With the 2025 Masters just around the corner, golf enthusiasts worldwide are preparing to immerse themselves in the magic of Augusta.
For many golfers over 50, the Masters not only inspires but can also serve as a reminder of the importance of staying physically prepared to perform at their best. As a sports physiotherapist who works extensively with golfers in this age group, I’ve seen first-hand how paying attention to your body and not just your swing can significantly enhance both performance and enjoyment on the course. Here are my top three tips to get the most out of your golf this season.
1 Physical Preparation
Golf demands a unique blend of flexibility, strength, and balance. For older golfers, maintaining these physical attributes is essential to prevent injuries and improve consistency. Incorporating regular strength training, especially for the core and lower body, can enhance power and stability during swings. Flexibility exercises, such as yoga or dynamic stretching routines, can improve your range of motion, leading to smoother swings and reduced strain on joints. Even just 20-30 minutes of targeted exercises a few times a week can make a noticeable difference.
2 The Power of an Effective Warm-Up
Too many golfers neglect their warm-up, often heading straight to the first tee without preparing their bodies. This can lead to stiffness, reduced performance, and a higher risk of injury. A dynamic warm-up tailored to golf should include exercises that target the muscles and movements you’ll utilise on the course. By taking just 10 minutes to warm up, you can improve your mobility, increase blood flow, and step onto the course feeling ready to play your best. (Below you’ll find a link to my ‘Effective Warm Up for Golf’ video as part of my SwingFit essential online golf fitness program).
3 On-Course Nutrition
Nutrition is often overlooked but plays a vital role in sustaining energy and focus during a round of golf. For older golfers, maintaining stable energy levels is especially important. Start with a balanced meal that includes protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates a couple of hours before teeing off. During the round, stay hydrated and opt for snacks like bananas, nuts, or energy bars to keep your blood sugar steady. Avoid heavy or sugary foods that can lead to energy crashes. I always advise to make on course nutrition habitual, so aim to take on some fluids every time you put your putter back in the bag, and have something to eat on the 4th, 9th and 14th tees.
As the Masters approaches, let the performances of the world’s best golfers inspire you to elevate your own game. By focusing on physical preparation, warming up effectively, and fuelling your body correctly, you’ll not only enhance your performance but also make the game more enjoyable. After all, golf is a sport for life—and the better you feel, the better you’ll play.
Warm Up Video:
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Ed graduated from Birmingham University with an MSc in Physiotherapy in 2009.
He is an HCPC and CSP registered Physiotherapist who has worked in the NHS, private practice and in sport both in the UK and New Zealand, and he now specialises in working with people over the age of 50 who value their health and want to keep as active as possible for as long as possible.
In his spare time, you’ll find Ed spending time with his wife and two children, out running the local trails with his dog, or if he’s really lucky, out on the golf course.
Ed grew up in Stroud, the son of a local GP and he knows and loves the local communities in the Five Valleys and beyond. Being able to give back to the people of this wonderful part of the world is something that Ed considers a huge privilege.
For further information, visit Ed’s website by clicking HERE or Email: edvossphysio@gmail.com Call: 07542 940478
