How to set yourself up before you reach the first tee

“Taking care of the body is really important. In my case it’s more stretching and preparing the body than strength before the round.”
– Renato Paratore, DP World Tour Pro Golfer and Castore Athlete

Preparation begins with getting the body moving, not fatigued. A short warm-up focused on mobility and stretching helps prepare muscles and joints for the demands of a full round without draining energy before you start. Prioritising movement over intensity ensures you step onto the course feeling loose and ready, not tired.

Building a reliable schedule before every round helps prepare both body and mind. Starting with light movement, then progressing into putting, short game and finally longer shots allow players to gradually build rhythm and feel. This structured approach reduces rushed preparation and helps create consistency from the first tee.

Effective warm-ups move from control to power. Beginning on the putting green, then working through chipping before stepping onto the range helps establish touch and timing before introducing full swings. This progression allows players to sharpen precision first, before focusing on distance.

Renato says, “I start on the putting green, then move into chipping and finish with a long warm-up on the range - it helps build the right feeling before the round.”

Rushing straight to the first tee limits preparation and increases the chance of a slow start. Arriving early enough to complete a full warm-up, typically 45 minutes or more gives players time to settle into the round, adjust to conditions and build confidence before the first shot.

Golf may not feel high intensity, but 18 holes place consistent demand on the body through walking, rotation and repeated swings. Preparing properly helps maintain mobility, reduce stiffness and support performance across the full round, not just the opening holes.