Test-Retest Reliability of Task Performance for Golf Swings of Medium- to High-Handicap Players

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Golf Performance Analysis

Background:

• Reliable measurement of golf swing performance is crucial for research and applied settings, particularly for medium- to high-handicap players.
• Existing test-retest evidence for golf swing variables is limited, primarily focusing on low-handicap players.
• A gap exists in understanding the necessary number of attempts for reliable swing performance measurement in amateur golfers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the optimal number of swings required for a reliable measurement protocol of golf swing performance variables.
• To establish test-retest reliability for swing performance metrics in medium- to high-handicap golfers.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for golf swing data collection in research and practice.

Main Methods:

• A test-retest design was employed with ten amateur golfers (mean age 55.67 years).
• Participants completed two experimental sessions one week apart, performing fifteen swings with a six iron and a driver in each session.
• Swing performance variables were assessed using a 3D Doppler tracking golf radar.

Main Results:

• Variables associated with side carry distance could not be reliably measured within fifteen trials (ICC < 0.26).
• Reliable measurement of club and ball trajectory variables was achieved with 7–10 swings.
• The study identified specific swing counts for reliable data collection using 3D Doppler radar technology.

Conclusions:

• A minimum of seven swings with a driver and ten swings with a six iron are recommended for reliable golf swing performance measurement in medium- to high-handicap players.
• The findings provide a practical guideline for researchers and coaches to optimize data collection efficiency and accuracy.
• This study addresses a critical need for reliable swing analysis protocols in a broader range of golfing abilities.