Golf Performance Research Articles

골프리조트 종사원의 셀프리더십이 창의적 직무몰입과 직무성과에 미치는 영향 : 그릿(Grit)의 조절효과를 중심으로

Due to the increase in the number of golfers due to leisure time, golf resorts are becoming so popular that they are in their second heyday. However, competition among golf resorts and golf course preference among golfers are also expected to be polarized. To overcome these situational limitations, golf resorts strive to provide differentiated services and various education for employees. This study aimed to identify the impact of self-leadership of golf resort employees on creative job commitment and job performance. In addition, the moderating effect of grit was placed in the effects of self-leadership of golf resort employees on creative job commitment. As a result, the self-leadership of golf resort employees has a significant impact on creative job commitment and job performance. In the influence of self-leadership and creative job commitment, grit has been shown to have a moderating effect. Golf resort employees with high grit feel high about the impact of self-leadership's constructive thought pattern strategy on creative job commitment. In addition, golf resort employees with high grit feel high about the effect of self-leadership's natural reward strategy on creative job commitment. In conclusion, we discussed the academic and practical implications of self-leadership, creative job commitment, job performance, and grit of golf resort employees.

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.

An assessment of the relationships between ball flight results, impact factors, and golf performance

PurposeThe aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between golf players’ performance, impact factors, and ball flight results with individual clubs when performing a full swing.MethodsThe study involved 9 amateur golfers who performed a full swing test with 4 different clubs (short, middle, long iron, and driver) and then played a tournament round of golf. The players’ performance was assessed by handicap and by game statistics from the tournament. The ball flight results were based on the resulting carry distance and the resulting side deviation from the target line. The impact factors were the initial ball speed, the club head speed, the smash factor, the face angle, the club path, and the face to path. Relationships between the players’ performance, impact factors, and ball flight results were investigated.ResultsA significant relationship was found between the resulting ball flight distance and handicap for long iron (<i>r</i> = –0.85; <i>p</i> < 0.01) and driver (<i>r</i> = –0.9; <i>p</i> < 0.01). Conversely, the resulting ball flight side deviation from the target line correlated with handicap in short iron (<i>r</i> = 0.78; <i>p</i> = 0.02).ConclusionsBall flight distance of long iron and driver and ball flight side deviation of short iron are key attributes of performance. The results suggest that in order to improve long term performance, players should aim for maximal distance with drivers and long irons (high smash factor) and for maximal accuracy with short irons (low face angle).

Automation Use and Dis-Use in Golf: The Impact of Distance Measuring Devices on Trust in Technology and Confidence in Determining Distance.

An athlete’s decision to use technology depends on trust in the automation, and confidence in their abilities. Distance measuring devices (DMD) are used in golf to estimate yardage. The purpose of these studies was to examine how DMD usage affects trust in the DMD, confidence in determining yardage manually, and golf performance over time. In study 1, DMD non-users played four rounds of golf, two with the DMD and two without. In study 2, DMD users played five rounds, three with the device, and two without. Participants’ trust in automation, confidence, and performance were recorded by online survey at baseline and following each round. Giving a DMD to non-users influenced trust in automation and confidence. When DMD users relinquished the device, confidence decreased briefly but rebounded quickly, trust in automation was unaffected. Performance was unchanged in both groups. These studies provide information about how confidence in abilities and trust in automation interact.

Effects of Resistance Training Methods on Golf Clubhead Speed and Hitting Distance: A Systematic Review.

Uthoff, A, Sommerfield, LM, and Pichardo, AW. Effects of resistance training methods on golf clubhead speed and hitting distance: A systematic review. J Strength Cond Res 35(9): 2651-2660, 2021-Resistance training is widely regarded within the golfing community to improve golf performance by increasing clubhead speed (CHS) and drive distance and can be classified into 3 categories: nonspecific, specific, and combined. However, it is currently unclear which resistance training methods are most effective in improving predictors of golf performance. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to compare the effectiveness of nonspecific, specific, and combined strength training methods on CHS and drive distance. A systematic search strategy was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines to identify eligible articles through PubMed, SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE (EBSCO), and Google Scholar. The searches identified 4,557 potentially relevant results, with 20 studies that met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Thirteen studies investigated nonspecific resistance training, one study investigated specific resistance training, and 7 studies investigated combined resistance training. Collectively, resistance training positively impacts golf CHS and hitting distance, but adaptations vary depending on the type and intensity of training, as well as subject's characteristics. Using a combination of nonspecific and golf-specific training (average increase of 4.1% CHS and 5.2% hitting distance) seems to enhance golf performance more than nonspecific strength training (average increase of 1.6% CHS and 4.8% hitting distance). Eight-week programs including golf-specific movements at high velocities for 3 to 4 sets of 5 to 15 repetitions are the most effective in increasing CHS and hitting distance. Future research investigating how golf-specific training influences CHS and hitting distance in various subgroups may provide further insight regarding prescription of this training type.

COVID-19 이후 2020년 한국여자프로골프선수의 경기력 분석

This study analyzed the golf performance of Korean Ladies Professional Golfers who participated in the 2020 KLPGA Tour. And for this, we used the performance data of the top 17 players in 16 competitions in 2020. Pearson’s correlation was conducted using the R 4.1 program for correlation analysis between variables applied to outcome generation and the statistical significance of the correlation coefficient. Next, path analysis was conducted to analyze the effect of performance factors on the score average through birdie. Par-save-average was affected by scoring average and putting average was validated as an important factor for birdie. After 2020, when the “New normal era”, such as players who were active on the overseas stage due to COVID-19, started moving to the domestic stage, if they trained for accurate putting, both Par-save-average and birdie would increase their performances.

Long-term and actual golf performance and their relation to putting success and accuracy in amateur players

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the putting skills of amateur players and the relationship between these skills and long-term and actual performance. The participants (n = 34) performed tests from different distances (1 m, 3 m, 5 m) and slopes (uphill, downhill, right-left, left-right). Based on these tests, the accuracy and success of their putting were measured. ANOVA results showed that performance on 1 m putts was more accurate and successful than 3 m and 5 m putts. Furthermore, 3 m putts were more accurate and successful than 5 m putts on all slopes (p < 0.001). The participants with HCP ≤ 5 were more successful than the HCP 5.1–12 and HCP ≥ 12.1 groups, and HCP 5.1–12 players were more successful than HCP ≥ 12.1 players in 1 m and 3 m putts (p = .046). Accuracy did not vary between HCP groups. Initial putt slopes influence accuracy (p < 0.001) and success (p = .0038). Downhill and left–right slopes are associated with lower accuracy than other slopes and downhill slopes provide the best success at all distances. This study showed that putting skills play a crucial role in shaping the golf performance of amateur players.

Return to Play and Performance in Golfers After Total Knee Arthroplasty: Does Component Type Matter?

Golf is a popular sport among patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The golf swing requires significant knee rotation, which may lead to changes in golfing ability postoperatively. The type of implant used may alter the swing mechanics or place different stresses on the knee. The purpose of this study was to evaluate golf performance and subjective stability after TKA and compare outcomes between cruciate-retaining (CR) and posterior-stabilized (PS) implants. Patients with CR implants will experience better stability during the golf swing compared to patients with PS implants. Retrospective cohort study. Level 3. Patients who underwent primary TKA were identified from the medical record and sent an electronic questionnaire focusing on return to play (RTP), performance, pain, and stability during the golf swing. Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were collected before and at multiple time points after surgery. Patients were surveyed postoperatively and asked to evaluate overall performance, pain, and stability before and after surgery. Outcomes were compared based on implant type. Most patients (81.5%) were able to return to golf at an average of 5.3 ± 3.1 months from surgery. The average postoperative KOOS was 74.6 ± 12.5 in patients able to RTP compared with 64.4 ± 9.5 in those who were not (P < 0.05). Knee pain during golf significantly improved from 6.4 ± 2.1 to 1.8 ± 2.2 (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in pain, performance, or stability between the CR and PS patients. Most patients can successfully return to golfing after TKA. Knee replacement offers patients reliable pain relief during the golf swing and fewer physical limitations during golf, with no detriment to performance. There is no difference in performance or subjective knee stability based on component type. Understanding associated outcomes of different TKA knee systems allows for unbiased and confident recommendations of either component to golfers receiving total knee replacement.

Golf as a physical activity to improve walking speed and cognition in older adults: A non-randomized, pre-post, pilot study

The aims of this non-randomized, pre-post, pilot investigation (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03916887) were to assess: 1) feasibility, safety, and adherence of a 10-week golf program for non-golfer older adults, 2) estimated effects of the program on single- (ST) and dual-task (DT) walking, and cognition, and 3) whether findings support development of a randomized controlled trial (RCT).Eligible participants included healthy male and female non-golfers, 60–80 years, who could walk independently, swing a golf club, and received medical clearance. The program, conducted at a golf course, focused on improving physical and cognitive function, as opposed to golf performance. ST and DT walking speeds were assessed on a ProtoKinetics Walkway, and cognitive changes using the California Verbal Learning Test II, and NIH Cognitive Toolbox. Of fifteen screened and enrolled participants, fourteen (7F and 7M, 69.5 ± 6.05 yrs) completed the study. One participant sustained a work-related injury and did not complete the study. Average attendance was 94.3%; there were no golf-related adverse events. Estimated increase in physical activity was 25.5% with small Hedges g effect size (ES). Estimated increases in CVLT II composite score (11.2%) and immediate recall (12.6%), and ST (7.2%) and DT (9.1%) walking speeds occurred with medium-large ES. Increases in NIH card sorting (9.3%) and composite (7.3%) scores had small ES's. In an exit survey, participants reported improved physical function, mental and social well-being, and all planned to continue playing golf. ES estimates suggest 50 participants per group will be required to adequately power (β = 0.8; p < 0.05) a future RCT. The study was funded by the Royal & Ancient Golf Association.

Return to Golf Following Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty.

The object of this study was to examine return to golf and changes in golf performance after shoulder arthroplasty. Additionally, we set out to determine if there were differences in return to play and performance between total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). We also examined pain during the golf swing to determine if there is a change in pain level after surgery. Patients were identified using a Current Procedural Terminology code 23472 search for TSA. A 19-question online survey was sent out to each patient with questions detailing golfing performance and pain during the swing before and after surgery. Comparisons were made to determine differences in pain, performance and enjoyment between TSA and RTSA groups before and after surgery. A total of 586 patients who underwent shoulder arthroplasty were sent the online survey via email. Of those patients, 33 identified themselves as golfers and who responded to the survey, resulting in an overall response rate of 5.6%. Twenty-three of 31 (74%) patients were able to return to golf following their procedure. Overall, the respondents who reported pain associated with golfing activity had significantly decreased pain after undergoing either TSA or RTSA. The RTSA group had a significant drop in driving distance following the procedure and this was significantly lower than the postoperative driving distance in the TSA group, despite an insignificant preoperative difference. Overall, TSA offers a safe and effective means for reducing pain during the golf swing in patients suffering from advanced shoulder osteoarthritis. While there were no significant changes in performance following TSA, individuals undergoing RTSA can be counseled that they are at risk for lower driving distances due to altered mechanics. Overall, patients were satisfied with their procedure and their ability to return to the golf course.

Deficits in the Star Excursion Balance Test and Golf Performance in Elite Golfers with Chronic Low Back Pain.

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether low-handicap elite golfers with chronic low back pain (CLBP) exhibit deficits in dynamic postural control and whether CLBP affects golfers in terms of their golf swing parameters. A total of fifteen Division 1 college golfers were recruited as participants. Of these, six of whom experienced CLBP, while the remaining participants were healthy. In this study, CLBP was defined as experiencing chronic pain symptoms for more than six months. The Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) was administered to examine dynamic posture control in both groups. The TrackMan Golf Launch Monitor Simulator was used to collect data on the performance parameters of the swing of the participants. The results for both feet in the medial, lateral, posterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions indicated that the CLBP group scored lower than the control group. However, the CLBP group scored higher for the right foot in the anterolateral direction. The parameters for the club speed and ball carry of the CLBP group were lower than those of the control group. Further, the CLBP group exhibited a more upright swing plane relative to the control group. Taken together, our findings suggest that SEBT may be feasible and highly accessible to assess golf swing performance of elite players with CLBP.

Return to golf and golf-specific performance after anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty

BackgroundGolf is a common sporting activity that patients continue to participate into older age, including after joint replacement surgery. The influence of shoulder replacement on golf performance remains unclear. We hypothesized that patients undergoing anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) would have significantly better return to play rates and better performance metrics, including handicap, driving distance, and 7-iron distance, after shoulder replacement relative to those treated with reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). MethodsPatients were retrospectively surveyed after anatomic TSA and RTSA with regards to return to golf and golf performance before and after shoulder replacement. Patients reported if they were able to return to golf after shoulder replacement, timing of return to golf, and driving distance, 7-iron distance, handicap, and difficulty with specific shot types upon returning to golf. Significance was defined as P < .05. ResultsThe survey was completed by 31 patients with a total of 37 replaced shoulders (68.0 ± 8.1 years; 87% male) out of 44 patients who indicated they played golf. The overall return to golf rate was 74%. Patients undergoing anatomic TSA returned at a significantly higher rate relative to patients treated with RTSA (93% [14 of 15] vs. 56% [9 of 16], P= .037). There was no difference between groups with regards to drive distance, 7-iron distance, and handicap. There were also no differences between preoperative and postoperative values for patients who were able to return to golf. Overall, patients played golf less frequently afterward than they did prior to shoulder replacement (P= .013). ConclusionPatients are able to return to golf after shoulder replacement, at an overall rate of 74%, including a rate of 93% for patients with anatomic TSA and 56% for patients with RTSA. Golf performance was similar before and after shoulder replacement surgery for both groups among those who were able to return to play, though overall frequency was decreased after shoulder replacement. Level of EvidenceLevel III; Retrospective Cohort Comparative Study

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.

The effects of different types of warm-up exercises on golf performance

Background and objective: Most studies of golf warm-up exercises have focused on the differences between static and dynamic stretching, while relatively few have compared them to post-activation potentiation (PAP) warm-up exercises. The current study aimed to verify the effects of different types of warm-up exercises on golf performance, with the goal of identifying an optimal strategy. Methods: A total of 30 elite golf players in their 20s and 30s were randomly assigned to three different groups of 10 participants each: the dynamic warm-up (DWU) group, the PAP group, and the swing warm-up (SWU) group. Driving distance, six-iron carry, club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, and accuracy were measured before and after each warm-up exercise. Results: Driving distance increased by 2.65% in the DWU group (P &lt; 0.001) and 2.21% in the PAP group (P &lt; 0.01). Carry also significantly increased by 2.30% in the DWU group (P &lt; 0.01) and 2.10% in the PAP group (P &lt; 0.01). The PAP group exhibited a six-iron carry increase of 3.35% (P &lt; 0.001) and a ball speed increase of 1.86% (P &lt; 0.05). In terms of accuracy, the rate of errors decreased by 47.49% in the DWU group (P &lt; 0.01). Conclusion: Among the golf-specific warm-up exercises investigated, DWU was identified as the most efficient exercise for improving total distance and accuracy. Such improvements can be attributed to increased mobility, as well as enhancements in swing size and the efficiency of the neuromuscular system. Thus, our results suggest that golf players should perform DWU exercises to improve their golf performance.

Association of anthropometrics and physical performance measures to golf-specific variables in collegiate male golfers.

As physical fitness has become more of a central component of competitive golf it is important to have an understanding of the relationship between anthropometric and physical performance on actual golf performance. Thus, the purpose of this investigation was to determine the relationship between measures of anthropometrics and physical performance to golf swing performance. Fourteen division I collegiate golfers performed a battery of tests including the vertical jump, grip strength, rotational medicine ball toss, and sit and reach test in addition to anthropometric measure measurements. Golf specific variables included clubhead speed (CHS), ball velocity (BV) and carry distance (CD) using the participants own driver. Pearson product moment correlations were used to assess the level of relationship between all variables. Statistically significant large positive relationships were found between grip strength and all golf specific variables. Height also showed large significant positive relationship with both CHS and BV. The association between anthropometrics and physical performance and golf specific variables appear to be limited in a group of collegiate male golfers, outside of grip strength. However, this does not mean that physical fitness is irrelevant to golf performance, but caution should be taken in assuming increase in physical performance will have a direct impact on the golf specific variables.

Clutch-Based Hypnotic Intervention to Improve Golf Performance: A Case Study

ABSTRACT This case study examined the effects of a clutch-based hypnotic intervention on the performance and experience of a senior PGA tour golfer. The intervention encompassed hypnosis, regression imagery, a trigger control technique, and a preshot routine. Golf performance data were analyzed using a single-subject design. The results indicated that the player’s mean stroke average decreased from baseline to postintervention. The qualitative data suggests that the hypnotic intervention may help golfers regulate emotions, thoughts, feelings, and perceptions associated with a clutch state experience.

남자 노인의 골프 수행력 향상을 위한 연구 : 동적 준비운동을 중심으로

우리나라 골프 열기는 미국, 유럽, 일본 등의 골프강국에 못지않다. 55세 이상의 시니어 골프 인구도 250만 명을 넘어섰으며, 이들은 골프참여 보다 골프경기력 향상에 관심이 높다. 그래서 본 연구에서는 남자 노인의 골프 수행력에 도움을 주기 위한 방안을 제시하기 위해 동적 준비운동이 골프 체력과 골프타구에 미치는 효과를 규명하여 동적 준비운동의 중요성을 강조하는데 목적을 두었다. 이를 실험집단(n=13)과 통제집단(n=14)으로 구분하여 사전-사후설계로 이원변량분석에 의한 반복측정을 실시하였다. 분석결과, 골프 체력에서는 유연성 요인이 상호작용 효과를 보였으며, 골프타구에서는 헤드 스피드, 비거리, 어택 앵글이 상호작용 효과가 나타나 동적 준비운동이 남자 노인의 골프 수행력에 도움을 준다는 결론을 얻었다. 따라서 지속적인 동적 준비운동을 통해 신체의 유연성 가동범위 증가로 헤드 스피드, 어택앵글에 긍정적 전이로 이어지게 되면서 비거리 향상과 함께 경기력 수준이 높아진다는 정보를 도출하게 되었다.

The effects of post activation potentiation warm-up and pre-shot routine programs on driving performance in amateur golfers

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of three different programs, i.e. active dynamic warm-up program plus functional resistance warm-up using Theraband plus pre-shot routine program (AFPR); pre-shot routine program (PR); and active dynamic warm-up program plus functional resistance warm-up using Theraband (AF) on driver club head speed, driving distance, and driving accuracy in the amateur golfers. Fifteen amateur golfers with an average age of 19.67 ± 0.89 years and 4.87 ± 1.77 points of average handicap were assigned to participate in either AFPR, PR or AF program. All participants in the three programs practiced three sessions on non-consecutive days per week during the intervention phase. Each participant’s performance was assessed before and after six weeks of the program through hitting ten maximal drives with the ball flight and swing analyzed using the P3ProSwing Golf Simulator and recorded for the driver club head speed, driving distance, and driving accuracy. Multivariate analysis of variance showed no statistically significant differences (P < .05) of the performances of the golfers participated in the 3 programs (club head speed: F = 1.02, P = 0.33; accuracy: F = 0.32, P = 0.72; distance: F = 0.18, P = 0.83). Furthermore, a paired t-tests also showed no statistically significant (P < .05) improvement occurred in the 3 programs after the six-week training. Although the effect of the 3 programs did not show statistically significant increase in the performance of the amateur golfers, however, the three parameters of the performance, i.e. the driver club head speed, the driving distance and the driving accuracy showed certain improvements. The 3 training programs may have benefit to the amateur golfers with certain increases of their performance.

Acute Effects of Self-Selected Music Intervention on Golf Performance and Anxiety Level in Collegiate Golfers: A Crossover Study.

Music has been reported as a positive intervention for improving psychophysiological conditions and exercise performance. However, the effects of music intervention on golf performance in association with psychophysiological responses have not been well examined in the literature. The purpose of the study was to investigate the acute effects of self-selected music intervention on golf swing and putting performance, heart rate (HR), HR variability (HRV), and anxiety. Twenty collegiate golfers voluntarily participated in this study (age = 20.2 ± 1.4 years, height = 171.7 ± 8.0 cm, body weight = 69.5 ± 14.6 kg, golf experience = 7.5 ± 2.1 years). A cross-over and within-subject design was used in this study. Participants performed a non-music trial (T1), pre-exercise music trial (T2), and simultaneous music trial (T3) in a randomized order with 48–72 h apart. The participants were attached to a HR monitor to record the HR and HRV during the measurement. The golf swing and putting performance was assessed by using the Golfzon golf simulator system. The state-trait anxiety inventory-state questionnaire (STAI-S) was used to evaluate anxiety state. All measurements were taken during baseline (phase one) and after resting or music intervention (phase two). Repeated measurement of analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Cohen’s effect size (ES) were used for statistical analyses. The results show no significant differences in golf swing and putting performance (p > 0.05). However, significant decrease in STAI-S score was found in T2 (p = 0.047, ES = 0.32). A significant increase in the standard deviation of normal R-R interval (SDNN), low-frequency power spectrum (LF), standard deviation of along the line-of-identity (SD2) in T2 and T3 were observed (p < 0.05). In conclusion, a single pre-exercise or simultaneous self-selected music intervention contributes minor effects to golf performance in collegiate golfers. The positive benefits of self-selected music intervention on the psychological condition and cardia-related modulation while practicing golf is warranted.

Revisiting the Nesbit and McGinnis optimization model of the golf swing hub path.

This article details the development of adopting the Nesbit and McGinnis model of the golf swing as a starting point for studying golf performance optimization. The model was selected as it presents an opportunity to examine how non-naïve participants can learn and improve their swing mechanics, which could prove valuable in studying human learning in sports, rehabilitation, and re-education. Kinematic data was acquired in laboratory and real-world environments using the motion capture systems Qualysis and CodaMotion CX-Sport, respectively. In the early stages of developing the model in MATLAB, we identified limitations in the Nesbit and McGinnis methodology, including the filtering techniques applied to swing vectors and the selection of swing variables and the solutions to their boundary conditions solutions during the downswing. By addressing these issues, our goal was to revise the model and make it more robust and capable of optimizing the impact velocities from a wider variety of subjects with varying swing mechanics. By increasing the cutoff frequency used to filter the swing vectors and expanding the swing variable polynomial equations, we found it was possible for all participants to increase their club head velocity at impact while respecting their unique kinematic limitations. The manner of the kinematic changes and the percent of velocity improvement are participant dependent. Our study showed that the observed and optimized hub paths differed among participants, which suggests participants might also differ in their approaches and capacities to adopt the latter.