Effect of Caffeine on Golf Performance and Fatigue during a Competitive Tournament

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Nutritional Science
• Human Performance

Background:

• Caffeine is a widely used ergogenic aid known to affect physiological and psychological responses.
• Its specific impact on golf performance, particularly during extended play, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of a caffeine-containing supplement on golf-specific performance metrics.
• To assess the impact of caffeine on perceived fatigue and energy levels during a competitive 36-hole golf tournament.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study involving 12 male golfers.
• Participants consumed either a caffeine supplement (CAF) or placebo (PLA) before and during two 18-hole rounds.
• Performance (score, drive distance, greens in regulation) and physiological/perceptual measures (fatigue, energy) were recorded.

Main Results:

• Caffeine consumption led to statistically significant improvements in total score, greens in regulation, and drive distance compared to placebo.
• Participants reported increased energy and decreased fatigue with caffeine supplementation.
• No significant differences were observed in heart rate, breathing rate, or trunk kinematics.

Conclusions:

• A moderate dose of caffeine effectively enhances golf-specific performance in skilled golfers.
• Caffeine supplementation can mitigate feelings of fatigue during prolonged golf play.
• These findings support the use of caffeine as an ergogenic aid for golfers seeking performance improvements.