Lower Limb Biomechanical Characteristics During Swing in High Skilled Male Golfers

This study investigated lower-limb biomechanical differences during swings with a driver, 5-iron, and 7-iron in high skilled male college golfers (15 Division I golfers). Golfers were analyzed using motion capture and force measurement techniques to observe pelvic movement, knee motion, and the way force was applied through the feet during the swing. The results showed that the driver swing produced greater early loading in the lead foot and larger pelvic rotation amplitude; this pattern may reflect a strategy focused on generating and transferring power, but this interpretation remains a hypothesis because clubhead speed and power output were not directly measured. The 5-iron swing showed a mixed pattern, with greater control during the finish and more movement at the trail knee during follow-through, indicating a balance between power and control. The 7‑iron swing showed a more stable force pattern overall, greater upward force through the lead foot late in the swing, and a distinct rotational demand at the right knee during follow‑through; these features might suggest an emphasis on stability and precision, but this functional framing is tentative pending verification with accuracy and EMG data. These findings demonstrate that skilled golfers employ distinct biomechanical strategies tailored to each club's functional demands. This knowledge provides a scientific basis for developing club-specific training programs to enhance performance and potentially reduce injury risk in golf.