Kinematic determinants of performance parameters during golf swing

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Golf performance relies on complex trunk and pelvis kinematics.
• Specific joint contributions to golf performance parameters remain unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify key upper and lower trunk joints associated with golf performance parameters.
• Analyze relationships between joint kinematics and golf performance metrics like X-Factor and pelvis motion.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 3D motion capture system for kinematic data acquisition.
• Analyzed golf swings from 10 low-handicap male golfers.
• Employed regression analysis to identify predictor variables.

Main Results:

• Specific joint movements (e.g., right knee adduction, shoulder rotation, elbow extension) predicted X-Factor.
• Pelvis posterior tilt and rotation during downswing/follow-through were strongly associated with pelvis motion.
• Identified key predictor variables for X-Factor and pelvis movement parameters.

Conclusions:

• Provides fundamental insights into the movement mechanisms of major joints in golf.
• Establishes relationships between specific joint kinematics and golf performance parameters.
• Findings can guide targeted training for enhanced golfing skill and injury prevention.