Why "Stretching More" Won't Fix Your Golf Flexibility Issues (And What Will)

If you’ve been stretching your hamstrings, shoulders, and back for months — but your golf swing still feels tight and restricted — you’re not alone.

A lot of golfers assume that more stretching automatically leads to better flexibility and better golf performance.

But here’s the truth: stretching alone won’t solve most golf mobility problems. In fact, focusing only on stretching could be the reason you’re stuck.

Let’s break down why — and what you should actually focus on if you want real results on the course.

Why Stretching Isn't Enough for Golf Mobility

Golf is a dynamic, athletic movement. It requires controlled mobility, strength through range, and coordination between joints — not just passive flexibility.

Here’s why stretching falls short:

• Stretching only improves passive range.Just because you can touch your toes after stretching doesn't mean you can control your hips during a golf swing.

• Muscles feel tight for protective reasons.Often, muscles tighten up because of underlying weakness, instability, or poor movement patterns — not because they’re truly "short."

• You’re not teaching your body how to use new range.Even if you gain a little flexibility, it won't transfer to your golf swing unless you actively train strength and control in those new positions.

This is why many golfers stretch daily but still feel stiff, restricted, or sore after rounds.

Common Golf Flexibility Problems Stretching Won’t Fix

If you’ve been stuck in the stretching cycle, you might notice:

• Tight hamstrings that never seem to loosen up

• A backswing that feels restricted despite shoulder stretches

• Persistent lower back tightness or soreness after playing

• Difficulty loading into your trail hip during the swing

• Losing balance or posture during your downswing

These issues point to deeper problems like poor joint stability, weak core muscles, or inefficient movement patterns — not just a "need to stretch more."

What You Need Instead: Active Mobility + Stability

If you want golf flexibility that actually helps your swing, you need to train mobility and strength together.

Here’s the formula we use at Chippewa Valley Movement:

1. Active Mobility Training

Move your joints through full ranges of motion while engaging muscles to control the movement.

✅ Example: Hip CARs (Controlled Articular Rotations) for hip mobility control

✅ Example: Thoracic spine rotations with band resistance

2. Strength in New Ranges

Strengthen your body in the ranges you want to use during your swing.

✅ Example: Deep split squats for hip control

✅ Example: Cable rotation exercises for thoracic and core strength

3. Integrated Movement Drills

Put it all together with golf-specific movement patterns.

✅ Example: Step-back lunges with torso rotation

✅ Example: Medicine ball rotational throws

The Payoff: Better Swing, Less Pain, Longer Career

When you train mobility and strength properly:

• Your backswing and follow-through become smoother and easier

• You generate more effortless power

• You maintain better posture and balance throughout your swing

• You significantly lower your risk for golf injuries like back pain, hip strain, and shoulder impingement

In short: you don’t just move looser — you move better.

Ready to Break Free from the Stretching Cycle?

At Chippewa Valley Movement, we help golfers in Eau Claire and the surrounding Chippewa Valley unlock real, functional mobility that translates to better golf — not just temporary flexibility.

If you’re tired of stretching with no real results, it’s time for a different approach.

👉 Click here to request a Free Discovery Visit and find out how we can help you move better, swing stronger, and play pain-free this season.

Owner Dr. Abe Skaw DC