Effects of eighteen holes of simulated golf on the performance of recreational golfers

It is important to investigate how the golf swing changes with extended play because fatigue affects the performance of athletes playing sports similar to golf. Golf is a physically demanding sport when playing 18 holes while walking and carrying a bag. The effect of playing 18 holes of golf on the mechanics and swing outcome of the golfer are currently unknown. The knowledge of how extended play affects the golf swing will aid golfers, golf coaches, and researchers in understanding proper golf training and play affected swing mechanics. This study investigates the effect of playing 18 holes of simulated golf on the mechanics and performance of the golfer. A total of seven male and female recreational golfers scoring between 80 and 95 on 18 holes of walked golf were recruited for 3-D motion analysis of 140 tee shots. Mechanical variables and outcome variables at three phases of the golf swing were tested over time to evaluate the relationship between time (playing golf), mechanical variables, and the outcome of the golf shot tested statistically using path analysis. Weight transfer to the lead leg at ball contact was significantly related to club head velocity (CHV). Over time, golfers were less able to achieve a weight transfer to the lead leg, which was directly related to the golfers' club head velocity. The lead knee and lead ankle angles were also affected by time, which had an influence on club head velocity. These results suggest that golfers do change their swing throughout the course of 18 holes of walked golf and there are key swing mechanics which significantly influence golf performance.School of Physical Education, Sport, and Exercise ScienceThesis (M.S.