Relationships between physical and biomechanical parameters and golf drive performance: A field-based study

Andrew Green, Chloe Dafkin, Samantha Kerr, Warrick McKinon

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

A proficient golf swing is composed of a sequence of highly complex biomechanical movements and requires precisely timed and coordinated body movements to achieve great distance and accuracy. The aim of the current study was to identify the key physiological and biomechanical variables that relate to golf drive performance. Eighteen golfers (handicap 11±6 strokes, playing experience 18±15 years), volunteered to take part in the study. Drive distance and accuracy were measured directly. Balance was assessed using a modified stork test and hand-eye coordination was assessed using a 3D maze. Average balance duration of both legs (r= 0.563; p=0.015), left leg (r= 0.620; p=0.006) and right leg (r= 0.488; p=0.044) were all significantly correlated to drive distance. Hand-eye coordination was significantly negatively correlated to total drive distance (r=-0.600 p=0.008), but was not associated significantly with the centre of hit between the clubface and ball. Several parameters were found to have significant relationships to golf drive distance in a group of amateur golfers. Therefore, training regimes could include tasks that aim to improve hand-eye coordination and balance.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)83-95
Number of pages13
JournalSouth African Journal for Research in Sport, Physical Education and Recreation
Volume37
Issue number3
Publication statusPublished - 2015
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Balance
  • Biomechanics
  • Co-ordination
  • Golf
  • Performance

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Education
  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Relationships between physical and biomechanical parameters and golf drive performance: A field-based study'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this