IT'S GOOD FOR YOUR GAME

Senior swing is easy on the back

By T.J. Tomasi

Bad backs are the bane of many a golfer, even the best golfers in the world. Just ask Jason Day and Tiger Woods. Here’s a swing designed for senior golfers with reduced flexibility that also works for those suffering back injuries. It may look weird, but if it saves your back and you can play golf, then it’s worth it.

With a floating spine, the senior swing motion allows your spine to glide backward on the backswing, then forward through the ball. Thus, your spine and weight shift move in the same direction, which causes far less stress on your back than the standard swing. Additionally, letting your head release (swivel toward the target) through impact also relieves neck pressure, while encouraging you to stand up into the “I” finish ― another real back saver.

If your back is painful, try reducing the strain of coil by letting your left heel rise in your follow-through. Also, move the ball farther forward and close your stance more than normal while strengthening both your right- and left-hand grip positions. This will produce a hooking ball flight, so you must aim a little more to the right than usual.

Note: The term “bad back” is a generic description for a wide range of maladies, so check with your physician before you make any changes in your swing.

Dr. T.J. Tomasi is a teaching professional in Port St. Lucie, Fla. Visit his website at tomasigolf.com.

For the back-saving senior swing, I’ve shifted weight first to the right then back onto my left side in these two photos, and my shoulders and hips are turned the same amount instead of the standard shoulders 90 degrees/hips 45 degrees. This reduces the shear forces on your back, shoulders and neck. Basically, you get your power from lateral movement and leverage.