CHECK-UP:I HAVE often heard it said that swimming can have a detrimental effect on a golfer's swing because of the use of different muscles in each sport. Is there any truth to this, or is it just an excuse used by golfers to explain the collapse of their game at the weekend?, asks MARION KERR
As someone who once got banned from a pitch and putt course for taking a golf shot and who sinks like a stone in water, I can claim no practical experience of the effects of swimming on golf or visa versa. However, there may be some truth to what you have heard.
It appears that there are many positive benefits of swimming for those who also play golf. Swimming can increase exercise tolerance both on and off the course and, as a non-weight bearing exercise, it has a low impact on joints.
In addition, by using a variety of swimming strokes it can promote good trunk rotation and shoulder girdle stability. As water provides resistance, the activity can strengthen muscles, including those used to swing a golf club.
So how can swimming impact negatively on a golfer’s swing?
Because the overhead arm movements used in swimming can affect the pattern of movements needed to play golf, it is not recommended that you swim immediately prior to teeing off. In addition, as different swimming strokes and styles utilise different muscle groups, routinely using just one stroke can lead to overuse or injury to specific muscles and ligaments.
Strokes that use forward propulsion through the water are largely dependent on the arm and shoulder muscles. As a result, these muscles may become vulnerable to repeated use and suffer damage.
The butterfly or front crawl can increase tightness in the muscle called the pectoralis major, while in the breast stroke, the ligaments in the knee can suffer due to their position in relation to the hip during the kick-off phase. Swimming for extended periods can lead to fatigue which, in turn, can result in compensating movements and poor muscle co-ordination.
To avoid problems, swimming lengths should be broken up with stretching exercises and strokes should be varied. It’s important to monitor fatigue levels and make sure to use the correct techniques for each swimming style. If in any doubt, consult a qualified chartered physiotherapist with an expertise in the area of sports for advice.