Winter Golf Readiness Series: Part 3: Stay Ready for Spring with Smart Preparation
- Michael L Dexter
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Winter can feel like a long pause for many golfers. The cold weather, shorter days, and less time on the course can make it tempting to put your clubs away until spring. But staying ready during the off-season gives you a real edge when the warmer months return. With the right practice, training, and gear, you can keep your skills sharp, and your body prepared all winter long.
Staying Golf-Ready Off the Course
Winter is the perfect time to focus on areas that often get overlooked during the busy season. Instead of just swinging clubs, you can build a stronger foundation for your game by improving your physical fitness, flexibility, and mental approach.
Strength and Mobility Training
Golf depends heavily on core stability, hip mobility, and rotational strength. These areas power your swing and help prevent injury. Winter workouts should target these key muscle groups:
Core stability: Exercises like planks, Russian twists, and medicine ball throws build a strong midsection.
Hip mobility: Hip openers, lunges, and dynamic stretches improve range of motion.
Rotational strength: Cable rotations, woodchoppers, and resistance band drills enhance your ability to turn through the swing.
Aim for two strength or mobility sessions per week. These workouts don’t need to be long but should focus on quality movements that translate directly to your golf swing.
Flexibility and Recovery
Maintaining flexibility is crucial for a free, fluid swing. Winter is an ideal time to add stretching, yoga, and foam rolling to your routine. These practices help reduce muscle tightness and lower the risk of injury.
Stretch your hamstrings, hips, shoulders, and back regularly.
Use foam rollers on tight areas like the IT band and calves.
Try yoga poses that open the chest and hips to support your golf posture.
Even 10 minutes of daily stretching can make a big difference in how your body feels when you return to the course.
Mental Preparation
Golf is as much a mental game as a physical one. Use the winter downtime to sharpen your course management skills and build confidence.
Study course layouts and plan strategies for different holes.
Visualize shots and practice mental rehearsal techniques.
Review past rounds to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
This mental work keeps your focus sharp and helps you approach spring rounds with a clear game plan.
Winter Practice Drills You Can Do Anywhere
You don’t need a full course to keep your skills sharp. Several simple drills can be done indoors or in small spaces.
Indoor Putting Practice
A putting mat is a great investment for winter. Work on:
Alignment by placing tees or markers to guide your stroke.
Stroke consistency by repeating short putts.
Distance control by varying the length of your putts.
Practicing putting indoors keeps your feel and touch sharp for when you get back on the green.
At-Home Chipping Drills
Use foam balls and small targets to maintain your chipping technique. Set up targets at different distances and practice landing the ball softly and close.
This low-impact drill helps preserve your feel around the greens without needing a full practice area.
Swing Video Analysis
Record your swing during winter practice and compare it to your peak-season footage. Look for:
Changes in posture or swing plane.
Differences in tempo or balance.
Areas where you lose power or control.
Video analysis helps you spot issues early and make adjustments before spring.
What to Pack in Your Winter Golf Bag
Being prepared for cold weather rounds makes a big difference. A well-packed winter golf bag should include:
Extra gloves to swap out if one gets wet or cold.
Hand warmers to keep fingers nimble.
A beanie or thermal hat for head warmth.
A towel to manage moisture on grips and clubs.
Layering options like a warm hoodie or pullover from Kilted Squirrel for comfort without restricting your swing.
Having these essentials on hand helps you stay comfortable and focused during chilly rounds.
Weekly Winter Golf Readiness Plan
Consistency is key to staying ready. A simple weekly plan could look like this:
Play 1 winter round when weather allows.
Complete 1 to 2 practice sessions focusing on putting and chipping.
Do 2 strength or mobility workouts targeting golf-specific muscles.
Stretch lightly every day to maintain flexibility.
This balanced approach keeps your skills and body in shape without burnout.
Why Kilted Squirrel Is Built for Winter Golf
Kilted Squirrel designs golf apparel with cold-weather golfers in mind. Their winter-ready gear offers:
Warmth without restricting movement, so your swing stays natural.
Durable, performance-driven materials that stand up to winter conditions.
Athletic fits that accommodate real swings, not just casual wear.
Stylish options that work on and off the course, including hoodies and pullovers perfect for layering.
Choosing the right apparel helps you stay warm and comfortable, so you can focus on your game no matter the temperature.
Winter Is Your Competitive Advantage
Golf doesn’t stop when winter arrives. It changes. By using this season to build strength, maintain flexibility, sharpen your mental game, and practice smartly indoors, you set yourself up for success. Combine that with dependable cold-weather gear from Kilted Squirrel, and you’ll be ready to hit the ground running when spring comes.
Stay warm, stay sharp, and keep your golf game moving forward all winter long. Your spring rounds will thank you.
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