Peak golf performance, including stroke distance, is as dependent on the stabilizing muscle groups as it is on muscular strength. When stabilizing muscle groups are performing at optimum levels, the prime movers become more powerful, consistent and efficient.  Specifically, during the golf swing, a consistent postural angle must be maintained throughout the complete golf swing even though tremendous changes in balance occur during the backswing and downswing.  A stability ball can provide an extremely challenging core workout to golfers of any fitness level. Three effective moves performed on the stability ball are stationary planks, hip bridges, and the Russian twist.  Photo 1: Stationary Planks: Begin with forearms on the ball and feet approximately shoulder width apart. Lift your hips up until your body makes a straight line. Tighten your abs and hold for 30 seconds at a time. Perform 5 sets. Photo 2: Hip Bridges: Begin with your feet resting on the top of the ball while your head and back are resting on the floor. Place your arms by your side. Squeeze your glutes and lift the hips into the air until your body is in a straight line from head to toe. Tighten your abs and hold for 30 seconds at a time. Perform 5 sets. Photo 3/4: The Russian Twist:  The Russian twist adds rotational strength to the core stability. Begin by positioning the ball beneath your shoulder blades, feet flat on the floor with knees bent at 90 degrees. Place your straight arms over your head and slowly rotate your shoulders to one side until you are balancing on one shoulder. Rotate back to center and repeat to the other side. Repeat 10 to each side. Consistent performance of these exercises will help with your stability during your golf swing. Effective stability equals better performance and more consistent stroke distance. By Christina Bennett, MS Exercise Science
