Have you noticed that you do not have as much flexibility on the course as you would like? Or, maybe you have noticed that you are not getting as much distance on your swing that you would prefer. Many people do not realize that the reason for this can be the tension in your neck, which can directly correlate with your ability to be successful during a game of golf. By regularly stretching your neck, you are not only improving flexibility overall, but you are also ensuring that it is loose enough to properly swing. Lacking neck flexibility can drastically affect your distance, swing, and ultimately your game. Not only that, but a constant stiff neck can affect your back and cause major pain, and even give you chronic headaches.
In order for you to have a great back swing, you must be able to rotate your body successfully and fully. If you are unable to rotate your body, especially your neck, your swing will be affected, and you will also be risking injury. With a proper neck rotation, you can ensure that your swings are consistent and efficient. Although many strive to get as long of a distance as they can, it is important to remember that your shoulder rotation comes first – if you cannot hit the ball consistently and strongly with a proper shoulder rotation, you will not achieve a long distance anyways.
Here are some ways on how you can stretch your neck and make sure that you are releasing any tension.
Ensure your posture is strong.
First off, focus on your posture. Your posture is important because it will allow for your spinal flexibility to be intact, which ultimately affects your neck. You can work on your posture by practicing yoga poses such as a seated spinal twist or a cobra stretch, which specifically focuses on strengthening your neck.
Forward and back tilt.
One of the most popular stretches for the neck is the forward and backward tilt, in which you can start with your head over your shoulders and repeatedly lower your chin toward your chest and slowly lift your head back up. During this stretch it is important that you hold each position for 15-30 seconds, so you are ensuring you get a deep stretch. You can repeat this as many times as it feels good for you!
Roll your shoulders.
While this can be done sitting down, it is best for you to roll your shoulders while you are standing up with great posture. To successfully roll your shoulders, raise your shoulders up and move them in a circular, forward motion. Do this movement a few times, and then repeat the same motion going backwards.
Side tilt.
When you are side tilting, it is also best to be standing up, ensuring that you have good posture and that your feet are hip width apart. During the side tilt, tilt your head toward your right shoulder and slowly try to touch your ear to your shoulder. When you start to feel the stretch, stop, and hold for a few seconds – and make sure that you are not raising your shoulder up! Once you do this a few times, repeat the same motions on the other side.
These stretches can easily be done anytime, anywhere! Try your best to incorporate these neck stretches into your daily routine every day. After you commit to these stretches each day, over time, you will definitely notice drastic changes in your flexibility, and ultimately, you will see this directly impact your game!
