If you have ever had any back problems, you already know how painful and downright depressing it can be.  It is no fun playing golf when it hurts to swing the club.  I think many back strains could be avoided if we just stretch it out a little before even hitting the driving range.  It is always a good idea to hit a few balls at the range, before going out if you have time.  But before doing any 'swinging", we need to stretch, at a minimum. I expect to write a more comprehensive article about the importance of stretching in the future.  For now, a simple back stretch before hitting the first tee may save you from days of back pain. 

A lot of twisting goes on when you swing that driver, so give your back a chance to warm up first.  Begin by holding one of your irons out in front of you parallel to the ground.  Place your hands on it about 2-3 feet apart and rotate your waist.  Start slow, then gradually rotate farther and farther.  Really stretch your back.  This is the absolute minimum you should do before swinging the club.  You can research many other stretching techniques on the web.  The important thing is to do something.

Okay , go hit some balls!