Male Golfers Research Articles

Changes in strength and jump performance over a 10 week competitive period in male collegiate golfers

Changes in strength and jump performance over a 10 week competitive period in male collegiate golfers

Relationship of Clubhead Speed With Explosive Power and Muscle Strength of the Hip and Trunk Joints of Elite Golfers.

Suhara, H, Nariai, M, Takagi, T, Akiyama, K, Nagashima, J, and Shiraki, H. Relationship of clubhead speed with explosive power and muscle strength of the hip and trunk joints of elite golfers. J Strength Cond Res 37(4): 859-865, 2023-In golf, the driving distance of the ball is affected by the clubhead speed (CHS) on impact. We aimed to clarify the relationship between CHS and explosive power and muscle strength of the hip and trunk muscles in elite golfers (male age: 19.6 ± 1.9 years, male handicap: 4.4 ± 0.9, female age: 17.7 ± 1.4 years, and female handicap: 6.2 ± 0.7). A correlational design was used to assess the relationships between CHS and strength (hip extension-flexion and trunk rotation of peak torque at an isokinetic 60 and 180°·s -1 angular velocity) and CHS and power (countermovement jump [CMJ]; peak power and jump height; backward overhead medicine ball [BOMB] throw). Fourteen each of male and female elite golfers were included. The CHS during the golf swing was measured using a Doppler radar measurement device (Trackman). A correlation analysis between each measurement and CHS ( p ≤ 0.05) was conducted. We found that the peak torque of right hip extension at an angular velocity of 180°/s (male, r = 0.67; female, r = 0.61), peak CMJ power (male: r = 0.63, female: r = 0.75), and BOMB throw distance (male, r = 0.6; female, 0.6) were positively correlated with CHS in both male and female golfers. These results suggest that the extensor strength of the lower extremities and trunk, centered on the hip joint in the sagittal plane, is important for physical fitness and muscle strength measurement related to CHS. Conversely, concentric trunk rotator strength and CHS were not correlated, suggesting that concentric trunk rotator strength may not be actively involved in CHS.

Accuracy of Wearable Devices for Estimating Energy Expenditure and Heart Rate During Golf

PURPOSE: This study examined the accuracy of the heart rate (HR) and energy expenditure (EE) measured by commercially available wearable devices during golf.METHODS: A total of 14 male golfers (24.0±4.06 years) participated in this study. Each participant wore five wearable devices (Apple Watch Series 2, AS; Fitbit Versa, FV; Polar V800, PV; Samsung Galaxy Watch Active, SA; and Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR, SWH) on the wrist in the laboratory and/or on a golf course. The criterion measures used to evaluate the accuracy of the HR and EE entailed a wireless heart rate monitor (Polar V800, Polar, Finland) and portable indirect gas analyzer (K4b2, COSMED, Italy). In the laboratory, the participants walked on a treadmill and swung golf clubs using seven iron. On the golf course, the participants played golf in nine holes.RESULTS: In the laboratory, the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of the HR in the five wearable devices was within 8% for walking and golf club swinging, excluding FV (12%). The MAPE in EE was within 15% for SA, AS, and PV when walking at a speed of 5.6 km/h on the treadmill, but the MAPE in golf club swinging were within 25%. On the golf courses, the HR in all wearable devices showed the MAPE of <5% but EE showed an error rate of <20%, excluding SWH (73%).CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study suggest that wearable devices might be used to monitor intensity and amount of exercise during golf.

Reducing Knee Joint Load during a Golf Swing: The Effects of Ball Position Modification at Address

As the modern golf swing has changed, the incidence of knee pain in professional golfers is increasing. For those with previous knee injuries, developing a golf-swing modification that reduces knee loading may be necessary to recover performance after injury. The purpose of this study was to test whether ball position modification reduces knee joint load in a golf swing. Thirteen male professional golfers participated in the study. Golf swings were captured using a three-dimensional motion capture system and two force platforms, with conditions for self-selected ball position and eight additional ball positions. Knee internal rotation and adduction moments were calculated. The length of one golf ball (4.27 cm) backward ball position (closer to the golfer) significantly reduced the peak internal rotation moment of the lead knee (- 13.8%) (p < 0.001) and the length of one golf ball (4.27 cm) away from the target ball position significantly reduced the peak adduction moment of the lead knee (- 11.5%) (p < 0.001) compared with that of the self-selected ball position. Based on these observations, we conclude that the backward ball position modification might be suggested for golfers with anterior cruciate ligament injuries, and the away from the target modification might be suggested for golfers with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis.

Reducing Knee Joint Load during a Golf Swing: The Effects of Ball Position Modification at Address

As the modern golf swing has changed, the incidence of knee pain in professional golfers is increasing. For those with previous knee injuries, developing a golf-swing modification that reduces knee loading may be necessary to recover performance after injury. The purpose of this study was to test whether ball position modification reduces knee joint load in a golf swing. Thirteen male professional golfers participated in the study. Golf swings were captured using a three-dimensional motion capture system and two force platforms, with conditions for self-selected ball position and eight additional ball positions. Knee internal rotation and adduction moments were calculated. The length of one golf ball (4.27 cm) backward ball position (closer to the golfer) significantly reduced the peak internal rotation moment of the lead knee (- 13.8%) (p < 0.001) and the length of one golf ball (4.27 cm) away from the target ball position significantly reduced the peak adduction moment of the lead knee (- 11.5%) (p < 0.001) compared with that of the self-selected ball position. Based on these observations, we conclude that the backward ball position modification might be suggested for golfers with anterior cruciate ligament injuries, and the away from the target modification might be suggested for golfers with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis.

Knee flexor and extensor isokinetic strength profiles of elite male golfers

Objective: Although lower extremity plays an important role for postural control and to produce power during the golf swing, it has not been clearly examined. The aim of this study was to identify the left-right, and agonist-antagonist knee muscle strength profiles and its correlation with performance in proficient golfers. Materials and Methods: Eight male elite golfers, age 21.6±1.1 years, height 174.1±6.1 cm, and body mass 68.6±2.7 kg, with handicaps of 0-5 participated in the study. Knee flexor and extensor peak torques of the golfers were measured by using isokinetic dynamometer (at 60°/s, 120°/s and 240°/s). The number of golf shots on an 18-hole golf course was recorded to determine golf performance. Results: In golf players, knee strength difference between right and left extremities were 0.53%, 5.77% and 5.35% for flexor muscles and 5.71%, 3.60% and 7.91% for extensor muscles at 60°/s, 120°/s and 180°/s, respectively. Right and left knee Fcon/Excon ratio was between 0.67-0.99. No correlation was found between golf performance and peak torques except for right knee flexor muscle at 120°/s angular velocity. Conclusions: Knee muscle strength variations between right-left and agonist-antagonist muscles were below the injury risk limits. Those negligible imbalances may be the result of functional differences of knee muscles during each part of the golf swing. It is important to add appropriate drills to the training programs so that these differences do not cause injury and poor performance in the long term.

Golf Swing Biomechanics: A Systematic Review and Methodological Recommendations for Kinematics.

Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate golf swing performance in both preventing injury and injury occurrence. The objective of this review was to describe state-of-the-art golf swing biomechanics, with a specific emphasis on movement kinematics, and when possible, to suggest recommendations for research methodologies. Keywords related to biomechanics and golf swings were used in scientific databases. Only articles that focused on golf-swing kinematics were considered. In this review, 92 articles were considered and categorized into the following domains: X-factor, crunch factor, swing plane and clubhead trajectory, kinematic sequence, and joint angular kinematics. The main subjects of focus were male golfers. Performance parameters were searched for, but the lack of methodological consensus prevented generalization of the results and led to contradictory results. Currently, three-dimensional approaches are commonly used for joint angular kinematic investigations. However, recommendations by the International Society of Biomechanics are rarely considered.

Injuries associated with golf: A qualitative study

BackgroundGolf is a popular sport played worldwide. The majority of professional golfers work as teaching professionals based at golf clubs. All professional players spend numerous hours on the golf course, placing themselves at increased risk of injury. There have been no recent, large studies investigating injury patterns among male and female professional golfers. ObjectiveTo investigate the frequency, types and mechanism of injury sustained by male and female professional golfers and to compare injury patterns between touring and teaching professionals. MethodsInjury data was analyzed from 77 amateur golfers recruited through a questionnaire asking about their different injuries. A web based survey was conducted focusing on injury frequency, location and mechanism and any subsequent time loss. Factors such as side of injury, investigations for the injury were noted. ResultsThe study enlisted the participation of 76 patients. One was excluded due to incomplete questionairres Injuries were reported by 34 patients (45%). Eleven patients said they had an elbow injury. The relationship between the number of years the individuals had been playing golf and their history of injury was shown to be significant (p = 0.0257). Warm up and injury have a statistically significant relationship (p = 0.846). ConclusionIn order to contribute to making golf a safer and hence more enjoyable lifetime activity, a greater knowledge of golf-related injuries is required. This study attempts to do so, and the elbow was discovered to be the most damaged region.

Increased trunk muscle recruitment during the golf swing is linked to developing lower back pain: A prospective longitudinal cohort study

BackgroundThis is the first study that presents electromyographic measurements prior to the development of lower back pain in young elite golfers. Study designProspective longitudinal cohort study. MethodsThirty-three injury free elite golfers were included. Muscle activity from latissimus dorsi, rectus abdominis, external oblique and erector spinae muscles were recorded during 10 drive golf swings. Lower back pain, training and performance were monitored over a six-month period. Muscle activation comparisons were made between the baseline results of those who went on to develop lower back pain versus those who did not go on to develop lower back pain. ResultsAfter the six-month monitoring period 17 participants developed lower back pain. The group that developed lower back pain had increased dominant rectus abdominis and dominant latissimus dorsi activation at various time points throughout the swing. DiscussionThe increased dominant rectus abdominis and dominant latissimus dorsi during the golf swing is linked with developing lower back pain. Training strategies aimed at reducing these muscles activation during the swing may reduce the incidence of lower back pain in young elite male golfers.

Can early golfing lead to acetabular and lower limb changes? A cross-sectional study

Golf is a sport which is sometimes started early, in particular for players who become professionals. The combination of an early practice (before growth peak) with high training loads could further increase the occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries. The aim of this study was to comparing the morphological and positional parameters of the acetabular and lower limbs of golfers with early or late involvement in the golf practice. Two populations: golfers with early involvement in golf practice (before adolescent growth peak, 12 y.o.), golfers with late involvement (after adolescent growth peak). Subjects underwent a low-dose biplanar radiograph in standard standing position allowing the 3D reconstruction of bones. Morphological parameters were automatically computed from it. Thirty-five male golf players were included: 13 in early group (mean age 27 y.o.), 22 in late group (mean age 56 y.o.). The index of cumulative torsions (sum of the tibial and femoral torsions) was different between sides in early: 7° on the lead-side; 20° on the trail-side ( p < 0.01). This index was different between the lead-side of the early group compared to late (22°; p < 0.001). It could be explained by the mechanical stresses applied on lead knee and ankle during the follow-through. Intensive golf involvement by young players could lead to bone morphology modifications.

An application of Chasles' theorem to describe the rotation axis of golf swing

The purpose of this study was to propose a method for describing the rotational motion of the entire golf swing by two lines about which the trunk and the lower limbs rotate respectively, and to visualize individual differences in the rotation axes. Three-dimensional whole-body motion data of three male golfers were collected using an IMU motion capture system and a helical axis was computed for each body segment at each interval of frames. The weighted average of the helical axes of the head, upper trunk, and lower trunk segments was computed for each interval to represent the rotation axis of the trunk. Similarly, the weighted average was calculated for femur, leg, and foot segments to represent the rotation axis of the lower limbs. The mean values and standard deviations of the position and orientation of each rotation axis were computed over each of the two swing phases (backswing phase & downswing phase) and animated as cones in computer graphics. Comparisons of the rotation axes among the three golfers revealed that the position and the direction of the axes are unique to each player.

IMPACT OF COVID-19: A QUALITATIVE STUDY GOLFING ACTIVITIES FOR SPORTS TOURISM MANAGEMENT IN TERENGGANU

The aim of the study was to explore in determining safety guideline and standard operating procedures when conducting golf game activities during the Pandemic Covid-19. The goal of this exploratory study was to gain a better understanding of the lived experiences of people who play and manage golf in a pandemic situation using a qualitative approach. Four (4) people male golfers were interviewed for this study and permission were given from the Kuala Terengganu Golf Resort Management (KTGR). The semi-structured interviews were guided by a set of core questions and were designed for the golfer who are directly involved in safety guidelines and standard operating procedures. The investigation showed that golf was a playable and manageable activity throughout the Pandemic Covid-19, and that it drew ongoing involvement, resulting in social relationships and improved well-being

Linear Relationships Among the Hand and Clubhead Motion Characteristics in Golf Driving in Skilled Male Golfers.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the linear relationships among the hand/clubhead motion characteristics in golf driving in skilled male golfers (n = 66; handicap ≤ 3). The hand motion plane (HMP) and functional swing plane (FSP) angles, the HMP-FSP angle gaps, the planarity characteristics of the off-plane motion of the clubhead, and the attack angles were computed from the drives captured by an optical motion capture system. The HMP angles were identified as the key variables, as the HMP and FSP angles were intercorrelated, but the plane angle gaps, the planarity bias, and the attack angles showed correlations to the HMP angles primarily. Three main swing pattern clusters were identified. The parallel HMP-FSP alignment pattern with a small direction gap was associated with neutral planarity and planar swing pattern. The inward alignment pattern with a large inward direction gap was characterized by flat planes, follow-through-centric planarity, spiral swing pattern, and inward/downward impact. The outward alignment pattern with a large outward direction gap was associated with steep planes, downswing-centric planarity, reverse spiral swing, and outward/upward impact. The findings suggest that practical drills targeting the hand motion pattern can be effective in holistically reprogramming the swing pattern.

Importance of Transverse Plane Flexibility for Proficiency in Golf.

McHugh, MP, O'Mahoney, CA, Orishimo, KF, Kremenic, IJ, and Nicholas, SJ. Importance of transverse plane flexibility for proficiency in golf. J Strength Cond Res 36(2): e49-e54, 2022-The extent to which the flexibility requirements for golf proficiency vary between the planes of motion has not been examined. The purpose of this study was to compare flexibility between proficient and average golfers with the hypothesis that proficient golfers have greater transverse plane flexibility than average golfers, with no differences in the sagittal and frontal planes. Twenty-five male golfers were categorized as proficient (handicap ≤5, n = 13) or average (handicap 10-20, n = 12). Fourteen flexibility tests were performed (4 shoulder tests, 4 trunk tests, and 6 hip tests) with tests in all 3 planes of motion for each body segment. In addition, trunk motion, pelvic motion, and hip motion during the golf swing were assessed with high-speed motion analysis. Ball speed and shot distance were recorded with a golf simulator. Proficient golfers had significantly better flexibility than average golfers in the transverse plane (shoulder p = 0.021, trunk p = 0.003, and hip p < 0.0001), with no differences in the sagittal plane or frontal plane (plane of motion by golf proficiency p = 0.0001). Transverse plane hip flexibility accounted for 48% of the variability in ball speed (p < 0.0001) and 45% of the variability in total distance (p = 0.001). During the golf swing, proficient golfers had greater separation between the pelvis and the trunk (x-factor) than average golfers (p = 0.002). In conclusion, transverse plane flexibility in the trunk and hips is an important requirement for golf proficiency. Sagittal plane flexibility and frontal plane flexibility were unrelated to proficiency. Developing and maintaining trunk and hip rotation flexibility is important for optimizing performance.

Psychomotor Efficiency in Golf: The Role of Physiological Responses on Putting Performance

Putting is paramount to performance in golf and differentiates low and high achievers in the sport. In the present study, we compared the heart rate, respiration rate, and galvanic skin response for missed and holed putts performed by 13 skilled male golfers from a 12-ft (3.65-m) distance. Contrary to our expectations, no significant effects were observed for heart rate and respiration rate, likely because skilled athletes (a) engage in preperformance routines and are able to control their breathing rhythms, which in turn influence their heart rate; and (b) physiological responses are idiosyncratic, akin to the Individual Zones of Optimal Functioning framework. Congruent with our expectations, we observed a significant effect for galvanic skin response, with higher values observed for missed putts. This effect was robust to individual differences and suggests that biofeedback interventions aimed at enhancing awareness of autonomous physiological responses can be beneficial for performance enhancement in golf putting.

Once Weekly Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Enhances Muscle Quality in Men: Data of the Randomized Controlled Franconian Electromyostimulation and Golf Study.

Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS) is commercially advertised as a time-efficient resistance-type exercise technology. Indeed, the commercial, non-medical setting applies 20 min of WB-EMS only once a week. However, this setting conflicts with the approved scientific approach of higher training frequencies. Using data from an ongoing study on WB-EMS and golf performance as a vehicle, we evaluate the effect of once weekly WB-EMS on changes of fatty muscle infiltration, as a crucial parameter of muscle quality. Fifty-four moderately physically active male amateur golfers 18–70 years old were randomly allocated to a WB-EMS (n = 27) with a standard setting of once weekly 20 min and a non-WB-EMS control group (CG, n = 27). Intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) volume and intrafascial muscle tissue (MT) volume per unit of intrafascial volume as determined by magnetic resonance imaging were used to characterize muscle quality. Intention to treat analysis with multiple imputation was applied. WB-EMS was conducted at the participants’ homes; thus, the attendance rate was close to 100%. After 16 weeks of intervention, we observed increases in volume-adjusted IMAT (p = 0.040) and decreases in MT (p = 0.206) in the CG. IMAT decreased in the WB-EMS group (p = 0.215), while MT increased significantly (p = 0.032). Of importance, group difference (i.e., “effects”) for intra-group changes in volume-adjusted IMAT (effect size: d´ = 0.66; p = 0.028) and MT (d´ = 0.70; p = 0.020) was significant for both parameters. Once weekly WB-EMS application significantly affects muscle quality of the mid-thigh in moderately active, healthy men 18–70 years old.

Once-Weekly Whole-Body Electromyostimulation Increases Strength, Stability and Body Composition in Amateur Golfers. A Randomized Controlled Study.

Whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS), an innovative training technology, is considered as a joint-friendly, highly customizable and particularly time-effective option for improving muscle strength and stability, body composition and pain relief. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of 16 weeks of once-weekly WB-EMS on maximum isometric trunk (MITS), leg extensor strength (MILES), lean body mass (LBM) and body-fat content. A cohort of 54 male amateur golfers, 18 to 70 years old and largely representative for healthy adults, were randomly assigned to a WB-EMS (n = 27) or a control group (CG: n = 27). Bipolar low-frequency WB-EMS combined with low-intensity movements was conducted once per week for 20 min at the participants’ locations, while the CG maintained their habitual activity. The intention to treat analysis with multiple imputation was applied. After 16 weeks of once-weekly WB-EMS application with an attendance rate close to 100%, we observed significant WB-EMS effects on MITS (p < 0.001), MILES (p = 0.001), LBM (p = 0.034), but not body-fat content (p = 0.080) and low-back pain (LBP: p ≥ 0.078). In summary, the commercial setting of once-weekly WB-EMS application is effective to enhance stability, maximum strength, body composition and, to a lower extent, LBP in amateur golfers widely representative for a healthy male cohort.

Does a cool head beat a hot hand? Evidence from professional golf

This study draws upon psychological models of momentum to test for the existence of characteristics such as the hot hand and whether such characteristics predict better or worse overall performance. Using data from professional golf tournaments, we show that the negative emotions associated with poor performance (such as a loss of confidence) have a greater influence in the short run on scoring than positive emotions associated with prior success. We find that male and female golfers respond similarly to prior hole performance, while better players may be more prone to dips in performance after recent failures than other players. Overall, our results provide empirical support for the notion that performance training should incorporate psychological skills, including strategies for controlling emotional responses to success and failure in the short run.

An examination of imagery ability and imagery use in skilled golfers

Abstract Objectives The use of imagery to improve golf performance is well established and recognised as a key psychological technique in developing and maintaining excellence. However, the relationship between a golfer’s imagery ability and their imagery use is still poorly understood. The current study examined differences in participants vividness of movement imagery and imagery use and the extent their vividness of movement imagery predicted functions of imagery use. Methods One hundred and one male skilled golfers (Mage=27.80, SD=11.03) with CONGU recognised handicaps ranging from plus 4 to 5 (Mhandicap=1.32, SD=2.74) completed both the Vividness of Movement Imagery Questionnaire-2 (Roberts, R., Callow, N., Hardy, L., Markland, D., &amp; Bringer, J. (2008). Movement imagery ability: Development and assessment of a revised version of the vividness of movement imagery questionnaire. Journal of Sport &amp; Exercise Psychology, 30(2), 200–221) and Sports Imagery Questionnaire (Hall, C. R., Mack, D. E., Paivio, A., &amp; Hauesenblas, H. A. (1998). Imagery use by athletes: Development of the sport imagery questionnaire. International Journal of Sport Psychology, 29, 73–89). Results The results demonstrated no significant differences between Internal and External visual imagery, however, Kinaesthetic imagery scores were significantly higher than External visual imagery scores. Significant differences in imagery use were recorded with participants reporting higher Cognitive specific imagery use scores compared to other functions of imagery use. Regression analyses indicted that golf handicap accounted for 12% in the variance of Cognitive specific imagery use with an additional 12% accounted for by Internal visual imagery and 7% Kinaesthetic imagery. For Cognitive general imagery use golf handicap accounted for 4% of the variance with Internal visual imagery adding a further 5% to the model. Conclusions Our findings highlight that vividness of movement imagery; specifically, Internal and Kinaesthetic imagery ability are significant predictors of skilled golfers Cognitive specific and Cognitive general imagery use.

To Study the Competitive Performance of Top Male Golfers based on Tour Data

竞技表现; 发球; 攻果岭; 果岭周边; 推杆; 数据统计