This week I would like to address everyone who participates in a sport that requires some type of rotation. A few examples would be golf, tennis, and baseball. All these sports require aggressive rotation of the spine and hips. The two unique factors all these sports have is that you have to be mobile and stable in order to have an efficient swing. For years now it has been hammered into our heads that if you are a golfer and do core work you increase your rotation and stabilize your swing. Which is somewhat true, however when you have limitations (tightness) in your thoracic spine (mid back) or your hip it won’t matter how many crunches you do, your swing results will be the same.

At some point you have to address the mobility factor—Lack of mobility can be caused by inflexibility, scar tissue, or possible compensation factors.  One of the best ways we can address this is by utilizing a foam roller. This can be used like a self massage you can run it up your back and down your legs. While it can be uncomfortable at times, the rule of thumb is the more it hurts the more you need it. Fibrotic tissue (hard tissue) is what you want to concentrate on, your goal is to make your muscles as elastic as possible. Elastic muscles are athletic muscles and they will respond and fire on command. Follow the foam roller up with a consistent stretching routine and you are well on your way to mobile more stable body.

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Rick Lademann

Sports Performance Coach

http://www.go2beyondmotion.com