GOLF EXERCISE TOOLBOX: Downdog Push-Ups
Is it a push up? Is it an overhead press?
It's both!
Which is what makes it an awesome tool to put in your toolbox.
WHAT IS A PUSH UP?
Although this may be a too simple question for many, it's important that we peel back the layers as far as we can on things.
A push up is an upper body strength exercise that targets the pecs (chest), triceps, and muscles of the core primarily.
HOW UPPER BODY GAINS CAN HELP YOUR GOLF GAME?
Strength and power in the upper body, and specifically a horizontal pressing pattern (like this one), has been shown to correlate with more clubhead speed (1).
When thinking about clubhead speed we often think about ground reaction forces and "it's all in the hips" but the upper body actually plays a significant role in the creation of clubhead speed.
Upper body exercises such as this one will help build:
Upper body tissue resilience
Joint stability and mobility
Strength and force production ability
All of which, while it won't directly fix your slice, will help you swing the golf club with more freedom, speed, and confidence knowing that your body is prepared for the sport!