The CSGA Links Volume 5 Issue 3 July, 2017 | Page 15

C-Posture S-Posture Neutral C and S postures both have negative effects on a player’s game and health, however, neutral posture is ideal. In neutral posture, the golfer has a nice flat back, without too much arch in the back, or too much bend in the mid-back. This posture allows golfers’ thoracic spine to optimally rotate and keep the lumbar spine out of an extended position, keeping their back in a safer position during the swing. Simple drills can help you improve poor posture. To begin, put down a mat and lie on your back with your hands under the arch of your low back. First, try to arch your back as high as you can while keeping your hips on the mat. After that, try to flatten your back as much as you can by pushing your low back into your hands. Make sure when you do this to keep your hips flat on the floor. Next, arch your back again as high as it can go. Finally from here, bring your back midway between the two extremes of being fully flat or arched. Hold this position for 5 seconds and note the position. This is your neutral pelvic position and is the position you should be in while addressing the ball. Once you learn where your neutral pelvic position is, you should practice staying in it at address in your golf swing. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but once you are able to do this, then you can expect to see more distance in your game and reduce any symptoms of back soreness or tightness. If you have any further questions in regards to golf-specific physical therapy or golf specific performance training, feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] or visit my website www.theGolfDPT.com. Also please check out my instagram, where golf-specific exercises are posted regularly! @thegolfdpt @thegolfdpt www.csgalinks.org [email protected] CSGA Links // July, 2017 | 15