Category: Wellness

Group Fitness – Restorative Yoga

IN CLUB

Restorative yoga is a restful practice that encourages you to slow down and open your body through passive stretching. Some restorative yoga classes have participants barely moving, holding only a few postures.

Restorative yoga is a completely different experience than most other styles of yoga. Read on to learn more about restorative yoga, and why it’s so critical for your body and mind to slow down and embrace the power of rest.

Class Category: Yoga & Wellness

Studio: Sky Studio

Class Length: 60 Minutes

This is a unique blend of stretching, movement, and breath combined with a relaxing environment to promote the natural healing process. Includes 15 minutes of Savasana at the end of each class.

Story Credit: Jayde Kabeya, National Manager, Group Fitness Education & Kasia Kudzma, Yoga Lead & Education Specialist

As leaders in Group Fitness, we offer a wide range of classes for all levels, with up to 200 live classes per week. Included in all memberships, our in-person live group fitness classes are led by certified instructors in our purpose-built boutique studios. Join our supportive fitness community and discover the strength within you. Let’s move with MOVATI!

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

*MOVATI’s trainers and/or consultants are not health care providers, and do not provide any medical diagnosis, treatment or advice, and any trainer and/or consultant tips are not intended to replace the advice of a health care professional.

How does exercise improve our mental health?

FITNESS

The fitness industry has for long focused on the physical benefits of consistent exercise, such as increased muscle mass, endurance, improved cardiovascular health and other metabolic effects.

However, an often overlooked, but equally significant, area of improvement most regular gym-goers report is improved mental health. So, is this really the case and why does it occur?

Improved Sleep

It’s well known that sleep and mood are closely related. You probably notice in yourself what a difference a good night’s sleep can make in the way you carry yourself and in your interactions with others.

And the great part about exercise is that it can improve your sleep quality! If you have trouble falling asleep you may be surprised by what exercise can do to help improve this part of your life. The effects of good sleep will slowly trickle into all areas of your life and help you be the best version of yourself.

Social Interaction

Have you noticed working out from home just isn’t quite the same? It may be because part of the positive effects that come from being around other people!

Even if you don’t engage in conversation with other members or staff, a simple “hi” as you walk through the doors, a smile from a stranger or asking how many more sets someone has left on a machine all add up and play a part in keeping us feel part of a community. This feeling of togetherness and belonging is a core element of good “mental hygiene.”

Stress relief

Stressful day at work? An exercise session may be just what you need to put a pause or even a full stop on the cycle of negative thoughts running through your mind. It is a time to focus on yourself, both mentally and physically.

Putting a halt to the cycle of negative thoughts and feelings allows us to process them and turn a new leaf. Once we are able to work through the short term emotions we can approach life’s problems in a better frame of mind which, in turn, supports long term mental health!

Boost Self-Esteem

What feels better than reaching a goal? The gym gives us the tools and space to achieve quantifiable goals, both big and small. Sometimes life gets in the way of our emotional well-being but coming into the gym and seeing that you’re getting stronger or moving faster can act as a catalyst for a better day, week or month.

Our self-esteem is how we view ourselves and so making time for our physical and mental health tell your brain that you matter most and are capable of achieving your dreams even outside of MOVATI’s walls.

So, how much do you need?

The recommendations are to set aside about 30 minutes in your day, 3-5 times a week to notice improvements in mental health, particularly with anxiety and depression. Even if you can’t make it into the gym 3-5 times a week, pairing gym workouts with outdoor walks and leisurely activity can also help you reap the benefits.

Story Credit: Milad Emadi, Director, Performance Coaching , MOVATI Athletic

 

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

*MOVATI’s trainers and/or consultants are not health care providers, and do not provide any medical diagnosis, treatment or advice, and any trainer and/or consultant tips are not intended to replace the advice of a health care professional.

Group Fitness – Hot Hatha & Hatha Yoga

IN CLUB

Hatha yoga is a foundational style emphasizing physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation, while Hot Hatha is a variation of Hatha yoga practiced in a heated environment, typically around 38-42 degrees, often with a more dynamic routine. 

Hot Hatha

Class Category: Yoga

Studio: Hot Studio

Class Length: 60 Minutes

Hot Yoga uses heat as a powerful detoxifying element to positively impact the body throughout the practice. The class grows through breath work, standing and balancing static postures and floor work to stretch the muscles and connective tissue. Each posture is held for long enough that a student can find themselves in it and build both strength and ease while there. This class serves anyone who loves the intensity of the heat and a strong, peaceful practice. Please bring your Yoga mat. A strap and block(s) are also welcome.

Hatha

Class Category: Yoga

Studio: Sky Studio

Class Length: 60 Minutes

The class grows through breath work, standing and balancing static postures and floor work to stretch the muscles and connective tissue. Each posture is held for long enough that a student can find themselves in it and build both strength and ease while there. This class serves anyone who loves a strong, peaceful practice. Please bring your Yoga mat. A strap and block(s) are also welcome.

Story Credit: Jayde Kabeya, National Manager, Group Fitness Education & Kasia Kudzma, Yoga Lead & Education Specialist

As leaders in Group Fitness, we offer a wide range of classes for all levels, with up to 200 live classes per week. Included in all memberships, our in-person live group fitness classes are led by certified instructors in our purpose-built boutique studios. Join our supportive fitness community and discover the strength within you. Let’s move with MOVATI!

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

*MOVATI’s trainers and/or consultants are not health care providers, and do not provide any medical diagnosis, treatment or advice, and any trainer and/or consultant tips are not intended to replace the advice of a health care professional.

Group Fitness – Yin & Hot Yin Yoga

IN CLUB

Yin yoga is a style of yoga that focuses on holding poses for longer periods (3-5 minutes or more), targeting the deeper connective tissues, fascia, ligaments, joints, and bone. 

Hot Yin yoga combines the principles of Yin yoga, focusing on holding poses for extended periods to release deep tissues, with the practice of yoga in a heated room, aiming to increase circulation and promote relaxation. 

Yin

Class Category: Yoga

Studio: Sky Studio

Class Length: 60 – 75 Minutes

A deeply healing, grounding practice where postures are held for extended periods of time. Students learn to lean into gravity to elicit decompression of connective tissue and release physical and energetic blockages. Taught in the heat the practice facilitates detoxifying and deep stretching, taught in a cooler room and the practice facilitates structural change. Beneficial for every shape, size and level of activity from triathlete to newbie, first time to fierce Yogi. Please bring your Yoga mat. A strap and block(s) are also welcome.

Hot Yin

Class Category: Yoga

Studio: Hot Studio

Class Length: 60 – 75 Minutes

Hot Yoga uses heat as a powerful detoxifying element to positively impact the body throughout the practice. A deeply healing, grounding practice where postures are held for extended periods of time. Students learn to lean into gravity to elicit decompression of connective tissue and release physical and energetic blockages. Taught in the heat the practice facilitates detoxifying and deep stretching, taught in a cooler room and the practice facilitates structural change. Beneficial for every shape, size and level of activity from triathlete to newbie, first time to fierce Yogi. Please bring your Yoga mat. A strap and block(s) are also welcome.

Story Credit: Jayde Kabeya, National Manager, Group Fitness Education & Kasia Kudzma, Yoga Lead & Education Specialist

As leaders in Group Fitness, we offer a wide range of classes for all levels, with up to 200 live classes per week. Included in all memberships, our in-person live group fitness classes are led by certified instructors in our purpose-built boutique studios. Join our supportive fitness community and discover the strength within you. Let’s move with MOVATI!

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

*MOVATI’s trainers and/or consultants are not health care providers, and do not provide any medical diagnosis, treatment or advice, and any trainer and/or consultant tips are not intended to replace the advice of a health care professional.

MOVATI ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE STRETCH

WELLNESS

Unlock Your Full Potential with Performance Stretch

Formerly known as Fascial  Stretch Therapy (FST), Performance Stretch can help you move better, recover faster and perform stronger.

Recent research highlights the benefits of Performance Stretch in improving flexibility, mobility, and recovery. Unlike traditional stretching, it targets both muscles and fascia—the connective tissue that supports movement—allowing for deeper, more effective results.

Why Performance Stretch?

 Enhanced Mobility & Flexibility – Increases range of motion, helping you move with greater ease and efficiency.

Injury Prevention – Releases tightness and imbalances, reducing the risk of strains, sprains, and compensatory movement patterns.

Faster Recovery – Improves circulation and lymphatic drainage to flush out toxins and reduce soreness.

Optimized Performance – Enhances force transmission in the body, leading to stronger, more efficient movements.

Perfect for All Levels – Whether you’re an athlete or just looking to move pain-free, Performance Stretch helps unlock your body’s potential.

Key Benefits for Different Audiences

Athletes & Active Individuals

  • Enhances speed, agility, and coordination by improving fascial elasticity.
  • Reduces recovery time, allowing for consistent high-performance training.
  • Prevents common sports injuries by improving alignment and mobility.

Everyday Movers & Fitness Enthusiasts

  • Relieves muscle tightness and stiffness from daily activities or prolonged sitting.
  • Supports better posture and joint health, reducing aches and discomfort.
  • Increases flexibility without the discomfort of static stretching.

Aging Population & Injury Recovery

  • Improves circulation and joint function, reducing stiffness and enhancing mobility.
  • Helps maintain independence by preserving movement quality and flexibility.
  • Supports recovery from past injuries by restoring balance and range of motion.

Why Choose Performance Stretch Over Traditional Stretching?

Active, Assisted Stretching – A certified coach guides your body through stretches for deeper, more effective results.

Targets Fascia & Muscles – Works beyond the muscles, improving full-body movement patterns.

Immediate & Lasting Results – Many clients feel an instant improvement in flexibility and mobility after just one session.

Take advantage of a complimentary Performance Stretch demo during the month of March and experience the benefits firsthand.

Book your session today!

Story Credit: Milad Emadi, Director, Performance Coaching , MOVATI Athletic

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming and improve your mobility and recovery by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

Source Links: 

Biomechanical, Healing and Therapeutic Effects of Stretching: A Comprehensive Review

Fascial Stretch Therapy: Unlocking Flexibility & Vitality | Baron Active

Fascial or Muscle Stretching? A Narrative Review

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324200361_An_investigation_into_the_effect_of_fascial_stretch_therapy_on_movement_performance_indicators_joint_range_of_motion_strength_power_and_proprioception_among_an_athletic_population

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10831376/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://repository.arizona.edu/bitstream/handle/10150/641590/SP_2020_Ayotunde_Thesis.pdf?isAllowed=y&sequence=7&utm_source=chatgpt.com

Tips for Preparing Your Body for Spring Sports

FITNESS

Spring is just around the corner, and for many athletes, that means it’s time to gear up for spring sports. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to the game, it’s crucial to prepare your body for the demands of the upcoming season.

Our Performance Coaches will help you explore the importance of preparing your body for spring sports, common injuries to watch out for, various physical conditioning techniques, strength training exercises, flexibility and mobility exercises, and injury prevention strategies.

By following these essential tips, you can ensure that you are ready to perform at your best and minimize the risk of injuries.

 

Importance of Preparing Your Body for Spring Sports

Preparing your body for spring sports is vital for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps you avoid injuries. When your body is properly conditioned and prepared, it is better able to handle the physical demands of the sport. Second, proper preparation enhances your performance. Focusing on conditioning, strength training, and flexibility can improve your speed, agility, and overall athletic ability.

Additionally, preparing your body for spring sports allows you to ease into the season gradually. If you jump straight into intense training or competition without prior preparation, you may experience muscle soreness, fatigue, or even overuse injuries. Taking the time to prepare your body helps minimize the risk of these issues and allows you to enjoy sports to the fullest.

 

Common Injuries in Spring Sports

Before diving into the various ways to prepare your body for spring sports, it’s essential to be aware of the common injuries associated with these activities. Different sports carry different risks, but some injuries are prevalent across the board. Sprains, strains, and overuse injuries are among the most common. These can occur due to sudden movements, inadequate warm-up, or repetitive motions.

Additionally, concussions and other head injuries are a concern in contact sports like soccer and lacrosse. It’s crucial to be mindful of the signs and symptoms of concussions and seek medical attention if necessary. Other common injuries include fractures, dislocations, and muscle tears. Understanding the risks and taking preventive measures can go a long way in reducing the likelihood of these injuries.

 

Physical Conditioning for Athletics

Physical conditioning is crucial for preparing your body for spring sports. It involves improving your cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, and overall stamina. One effective way to achieve this is through aerobic exercises. Running, cycling, swimming, or using the elliptical machine are great cardiovascular exercises that can help improve your endurance and stamina.

In addition to aerobic exercises, incorporating interval training into your routine can be highly beneficial. Interval training involves alternating between high-intensity bursts of exercise and periods of rest or lower intensity. This type of training helps improve your anaerobic capacity, which is essential for sports that require quick bursts of energy, such as sprinting or jumping.

 

Strength Training Exercises for Spring Sports

Strength training is another crucial component of preparing your body for spring sports. It helps build muscle strength, power, and stability, which are essential for optimal athletic performance. Some effective strength training exercises include squats, lunges, deadlifts, push-ups, pull-ups, and planks.

When designing your strength training routine, it’s important to target the muscles and movements specific to your sport. For example, if you play baseball, focusing on exercises that strengthen your core, arms, and legs can greatly enhance your performance.

Flexibility and Mobility Exercises

Flexibility and mobility are often overlooked but crucial aspects of preparing your body for spring sports. They help improve your range of motion, joint stability, and overall movement efficiency. Dynamic stretching exercises, which involve moving your body through a full range of motion, are particularly beneficial for warming up and preparing your muscles for activity.

Incorporating exercises that target specific muscle groups and joints can also help improve flexibility and mobility. For example, yoga or Pilates can be excellent options for enhancing overall flexibility and core strength. Additionally, incorporating exercises that focus on hip mobility, shoulder mobility, and ankle mobility can be particularly helpful for athletes participating in sports like soccer, basketball, or tennis.

 

Injury Prevention Strategies

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of injuries, there are several strategies you can implement to minimize the likelihood of getting injured during spring sports. Firstly, always warm up before any physical activity. A proper warm-up should include dynamic stretching, light aerobic exercises, and sport-specific movements to prepare your body for the upcoming activity.

Secondly, listen to your body and pay attention to any pain or discomfort. Pushing through pain can lead to more severe injuries. If you experience any persistent pain or notice any changes in your body, it’s essential to seek medical attention and take the necessary steps to prevent further damage.

Lastly, prioritize rest and recovery. Your body needs time to repair and regenerate after intense physical activity. Make sure to incorporate rest days into your training schedule and get enough sleep each night. Proper nutrition and hydration are also crucial for optimal recovery and injury prevention.

 

Conclusion

Preparing your body for spring sports is a crucial step in ensuring a successful and injury-free season. By understanding the importance of preparation, being aware of common injuries, and implementing physical conditioning, strength training, flexibility and mobility exercises, and injury prevention strategies, you can set yourself up for success. Remember to always listen to your body, seek professional guidance if needed, and prioritize rest and recovery. With these essential tips in mind, you’ll be ready to hit the field or court with confidence and perform at your best.

 

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming and improve your mobility and recovery by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

 

*MOVATI’s trainers and/or consultants are not health care providers, and do not provide any medical diagnosis, treatment or advice, and any trainer and/or consultant tips are not intended to replace the advice of a health care professional.

Crush Your 2025 Fitness Resolution This New Year with These 10 Tips

FITNESS

Is regular physical activity one of your 2025 New Year’s Resolutions? Has it also been a resolution in the past, only for your motivation to fizzle out until you stopped doing it completely? We understand, and that’s why we are sharing these amazing tips to help keep you motivated not just for a few weeks or months but for a year and longer — so that this same goal doesn’t end up on your next resolutions list.

Doing regular physical activity is a great way to improve your health and mood. Once you start doing it, you’ll be surprised at how easily your other problems (like dull skin, fatigue, bloating, stress, brain fog, etc.) disappear! So, it’s no surprise when regular gym-goers claim exercise to be one of the best ways to improve your physical and mental well-being.

However, despite the many benefits of physical activity, many find it difficult to stick to it in the long run. Continue reading to learn how to make exercising fun and stay motivated to workout in 2025!

  1. Plan A Routine — plan it, slay it, make it a habit.

The first step to success is planning a workout, whether it’s a yoga class, stretching and strengthening at MOVATI

  • Plan your workouts a week in advance: Write your weekly workout schedule on your calendar, stick a note on your fridge, set a reminder on your phone – anything to help you remember.
  • Schedule a time that works for you: Figure out a time that works best for you. Perhaps it’s when your gym is empty, and you can work out in peace, or maybe you like the evening crowd or the morning rush before work.
  • Create a routine: Your workouts should be like brushing your teeth; it’s something you just do! Try not to think of it as hard work. Tell people about what you’re doing or practice with a friend or family member for peer support.
  • Edit as you go: As you progress, you can play around with the frequency, intensity, time, or type of exercise. For example, after two weeks of jogging for 10 minutes a day, you can increase it to 20 minutes.

  1. Listen To Your Body — pain is a red flag, not a vibe

If, on a scale of 1-10, you feel your pain rise above a 4, then slow down or stop completely. Though it’s normal to feel soreness or muscle tension during strenuous exercise, especially when starting out, you must recognize whether or not the pain is good or bad.

If the pain is sharp, then stop and relax. If it lasts more than 24 hours, see a health professional. Don’t push through the pain; instead, adjust your routine to find the frequency and level that’s right for you.

  1. Set Your Goals — one step closer every single day

When starting out, you should set simple, attainable goals and then work your way up to longer-range goals. Remember to make all your goals realistic and achievable, even the long-term ones. If you don’t, you may get frustrated and give up when you’re unable to meet your goals.

  1. Let It Be Fun — turn your workout into a party

Find sports or activities you enjoy and then change up your routine to keep you on your toes. If you don’t enjoy exercise, try some of our many group fitness classes. You can also consider joining a sports league.

  1. Join Forces with Friends or Others — friends who sweat together, stick together

You are not alone. Invite your friends to join you in your workouts. Exercise with your loved ones. Play sports with your kids. Join our group fitness classes like yoga or spin. This can motivate you to show up daily.

  1. Reward Yourself — hit your goals, get your gifts.

After each exercise, take a few minutes to enjoy the feeling that exercise gives you. This type of intrinsic reward can help you make a long-term commitment to regular exercise. External rewards can also help. Upon reaching a bigger goal, treat yourself to a new pair of sports shoes or new clothes.

  1. Be Competitive — your competition: yesterday’s you

Always remember, it’s not others you are competing with! It’s yesterday’s version of you. Today, you are motivated and enthusiastic!

So, whether you’re aiming to place high in the marathon or just want to beat your personal records, add a competitive element to your workouts to boost your motivation. You can also share your milestones on social media, and some of your friends may even join you for a friendly competition.

  1. Take Time To Rest — rest is progress in disguise

We live in a go-go-go era. But our bodies need rest to repair the muscles that have been broken down during exercise. So, while it’s important to stick to your workout regime on a regular basis, it is equally important to allow yourself at least a day’s rest to recover and come back stronger.

  1. Put It On Paper — write your goals, see your growth

Hoping to lose weight? Boost your energy? Sleep better? Manage a chronic condition? Write down your goals! Seeing the benefits of regular exercise and writing down your goals can help you stay motivated by reminding you why you’re doing it.

You can also have an exercise journal where you note down what you do in every exercise, the duration you exercise, and how you feel afterwards. By writing down your efforts and observing the changes, you will realize your objectives and remind yourself that you are making progress.

  1. Include Physical Activity In Your Daily Routine — sneak in fitness all day long.

If it’s hard to find time to exercise, don’t start making excuses. Plan your workouts as you would any other important activity; you just need to prioritize your own fitness.

You can also engage in physical activity throughout the day by taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Take a walk during a break from work. Pedal the stationary bike or do jumping jacks while watching TV at night. Every little step counts.

The Final Say

Losing motivation to work out is a common obstacle, but you can overcome it with the right strategies and simple tips. By revisiting your goals, finding your why, mixing up your routine, and surrounding yourself with support, you can ignite your passion for fitness. Remember to stay positive, focus on enjoyment and reward yourself for your efforts. Every step you take brings you closer to a healthier and happier you this New Year!

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with this Special Offer. Already a member? Get customized programming and improve your mobility and recovery by consulting with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

*MOVATI’s trainers and/or consultants are not health care providers, and do not provide any medical diagnosis, treatment or advice, and any trainer and/or consultant tips are not intended to replace the advice of a health care professional.

Try It Tuesday June 2024 – Youth Programs

FITNESS

Attention all MOVATI Athletic members,

For the entire month of June, our Try It Tuesday theme will be centered around Youth Development Programs (ages 8-13).

Each club will be offering two different programs:

  • MOVATI Youth: Development Programs

Week 1: Foundational Movements

Week 2-3: Nutrition Basics & Skill Development

Week 4-5: Strength Development

Week 6-7: Conditioning

Week 8: Core

  • MOVATI Athlete: High Performance Programs

Week 1: Baseline Testing & Assessment

Week 2-3: Nutrition Basics & Strength Development

Week 4-5: Speed & Agility

Week 6-7: Strength & Power

Week 8: Performance Testing & Re-Assessment

These programs are designed to help future stars reach their athletic potential. MOVATI’s experienced Performance Coaches will use effective programing to provide a fun and motivating environment, while focusing on sport specific drills to maximize speed, agility, strength, and power.

Spaces are limited. For more information and to secure your spot please see the front desk or contact your club’s Group Personal Training Manager.

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with This Special Offer. Already a member? To customize programming and help you improve your training, consult with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

#LETSMOVECANADA – 2024 NATIONAL HEALTH AND FITNESS DAY!

FITNESS

Get out and get active to celebrate National Health and Fitness Day on June 1st at your local MOVATI Athletic club.

Jayde Kabeya, our Group Fitness Education National Manager has challenged you! Take part in her Group Fitness or 50 Rep. challenge.

To learn more about these challenges, head over to our social media channels and check out Jayde’s challenges. Complete either one or if you are up for it why not conquer both? Share your experience on social media using the hashtag #MOVATIMovesCanada #LetsMoveCanada.

To learn more about National Health and Fitness Day, check out the Fitness Industry Council of Canada website: https://ficdn.ca/

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with This Special Offer. Already a member? To customize programming and help you improve your training, consult with one of our Performance Coaches in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

GOLF RECOVERY & REGENERATION

LIFESTYLE

Many of us face aches, pains, and injuries between rounds but do we ever treat them following the final hole?

It’s important to take care of your body after your round with golf-specific recovery & regeneration exercises. This will lead to improving the health and quality of your muscle tissues and joints, thus helping you to perform better on and off the course.

We break down some of the best movements you should do pre and post round to help your body and golf swing.

90-90 Stretch Exercise

The 90-90 Stretch Exercise is a great way to open up your chest and back, helping you to make a better turn for a more powerful golf swing.

Steps

  • Start by lying on the floor on your right side, with your arms out straight in front of your chest, hands together, shoulders vertical. Your right leg should be straight out in line with your body, and your left leg out in front of you, bent at the knee, with your left hip flexed at about 90 degrees.  Press your left knee into the ground.
  • Keep your left knee and right arm pressed on the ground, and your hips still, as you rotate your chest and straight left arm back to your left, trying to put both shoulders flat on the ground.
  • Slowly exhale, feeling the stretch, and return to the starting position.
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
  • Switch sides and repeat.

Your chest should feel tall, with no sense of your torso being flexed or “crunched”.  Fire the muscles of your back to rotate your upper body.  Keep your shoulder blades back and down, your abdominal muscles engaged and your back flat throughout.

You should feel a stretch all the way from your chest down to your groin.

Cross-Body Core Stretch Exercise

The Cross-Body Core Stretch Exercise is a great way to stretch out your shoulders and back, lengthening your muscles to help prevent your back stiffening up after exercise or a round of golf.

Steps

  • Start on your hands and knees, with a foam roller next to your left side, parallel to your body and level with your chest, with your left arm straight and right arm across your body, the back of your right hand on top of the foam roller.
  • Slowly roll the foam roller away from your body by actively rotating your torso, until your chest is facing your right hand.
  • Exhale and hold for 2 seconds, then relax, returning to the starting position.
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
  • Repeat on the other side.

Start with a small range of motion and gradually increase the stretch each time.

You should feel a stretch in your shoulders and back.

Hip Adductor Stretch Exercise

The Hip Adductor Stretch Exercise is a great way to stretch out and lengthen the adductor muscles of your hips (in the insides of your thighs) – helping you to build stability in your golf swing and to avoid injury.

Steps

  • Start by sitting on a mat, your knees up in front of your chest, feet together on the floor.
  • Let your knees drop apart to the sides, and reach between your legs to grasp your ankles and hold your feet firmly together.
  • Actively push your knees out and down as far apart as you can, and then gently push the insides of your thighs with your elbows to assist the stretch.
  • Exhale and hold for 2 seconds.
  • Relax and then repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Start with a small range of motion, and gradually try to increase the stretch with each rep.

Keep your back straight and your abdominal muscles engaged.

You should feel it stretching the inside of your thighs.

Calf Rope Stretch Exercise

The Calf Rope Stretch Exercise is a great way to stretch out your Achilles tendon and lengthen the muscles in your calf.

Steps

  • Start by lying in a supine position (on your back, face up), with one leg straight and held in air, with a rope wrapped around your foot.
  • Actively pull your toes towards your shin as far as you can, and then gently pull on the rope to assist the stretch.
  • Exhale and hold for 2 seconds.
  • Relax and then repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
  • Repeat with the other foot.
  • Start with a small range of motion, and gradually try to increase the stretch with each rep.

Keep your non-working leg flat on the ground, pushing your heel as far away from your head as possible and contracting your glutes.

You should feel it stretching your Achilles tendon.

Figure 4 With Leg Extension Exercise

The Figure 4 With Leg Extension Exercise is a great way to lengthen your hamstrings and glutes, helping you to build stability in your golf swing and to avoid injury.

Steps

  • Start by lying in a supine position (on your back, face up), with your right ankle crossed over your left thigh, and your left leg bent at the knee.
  • Holding your left thigh with both hands, actively bring it towards your chest until you feel a stretch in your left glutes.
  • Gently increase the stretch by pulling your left thigh closer to your chest.
  • Straighten your left leg to stretch your hamstrings.
  • Bring your left toes down towards your face to stretch your calf.
  • Hold for 5 to 10 deep breaths, in and out.
  • Relax and then repeat on the other side.

You should feel it stretching your hamstrings, glutes and calf.

Story Credit: Allen Panuncio – Canadian Professional Golf Association, Senior Instructor, Richmond Hill Golf Club

Join MOVATI Today and get Started with This Special Offer. Already a member? To customize programming and help you improve your training, consult with one of our Personal Trainers in club and complete your Game Plan Session or join seminars with one of our fitness professionals.

*MOVATI’s trainers and/or consultants are not health care providers, and do not provide any medical diagnosis, treatment or advice, and any trainer and/or consultant tips are not intended to replace the advice of a health care professional.