• If you have back pain, you may find that the “classic” swing is more comfortable for you than the modern or reverse-C swing.
• Always brush through the grass so you will hit the ball solidly and carry your momentum out to the target.
• Play from the 150-yard markers if you begin to get tired.
• Consider using energy-saving techniques while you’re on the course. Take only the clubs you use most frequently. Pull your golf bag instead of carrying it, or rent a motorized cart instead of walking.

Golfing is a great sport, even for arthritics, if we take the proper precautions to minimize the effect on our joints. 

Check back tomorrow to see if you have the right equipment!