Core Stretch: Standing Twist with Club

Golfers who want to begin an exercise program that helps their golf game should choose exercises that are specifically beneficial to an efficient golf swing.

The core is a critical area for the golfer. Your core range of motion dictates how big a backswing you'll be able to make, resulting in a higher level of clubhead speed and distance.

The Standing Twist with Club is a rotational stretching exercise that benefits the golfer's core. As such, it is an excellent exercise for any golfer to incorporate into his or her stretching routine.

How to do the Standing Twist with Club:

• Hold club chest high, arms straight out in front, with grip shoulder-width apart.
• While keeping feet and hips fairly stable, rotate club to the right (as in photo) and then the left.
• Try to breathe out on every turn to release tension.
• Repeat each side 10 times.

Go slow with any exercise you have not performed in the past. Check with your physician before undertaking any new physical training program.