The Use of Golf Carts as On-Course Transportation During Competitive Golf Events: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Sports Ethics

Background:

• Golf is a globally popular sport with established competitive schedules for elite male, female, and disabled athletes.
• The use of golf carts in elite competition raises significant scientific, legal, and ethical questions regarding inclusivity and competitive fairness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate evidence on golf cart use versus walking concerning inclusivity, safety, and competitive fairness.
• To identify knowledge gaps and research priorities related to golf cart usage in golf.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review was conducted, searching multiple databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest Central) and grey literature.
• Methodology followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, with data extraction by independent reviewers and thematic analysis.
• 72 studies were included from an initial 879 identified articles.

Main Results:

• Golf carts significantly improve accessibility, particularly for individuals with disabilities.
• Reduced physical exertion (energy expenditure, distance covered) was observed with golf cart use, though performance impacts remain uncertain.
• Safety concerns are primarily linked to operator error and use in non-elite or public highway settings.

Conclusions:

• Golf carts can enhance inclusivity and aid compliance with accessibility regulations.
• Riding golf carts may decrease the health benefits of golf and introduce injury risks.
• In competitive play, golf carts reduce physical demands and may confer a performance advantage, warranting further research into permissible use and competitive impact.