Assessment of golf-specific skill performance: a systematic review, 3D visualization, and standardized testing...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Golf Performance Analysis

Background:

• Limited research exists on standardized golf performance assessment methods.
• Existing golf skill testing often focuses on driving and putting, neglecting iron play and chipping.
• Current assessment methods lack standardization in shot counts and variable selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing golf performance evaluation methods.
• To visually analyze the design principles and indicator systems of current golf tests.
• To propose an optimized, standardized testing framework for golf skills.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search following PRISMA guidelines.
• Inclusion of 13 studies from major scientific databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, etc.).
• 3D visualization to analyze and present design principles and indicator systems.

Main Results:

• Existing golf skill assessments are heavily concentrated on driving and putting.
• Iron and chipping skill evaluations are significantly underrepresented in current research.
• Lack of standardization in shot numbers and measurement variables, with an overemphasis on biomechanics over the core objective of holing out.

Conclusions:

• A standardized modular testing framework centered on "target-hitting" is proposed.
• The framework includes modules for ball-striking zones, target zones, shot distance, and club selection.
• This adaptable framework offers a scientific reference for golf research, training, and performance evaluation.