How Pilates Improved My Golf Swing
My relationship with golf began in China in 2006, almost 20 years ago.
Like many golfers, I quickly became obsessed. For the first few years, I spent countless hours on the driving range, often practising almost every day. I was determined to improve my swing, build consistency, and understand the game.
When I moved to the UK in 2010, I started playing more rounds on the course. Compared to China, golf was significantly more affordable and accessible, which allowed me to enjoy the game in a completely different way.
As life became busier, however, golf gradually took a back seat. Between running businesses, travelling extensively for work, becoming a wife and later a mother, there simply wasn't enough time. Like many women, I put my own hobbies and interests on hold while focusing on everyone else.
Recently, I picked up my clubs again.
What surprised me was that despite playing less golf over the past decade, my swing actually felt better.
The biggest difference? Pilates.
18 months ago, I began practising Pilates in @lebarre.colchester regularly. My goal wasn't to improve my golf. I simply wanted to become stronger, move better, improve my posture, and invest in my long-term health.
What I didn't expect was how much Pilates would improve my golf swing.
Golf is a rotational sport. Power doesn't come from the arms alone—it comes from mobility through the spine, stability through the core, balance through the lower body, and the ability to transfer energy efficiently through the swing.
Pilates strengthened all of these areas.
I noticed greater rotation through my upper body, improved hip mobility, and much better balance throughout the swing. Instead of trying to force power, I was able to generate it naturally. My swing felt smoother, more controlled, and more consistent.
Perhaps the greatest benefit was body awareness.
Pilates taught me how to move with intention. I became more aware of my posture, breathing, alignment, and movement patterns. That awareness translated directly onto the golf course.
Today, I believe Pilates is one of the most underrated forms of training for golfers—especially women. It builds strength without bulk, improves mobility, enhances balance, and supports longevity both on and off the course.
As I return to golf nearly 20 years after first picking up a club, I appreciate the game differently. It's no longer just about distance or score. It's about moving well, staying healthy, enjoying the process, and continuing to challenge myself.
Pilates didn't just improve my golf swing.
It reminded me that strength, confidence, and performance all begin with how we move.
And that's exactly what STRVNG is about.
🧡 Strength in Motion.
— Xijia Zhang
Founder, STRVNG
