Dowel Golf Swing Drill
Golfer’s elbow refers to pain that is typically on the inside of the elbow and originates in what is known as the common flexor tendon origin, where multiple muscles in the forearm attach to the elbow. The most common muscles involved with golfer’s elbow are the pronator teres and the flexor carpi radialis, but it can also involve other wrist flexors including the flexor digitorum superficialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, and palmaris longus.
True cases of golfer’s elbow are more common with recreational and amateur golfers because of mechanics. This group of golfers are more likely to compensate and excessively use their upper body, compared to the pros that use their legs and their core efficiently. The average golfer is more likely to ‘hit from the top’, or cast their wrists, which can lead to excessive repetitive stress on the common flexor tendon. With true golfer’s elbow cases, it is important to work on proximal strengthening and stability throughout the kinetic chain.
Taking the arms out of the equation with the golf swing is one of the best things you can do to learn how to use your lower body and your core. This is especially true for golfers that like to muscle their swing with their arms. I love this drill just to practice ‘grooving’ your swing pattern, I use this as a warm-up sometimes! The best part about this drill is when your elbow is aggravated, you can still practice your swing pain-free!
