In the summer, there is a buzz on golf courses and practice areas. As the number of enthusiasts grows, so do golf-related injuries – the most common being upper limb and lower back problems.
Proper sleep ergonomics and body-supporting mattresses and pillows can prevent stiffness and pain caused by poor sleeping positions. When the body and mind are well-rested, the foundation for better golf performance is set. Trained sleep ergonomics expert Minna Aulavuo knows how important recovery is for achieving good performance.
"Often, beginner players focus too much on using force, and the repetition of the golf swing with incorrect technique is high. The motion of the golf swing is one-sided and asymmetrical, which is very demanding on the body. However, by optimizing sleep quality and duration, the risk of injury during play or practice can be reduced. To ensure we get enough restorative sleep, it is important to ensure individually suitable sleep ergonomics," says sleep ergonomics specialist Minna Aulavuo.
Golf Challenges and Brings People Together
Golf is a popular sport, appealing to its enthusiasts due to its versatility. The body and mind face new and varied challenges during the game. Golf excellently combines social relationships, outdoor activities, and beneficial exercise, providing sufficient physical activity to maintain and improve health and well-being. The sport also has several health benefits, affecting longevity, cardiovascular function, metabolism, the musculoskeletal system, and mental health.
“In addition to physical exertion, the mind is also heavily taxed during the game. It requires good concentration to perform the entire round in the best possible way. Therefore, golfers should pay attention to the recovery of both body and mind, which happens best during quality sleep”, explains Aulavuo.
Back Pain is Common Among Golfers
The most common pain symptom and injury among golfers is lower back pain: about a quarter of golf injuries are lower back injuries. Lower back pain is a very common musculoskeletal complaint, affecting golfers of different ages and skill levels.
Biomechanically, the golf swing is a demanding performance because various parts of the body need to move quickly and with a large range of motion. During the swing, the spine, shoulders, and pelvis undergo a strong, asymmetrical rotational movement, which strains the spine. The reduced internal or external rotation of the leading leg’s hip also significantly contributes to golfers' lower back pain. Mobility exercises for this area can alleviate lower back pain.
Good Golf Performance with a Rested Mind
“When concentration is difficult and the mind is tired, performing well on the course can be challenging. Golf requires focus for 4-5 hours during a full round. Tired brains make strategically wrong decisions on the course. Both the body and mind recover mostly during sleep. The better the body and mind recover, the better one plays”, notes Aulavuo.
Golf demands particularly good concentration and stamina during long rounds. Sleep plays a significant role in human brain function, affecting attention, memory, concentration, and performance. Additionally, the spine and intervertebral discs get a chance to recover from daily strain during nighttime sleep.
Better Sleep Ergonomics, Better Chances of Success
Proper sleep ergonomics minimize body strain and support sleep quality, leading to better recovery. Good sleep ergonomics help golfers avoid stiffness and pain, resulting in better technical performance of the swing and a well-rested mind that helps maintain focus during the game. The foundation for a successful swing, game strategy, and future successes is laid with proper sleep! Poor sleep ergonomics