A systematic review of strength and conditioning programmes designed to improve fitness characteristics in golfers

Relationships and Within-Group Differences in Physical Attributes and Golf Performance in Elite Amateur Female Players

The aim of the present study was to examine the association between a comprehensive physical testing battery and measures of golf performance in elite female amateur players. Nineteen category one (handicap ≤ 5) or better golfers (age: 16.26 ± 1.28 years, height: 166.26 ± 3.62 cm, mass: 64.04 ± 11.27 kg, wingspan: 146.53 ± 15.59 cm, handicap: +1.45 ± 0.7) volunteered to participate in this investigation. All golfers attended a single 90 min testing session where golf shot data (clubhead speed [CHS], ball speed, carry distance, and smash factor) were measured with a Trackman 4 launch monitor and a battery of physical assessments were carried out. These included anthropometric data and assessments for seated thoracic rotation, the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), isometric bench press, countermovement jump (CMJ), and seated medicine ball throws for distance. Pearson's r correlations showed CHS was the golf metric that most commonly demonstrated large associations with physical testing data, most notably with force at 100 ms during the isometric bench press (r = 0.70). Median split analysis was also conducted for the IMTP (force at 200 ms), isometric bench press (force at 100 ms), and CMJ (positive impulse). The results showed that players who produced more force at 200 ms during the IMTP exhibited a greater CHS (g = 1.13), ball speed (g = 0.90), and carry distance (g = 1.01). In addition, players with a greater positive impulse during the CMJ showed a greater ball speed (g = 0.93), carry distance (g = 1.29), and smash factor (g = 1.27). Collectively, these results highlight the relevance of explosive force production capabilities in both the lower and upper body for female golfers. This information can be used by practitioners to better target key physical attributes during testing and training of female players.

Effects of Physical Training and Associations Between Physical Performance Characteristics and Golf Performance in Female Players: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT

Robinson, L, Murray, A, Ehlert, A, Wells, J, Jarvis, P, Turner, A, Glover, D, Coughlan, D, Hembrough, R, and Bishop, C. Effects of physical training and associations between physical performance characteristics and golf performance in female players: A systematic review with meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res 37(12): e646-e655, 2023-The aims of this systematic review were to assess the association between physical performance and measures of golf performance, and the effects of physical training on measures of golf performance, in female golfers. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Medline, and CINAHL. Inclusion criteria required studies to (a) have conducted a physical training intervention of any duration in female players and determine the effects on measures of golf performance, (b) determine the association between physical performance in at least one test and golf performance in female players, and (c) be peer-reviewed and published in English language. Methodological quality was assessed using a modified version of the Downs and Black Quality Index tool, and heterogeneity was examined through the Q statistic and I2 . Pooled effect sizes were calculated using standardized mean differences (SMDs) (with 95% confidence interval [CI]s) within a random-effects model, with Egger's regression test used to assess small study bias (inclusive of publication bias). Of the 2,378 articles screened, only 9 were included in the final review, with 3 of these being associative by design and 6 being training interventions. From an associative standpoint, clubhead speed (CHS) was reported in all 3 studies and was associated with measures of strength ( r = 0.54), lower-body power ( r = 0.60), upper-body power ( r = 0.56-0.57), and flexibility ( r = 0.52-0.71). When assessing the effects of physical training interventions, CHS was again the most commonly reported golf outcome measure ( n = 5). The random-effect model indicated that CHS significantly improves within each training group following training interventions (SMD = 0.73 [95% CIs: 0.32-1.14], Z = 3.50, p < 0.001), with trivial heterogeneity ( I2 = 0.00%, Q = 0.18; p = 0.9963) and no prevalence of small study bias depicted through the Egger's regression test ( z = -0.28, p = 0.78). From the available research, it seems that CHS can be positively affected from strength, power, and flexibility training interventions. From an associative standpoint, only 3 studies have been conducted solely in female players, with one showcasing questionable methodology. Future research should aim to carefully select test measures which better represent the physical capacities needed for the sport when determining the effects of and relationships with golf performance.

Within- and Between-Session Reliability of Golf Swing Variables Using the TrackMan Launch Monitor in Talented Golfers

ABSTRACT

Shaw, J, Gould, ZI, Oliver, JL, and Lloyd, RS. Within- and between-session reliability of golf swing variables using the TrackMan launch monitor in talented golfers. J Strength Cond Res 37(12): 2431-2437, 2023-The purpose of the current study was to establish the within- and between-session reliability of the TrackMan launch monitor to measure golf swing variables. Twenty-one golfers attended 2 test sessions, with data captured from 3 golf shots using a 6-iron and 3 using a driver. Club head speed (CHS), ball speed, smash factor, attack angle, club path, launch angle, spin rate, spin axis, carry distance, and total distance were determined from data collected using a TrackMan launch monitor. Within- and between-session reliability for each variable was calculated using repeated-measures analysis of variance, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and coefficients of variation (CVs) with 95% confidence intervals. Within-session measures of CHS, ball speed, carry distance, and total distance were found to be reliable for both 6-iron and driver (CV ≤ 5.8, ICC ≥ 0.87) and launch angle for the 6-iron (CV = 6.7-9.3%, ICC = 0.87-0.92). Between-session measures of CHS, ball speed, smash factor, launch angle, carry distance, and total distance for both 6-iron and driver (CV% = 0.7-9.1%, ICC = 0.5-0.99) and spin rate for 6-iron (CV% = 9.4%, ICC = 0.89) were also shown to be reliable. These findings indicate that the TrackMan launch monitor is a reliable method for measuring CHS, ball speed, carry distance, and total distance in talented golfers, both within and between sessions. Practitioners can confidently use these variables to assess golf swing performance in golfers and evaluate meaningful changes in response to training interventions.

Effects of left thigh blood flow restriction exercise on muscle strength and golf performance in amateur golfers

This study aimed to investigate the effect of lower-extremity strengthening exercise (LSE) with and without blood flow restriction (BFR) on the left thigh on golf performance. Eighteen amateur golfers with more than 1 year of golf experience participated in the study and were randomly divided into two groups: LSE+BFR group (LSE with BFR on the left thigh, n=9) and LSE group (LSE without BFR, n=9). The LSEs consisted of squats, lunges, and standing leg curls. All exercises were performed 3 times a week for 6 weeks. Changes in thigh muscle strength, plantar foot pressure (weight transfer), and golf performance, such as club head speed, ball speed, and carry distance were measured before and after the exercise program. Right knee extension (P<0.001) and left knee extension and flexion (P<0.001) strength were higher in the LSE+BFR group than in the LSE group. The changes in plantar foot pressure confirmed that smooth weight transfer appeared in E1 (event 1) (address) (P<0.05) of the LSE+BFR group, which confirmed that the carry distance (P<0.05) of the LSE+BFR group improved after the exercise program. The results of this study showed that BFR muscle strengthening exercise are more effective than basic simple muscle strengthening exercise in improving golf performance through muscle strength and weight transfer improvement.

Influence of muscle strength, power, and rapid force capacity on maximal club head speed in male national level golfers

This study investigated the relationships between maximal club head speed (CHS) and physiological and anthropometric parameters in 21 national-level male golfers (age: 21.9 ± 3.9 years; handicap: +1.1 ± 1.7). Maximal isometric strength (MVC) was measured during isometric mid-thigh pull and bench press, while MVC and rate of force development (RFD) were measured during isometric leg press. Power, lower limb stiffness, positive impulse, jump height and RFDdyn were measured during countermovement jump (CMJ). Moreover, rotational trunk power, active range of motion (AROM) and anthropometrics were determined. Comparisons were made between participants with high (FTG) and low (STG) CHS, respectively. FTG demonstrated greater isometric mid-thigh pull and isometric bench press MVC, leg press RFD, rotational trunk power, and CMJ parameters (except RFDdyn) as well as reduced hip AROM compared to STG (P < 0.01). CHS was positively correlated to isometric mid-thigh pull and isometric bench press MVC, leg press RFD, rotational trunk power and CMJ parameters (P < 0.01). In conclusion, strong positive correlations were observed between maximal CHS and maximal strength and power parameters. Consequently, improving maximal neuromuscular strength and power may be considered of importance for golfers, as greater CHS and accompanying driving distance may lead to competitive advantages.

Competitive Golf: How Longer Courses Are Changing Athletes and Their Approach to the Game

Nutritional guidance for competitive golfers to improve performance is limited. Recommendations and study conclusions from older research used smaller golf courses compared to today and require a reevaluation of energy expenditure. This review identifies aerobic fitness, in addition to strength, as a key determinant of success. A novel nutritional approach that incorporates carbohydrate supplementation to support aerobic fitness without sacrificing the ability to build strength is presented since longer courses require more stamina. Strategies for training, competition, and recovery are outlined based on different skill levels. American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) guidelines for carbohydrates, protein, and hydration intake are tailored specifically for competitive golf based on this approach. Putting requires precise movement and can be affected by fatigue. Nutritional studies in golf and similar sports that require focused movements are presented, exhibiting an improvement with adequate hydration and carbohydrate status and caffeine use. Competitive golf poses unique challenges to an athlete and commonly used ergogenic supplements that can improve performance in a variety of circumstances during training, competition, and while traveling are reviewed.

Effect of concurrent training on trainability performance factors in youth elite golf players

Background

Due to the early specialization of golf players, examining the within session sequence of training should be considered to enhance performance and prevent injury risk. The present study analyzed the effects of an 18-week concurrent training developed before or after a specific golf session in adolescence elite golfers on several performance factors.

Methods

Sixteen right-handed male golfers, were randomly divided into two groups: after golf specific training (AG) (n = 8, age: 16.77 ± 0.58 years) and before golf specific training (BG) (n = 8, age: 16.93 ± 0.59 years). AG and BG players followed a concurrent physical conditioning program (CT) after or before the golf specific training, respectively. Body mass, body fat, muscle mass, jumping ability (CMJ), ball speed (Sball), golf movements screens (GMS), power in a golf swing-specific cable woodchop (Wmax) and the perceived training load (TL) in golf specific training (TL-G) and TL in CT (TL-CT) were measured on three separate occasions.

Results

BG demonstrates a lower TL-CT than AG (p < .001, \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{upgreek} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document} }{}${\eta }_{p}^{2}=0.90$\end{document}ηp2=0.90) along the training program without effects on TL-G, achieving significant percentage of change on CMJ (9.38%; p = .165; d = 0.73), GMS (50.52%; p = .41, d = 0.91), Wmax (16.93%; p = .001; d = 2.02) and Sball (1.82%; p = .018; d = 0.92) without interaction effects on anthropometric measures.

Conclusions

Performing CT sessions before the regular golf training can improve specific performance factors with a lower perceived TL than the same training carried out after the regular golf training.

The correlations between physical attributes and golf clubhead speed: A systematic review with quantitative analyses

Clubhead speed (CHS) is a commonly assessed golf performance measure and has been demonstrated to increase in response to physical training. Knowledge of the physical attributes that correlate with CHS will aid in developing effective testing and training protocols for golfers. Thus, the purpose of this review was to identify studies that evaluated the correlation between physical attributes and CHS and synthesise the correlation coefficients using three-level meta-analytic methods. Physical attributes were categorised first by general physical attribute categories. Pooled correlations were also estimated for specific attributes (e.g. jump height, body mass) that were evaluated across three or more studies. The results suggested that CHS had the strongest correlations with measures of upper body power/explosiveness (r = 0.51, 95% confidence interval [95CI]: 0.34, 0.67), lower body strength (r = 0.46; 95CI: 0.27, 0.66), upper body strength (r = 0.41; 95CI: 0.18, 0.63), and lower body power/explosiveness (r = 0.38; 95CI: 0.23, 0.53). Muscle endurance (r = 0.18; 95CI: 0.07, 0.28) and anthropometrics (r = 0.27; 95CI: 0.12, 0.42) had small, but significant correlations, while flexibility (r = 0.03; 95CI: -0.08, 0.14) had a trivial correlation. Several specific assessments such as squat strength, estimated jump power, and medicine ball throw outcomes had large pooled correlations with CHS (r = 0.55-0.63). Overall, the results suggest that measures of muscle strength and power/explosiveness have moderate-large correlations with CHS. Flexibility measures did not have significant associations with CHS, but this may be a result of the specific measures used within the literature.

The effects of strength and conditioning interventions on golf performance: A systematic review

There is a growing body of literature on strength and conditioning (S&C) interventions for golfers of various skill levels. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of S&C interventions on measures of golf performance (clubhead speed, ball speed, distance, etc.). Three databases (PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science) were searched and twenty-five studies identified that evaluated the effects of a S&C intervention on at least one golf performance measure compared to a control or comparison group. Most studies used combinations of strength training, plyometrics, stretching or core exercise, with many finding a benefit. Though it varied across studies and outcomes, average increases in clubhead speed, ball speed and distance measures were 4-6.4% when significant findings were synthesized. Four studies also found significant changes to golf swing kinematics, while three others found positive effects on measures of accuracy or consistency. Future research should compare different S&C interventions, explore the role of training status, skill level and intervention duration on the effects of S&C interventions, and report individual responses in addition to group data. Further, research should continue to evaluate effects on swing kinematics, accuracy and direct golf performance measures (e.g., handicap index).

Physical Determinants of Golf Swing Performance: A Review

Sheehan, WB, Bower, RG, and Watsford, ML. Physical determinants of golf swing performance: A review. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2019-Traditionally, golf practice has primarily focused on the mental, technical, and skill aspects as the primary means to improve performance. Only recently has a greater emphasis been placed on the physical components with balance, muscular strength, power, and specific muscle-tendon properties demonstrating positive associations with club head speed and carry distance. Accordingly, this review will explore the influence of these physical components on measures of golf swing performance. Superior balance may allow players to effectively deal with the need to shift weight during the swing as well as different stance positions, whereas superior lower-body muscular strength, power, and stiffness may allow more mechanical work to be performed on the club during the swing per unit of time, consequently increasing club head speed. Alternatively, flexibility may also contribute to enhanced force production with a greater range of motion, particularly when generating the "X-factor," allowing for a longer backswing and more time to produce higher angular velocities and forces. Furthermore, training intervention studies focusing on the aforementioned components have demonstrated enhancements in swing performance. Targeting multiple muscle groups, including those implicated via electromyography activation, and utilizing multiple modalities have proven effective at increasing club head speed. However, such multifaceted programs have made it difficult to determine the mechanisms that specifically contribute to performance gains. Despite these limitations, strength, power, and musculotendinous stiffness, particularly in the lower body, seem to be stronger determinants of club head speed and carry distance than flexibility. Furthermore, acute improvements can be induced using resistance-orientated warm-ups.

Development of a community-based golf and exercise program for people with Parkinson's disease

Individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) typically display symptoms of rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability that can limit participation in recreational activities. The purpose of this clinical report is to describe the development, implementation, and outcomes of a novel and innovative community-based golf and exercise program for individuals with PD. In response to community interest, the program was developed through a unique partnership that blended the expertise of physical therapists and golf professionals. The 6-week program consisted of golf instruction and task-specific exercises. Improvements were noted in seven of eight participants for golf performance (driving distance and club head speed) and quality of life (PD Questionnaire-39) outcome measures. This report describes the design and implementation of a golf and exercise program for people with PD based on community need, evidence, and clinical expertise. Considerations and recommendations for future programs are discussed, such as program length, staffing, volunteers, funding, location, and resources.

Examination of the neuromechanical factors contributing to golf swing performance

This study investigated the relationship between a range of neuromechanical variables in the lower- and upper-body, and golf performance. Participants were assessed for individual muscle stiffness, vertical stiffness (Kvert), flexibility, power and maximal isometric strength. Furthermore, golf performance was determined by handicap and club head speed. Pearson's correlations quantified the relationships between neuromechanical variables and performance measures. Participants were also separated into relatively high club head speed (HC) and low club head speed (LC) groups and compared for physical characteristics. Club head speed showed positive relationships with Kvert and power and a negative relationship with hip mobility. The HC group exhibited superior Kvert and power, while strength and flexibility measures were not related to performance. Higher levels of lower-body stiffness, rate of force development and power output appear to be beneficial for generating superior club head speed. A stiffer system may reduce the time needed to remove the "slack" from the series elastic component therefore, reducing electromechanical delay and enhancing rate of force development. The large positive association with rate of force development suggests that increasing this component, along with power production may be superior focal components for training in golfers due to the short duration of the downswing.

Development of a golf-specific load monitoring tool: Content validity and feasibility

Athletes often record details of their training and competitions, supported by information such as environmental conditions, travel, as well as how they felt. However, it is not known how prevalent these practices are in golfers, or how valuable this process is perceived. The purpose of this study was to develop a golf-specific load monitoring tool (GLMT), and establish the content validity and feasibility of this tool amongst high-level golfers. In the first phase of development, 21 experts were surveyed to determine the suitability of items for inclusion in the GLMT. Of the 36 items, 21 received >78% agreement, a requirement to establish content validity and for inclusion in the GLMT. Total duration was the preferred metric for golf-specific activities, whilst rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was preferred for measuring physical training. In the second phase, feasibility of the tool was assessed by surveying 13 high-level male golfers following 28-days of daily GLMT use. All items included in the GLMT were deemed feasible to record, with all players participating in the feasibility study providing high to very high ratings. Golfers responded that they would consider using a load monitoring tool of this nature long term, provided it can be completed in less than five minutes per day.

Physical Characteristics of Youth Elite Golfers and Their Relationship With Driver Clubhead Speed

Coughlan, D, Taylor, M, Jackson, J, Ward, N, and Beardsley, C. Physical characteristics of youth elite golfers and their relationship with driver clubhead speed. J Strength Cond Res 34(1): 212-217, 2020-Increased clubhead speed (CHS) has a strong relationship with golf performance and is related to athletic qualities in adult golfers. Research investigating the youth golfer is limited. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between strength and power on CHS in youth golfers. A correlational design was used to assess relationships between CHS and anthropometric, strength, and power measurements. Thirty-six male and 33 female golfers aged 13-17 took part in this study. Male golfers showed significant relationships between CHS and handicap (HCP) (r = -0.50), seated medicine ball throw to the left (SMBTL) (r = 0.67), and right (SMBTR) (r = 0.61), rotational medicine ball throw to the left (RMBTL) (r = 0.71), and right RMBTR (r = 0.62). Female golfers showed significant relationships between CHS and HCP (r = -0.52), mass (r = 0.72), countermovement jump power (r = 0.60), RMBTL (r = 0.57), RMBTR (r = 0.56). Multiple stepwise linear regression analysis identified 77% of the variance in CHS could be explained through SMBTL and RMBTL in males. In females, 84% of the variance in CHS could be explained through mass, RMBTR, and height. This study demonstrated relationships between CHS and body mass and upper-, lower-, and full-body concentric dominant power exercises. This study could aid in the development of training interventions for youth golfers.

The short-term effects of trigger point therapy, stretching and medicine ball exercises on accuracy and back swing hip turn in elite, male golfers - A randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare the effect of myofascial trigger point therapy (MTPT) and stretching, MTPT and medicine ball exercises, and no intervention, on hip flexor length (HFL), golf swing biomechanics and performance in elite, male golfers.

DESIGN

Single blind, randomised controlled trial with two experimental groups (stretch group: MTPT and stretching; and the ball group: MTPT, a single stretch and medicine ball exercises) and one control group (no intervention).

SETTING

Professional golf academy.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred, elite, male golfers aged 16-25 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

HFL, 3D biomechanical analysis of the golf swing, club head speed (CHS), smash ratio, accuracy and distance at baseline and after the interventions.

RESULTS

Backswing hip turn (BSHT) improved in the ball group relative to the control group (p = 0.0248). Accuracy in the ball group and the stretch group improved relative to the control group (Fisher's exact = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

Other performance parameters such as: smash ratio, distance and CHS were not compromised by either intervention. This study advocates the use of MTPT combined with medicine ball exercises over MTPT combined with stretching in the treatment of golfers with shortened hip flexors - even immediately preceding a tournament.

Improving performance in golf: current research and implications from a clinical perspective

Golf, a global sport enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, involves relatively long periods of low intensity exercise interspersed with short bursts of high intensity activity. To meet the physical demands of full swing shots and the mental and physical demands of putting and walking the course, it is frequently recommended that golfers undertake golf-specific exercise programs. Biomechanics, motor learning, and motor control research has increased the understanding of the physical requirements of the game, and using this knowledge, exercise programs aimed at improving golf performance have been developed. However, while it is generally accepted that an exercise program can improve a golfer's physical measurements and some golf performance variables, translating the findings from research into clinical practice to optimise an individual golfer's performance remains challenging. This paper discusses how biomechanical and motor control research has informed current practice and discusses how emerging sophisticated tools and research designs may better assist golfers improve their performance.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of linear and undulating periodized resistance training programs on muscular strength

Periodization is known to improve training adaptations but the most effective periodization approach for muscular strength development for a wide variety of populations is yet to be determined. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined all studies directly comparing linear and undulating periodized resistance training programs to determine and compare their effects on muscular strength. A systematic search of the MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and SPORTDiscus databases revealed 17 studies satisfying the inclusion criteria. There were a total of 510 participants in the included studies. Sixteen studies reported significant increases in strength for both periodization approaches. Five studies reported significant differences in improvements between groups. The meta-analyses determined that there were no differences in the effectiveness of linear vs. undulating periodization on upper-body or lower-body strength. The short-term nature of studies and the previous training history of participants were identified as potential confounding factors in the interpretation of findings. The results suggest that novelty or training variety are important for stimulating further strength development. Few studies have examined the effect of periodization approaches in adolescent or athletic populations.

Evidence for biomechanics and motor learning research improving golf performance

The aim of this review was to determine how the findings of biomechanics and motor control/learning research may be used to improve golf performance. To be eligible, the biomechanics and motor learning studies had to use direct (ball displacement and shot accuracy) or indirect (clubhead velocity and clubface angle) golf performance outcome measures. Biomechanical studies suggested that reducing the radius path of the hands during the downswing, increasing wrist torque and/or range of motion, delaying wrist motion to late in the downswing, increasing downswing amplitude, improving sequential acceleration of body parts, improving weight transfer, and utilising X-factor stretch and physical conditioning programmes can improve clubhead velocity. Motor learning studies suggested that golf performance improved more when golfers focused on swing outcome or clubhead movement rather than specific body movements. A distributed practice approach involving multiple sessions per week of blocked, errorless practice may be best for improving putting accuracy of novice golfers, although variable practice may be better for skilled golfers. Video, verbal, or a combination of video and verbal feedback can increase mid-short iron distance in novice to mid-handicap (hcp) golfers. Coaches should not only continue to critique swing technique but also consider how the focus, structure, and types of feedback for practice may alter learning for different groups of golfers.