As the mountain winds down its ski season and with spring in the air, athletes turn their attention to hitting the greens.  As we know, the sport of golf is both simple and complex. It requires unique and efficient athletic attributes such as movement skills, speed, power, accuracy, and body control. I believe in the power of the functional movement assessment to identify mobility and motor control issues that prevent the golfer from optimizing their game. And lucky for you, Kim Mazik, PT of EmPower Concierge Physical Therapy in Hailey, is one of only 3 PTs certified in the state of Idaho to perform this invaluable assessment.

The Fundamental Four

Active Straight Leg Raise is the ability to disassociate the lower body with a stable upper body and pelvic control.
The Active Straight Leg Raise (ASLR) provides us with information on the athlete’s set-up, ability to load and extend their hips, and pelvic control. Being able to perform this pattern successfully will unlock the athlete’s ability to swing optimally, without pain.

Shoulder Mobility is the ability to disassociate the upper body from a stable lower body and pelvic control.
The Shoulder Mobility screen gives some unique insight into how the athlete’s upper body dissociates. If the athlete cannot disassociate in the golf swing, they will not be able to maximize their power expression. With limited shoulder mobility, this could lead to wrist, shoulder, neck, and elbow discomfort. Mobility is crucial in creating an effective backswing without overextending the spine and coming over the top in the swing.

Trunk Stability Push-Ups is the ability to maintain midline stability with dynamic movement.
The Trunk Stability Push-Up (TPSU) is necessary to express power in the golf swing. We could liken the TSPU to the transmission in a car. It is the pattern that allows us to put force into the ground and transition that energy back into the golf club.

Rotary Stability Screen is the ability to maintain stability without rotation of the pelvis and midline.
Rotary Stability enables the athlete the ability to create elastic energy between the upper and lower body. If the athlete can do this well, they will be able to create the energy to deliver an explosive rubber band effect. If they are not able to perform this screen to acceptable standards determined by research, the athlete will struggle.

For one to be a great golfer, the athlete must not only have good joint/ tissue flexibility and motor control but must coordinate these ultimately to move well. Take a look at some progressions that were implemented to optimize this professional golfer’s performance.

Get ahead of the golf season now! By screening and identifying early, we’ll have you playing in top form for spring rounds.
Call now for an appointment: 208-309-0281