Comparison of muscle mass and its relationship to golf performance among college amateur and professional golfers

Abstract

Summary Objective The aim of this study was to compare the differences in body composition and muscle mass between golfers and non-golfers and examine a possible correlation between body composition and performance among amateur and professional golfers. Methods The participants of the present study were 90 male colleges students and consisted of non-golfers (n = 33), amateur golfers (n = 31), and professional golfers (n = 26). Body compositions of participants were assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and golf-related performance parameters, including average round score, drive distance and putting skills, were also measured. Results Body mass index and percentage body fat were not significantly different among the three groups. The percentage right and left arm muscle mass in the amateur (P Conclusion These results indicate that although body compositions between amateur and professional golfers had no overall differences, regions of muscle that contributed to golf performance did differ.