What are the key muscles in the Golf Swing?

Mon Jan 13, 2014 by Dave Phillips

Several years ago I attended a conference in Europe in which Dr. Sergio Marta from the University of Lisbon presented the findings of multiple studies on the muscles that are used in a golf swing. 

The research showed that the key lower body muscle was the gluteus maximus more famously known as (your butt). While the key upper body muscles were the pectoralis major (chest), latissimus dorsi (back), core and forearm muscles. 

The gluteus maximus was shown to be responsible for hip external and internal rotation on the backswing and downswing as well as hip extension which is what gets you into a nice balanced posture during your finish. The pectoralis and latissimus were shown to create strong shoulder adductors which allows you to bring your arms across your body and raise them up in the air. The core which I consider the glue that holds the swing together transmits force from the lower body into the upper body and helps you rotate your torso, last but not least the forearms transmit all of the force created by the body into the club. 

What this means to you is that if your thinking about getting your body in shape for the golf season then start with the King or your gluteus maximus followed by your chest, latissimus dorsi, your core and finally your forearms.  Attached to the right of this page are may favorite exercises for these muscle groups.  If your really want to maximize your off season have a tpi certified expert evaluate your body and build a program for you.  Simply click below on "Find an Expert".

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