Toe Touch and Spine Posture Stability
At FitGolf Performance Centers throughout the nation we periodically conduct research studies to study how the body influences the golf swing. One of studies examined the Toe Touch movement and how the inability to complete an adequate toe touch affects the golf swing.
The Toe Touch Test:
To do the Toe Touch Test, stand with your feet together and knees straight. Now, try to touch your toes without your knees bending. Based off my experience I’ll venture to say that many of you cannot get to the toes without bending your knees. This is a problem for your golf game.
In our research study “Toe Touch and Spine Posture Stability”, we examined the implications of not being able to touch your toes. Based on observations, we predicted that not being able to touch your toes will create challenges with maintaining posture through the golf swing.
In our study we tested 100 golfers to prove our hypothesis. We asked each participant to perform the toe touch test. Following the test, we assessed their body movement in the swing with the use of 3D Sensor Technology.
We were able to determine that there was statistical significance to suggest that golfers who could touch their toes maintain posture better than golfers who can’t touch their toes. The implication: you can be a more consistent golfer if you can touch your toes!
The Toe Touch Fix:
So you can’t touch your toes. How do you fix it?
A lack of hamstring flexibility is common, but it might not be the only reason you can’t touch your toes. Often, poor core strength leads to tight and overactive hamstrings. To improve your mobility, focus on both hamstring flexibility AND core strength. Try out the following exercises:
If you try these exercises and you find them to be too challenging or uncomfortable, do not continue, until you have consulted with your physician. All exercises for golf should be customized to your needs after a proper evaluation.
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Want to take your golf to the next level? Our FitGolf® Trainers are experts at working one-on-one with you to tailor a training program to meet the specific needs of your body and help you achieve the results you are hoping to see in your golf.
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