Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine

Original Article: J Korean Acad Rehabil Med. 2007;31(6):767-771.; Effects of Stretching Exercise on the Head Speed of Golf Club and Driving Distance.; Kim, Young gene , Kim, Mi Jung , Na, Woong chil , Park, Si Bog , Jang, Seong Ho; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Korea. systole77@hanmail.net

Abstract: Objective
To evaluate the effects of stretching exercise on the head speed of golf club and driving distance. Method: 58 male golfers (20 professionals, 22 amateurs, 16 beginners) were included in the study. They carried out stretching exercise programs related to muscles of trunk, upper and lower extremities for 5 and 30 minutes. The head speed of golf club and driving distance were measured before and after the stretching exercise. The effects of stretching exercise programs on the head speed and driving distance were assessed. Results: The head speed increased significantly in amateur and beginner groups after 30 minutes' stretching. In professional group, the head speed increased significantly after 5 minutes' stretching, but no more increment was found after 30 minutes' stretching. Driving distance increased significantly in all groups after 5 minutes' stretching. After 30 minutes' stretching, much more increment was found compared to 5 minutes' stretching.Conclusion: Sufficient stretching exercise program before golf swing can increase the head speed of club and driving distance. We recommend stretching exercise to improve golf performance. (J Korean Acad Rehab Med 2007; 31: 767- 771)

Keywords :Stretching exercise, Head speed of golf club, Driving distance