WORCESTER, Mass. - Many golfers are getting ready to hit the course as the weather warms up and they would likely prefer to make it through the season without any nagging injuries.

Physical therapist Rob Pano said while golf isn't a sport we view as overly physical, like football, the repetitive motions can lead to injuries — especially in the lower back, shoulders and elbows.

Pano said the key for golfers is injury prevention and making sure they do excercises before they play to help with flexibility, mobility and stability.

"As we get older it's certainly more important to really get into that physical fitness. Number one, prevent an injury. Number two, for trying play longer," Pano said. "I think most people who play golf are pretty avid about it and they're pretty crazy about it. They want to play as long as they can so really getting into that injury prevention is really important."

For golfers itching to play, many courses are now open across the state.