Tip From the Archives

The Pregnant Golfer

Problem

You are five months or more pregnant but are having balance or pendulum problems when playing golf. The real predicament is that as you reach the top of your swing or forward swing, your belly is still on the backswing and by the time your arms have finished your follow though, your stomach is still starting the forward swing.

Cure

Of course safety comes first; if you are experiencing any kind of pain, check with your doctor before playing golf. Bring extra water, snacks, and possibly antacids in your golf cart or the caddy’s bag as you play. The further your pregnant belly protrudes out, the shorter your backswing will have to be to help maintain balance and accuracy. There are a few tour players that believe that pregnancy allowed them to achieve greater distances, possibly due to the added weight gain or change to a lowered center of gravity in their swing. Not every woman is lucky enough to have their weight distribution all around their stomach and sides. Many will have mostly the additional expansion occur straight out in front of them; on the positive side, you will look skinnier faster after the baby comes!

Therapy

Your breast and stomach are likely to be inhibiting the swinging of your arms. To help compensate for it, tee the ball a little lower and increase your knee flex. The more knee flex you add, the more you will need to choke down on the grip to help establish flush contact with the ball. To help with your balance, try sticking your bottom out a little further. These adjustments will help you reach the ball while providing additional room for arm movement. Keep your lead arm straight. Always start with a half or a quarter backswing during when you practice at each tee box to test your balance and comfort level. If you are not already doing so at this point, you may need to begin reducing the length of your backswing. It is recommended that you pair up with a friend and play better-ball so you can use their distance shots when you are limited to using your short irons and putting.

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