Walking The Golf Course Affects Swing And Performance
A study presented at the 55th American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Annual Meeting has shown that golfers change their swing and key swing mechanics throughout the course of 18 holes of walked golf.
The researchers examine the relationship between time, mechanical variables, and performance variables related to the golf swing. The mechanical variables included ground reaction forces bilaterally; sagittal plane ankle, knee, and hip angles; angular velocity of the pelvis and thorax, and their relative timing. The performance variables included club head velocity and shot consistency.
The researchers examined 7 golfers (one female and 6 males), with typical scores between 80 and 95, during a simulated game of walked golf. They walked a total of six miles, in one mile increments, while carrying a weighted bag. Before the first mile, and after each subsequent mile, the golfers hit 20 tee shots, for a total of 140 tee shots.
Over the course of the study, the golfers were less able to achieve an appropriate weight transfer of the lead leg. This resulted in decreased club head velocity, which affects the distance the ball will travel. The study also revealed that the angles of the lead knee and lead ankle at the top of the swing are affected by time. These factors typically affect the accuracy of the shot.
The study suggest that walking the golf course affects a golfer’s swing and performance, gradually decreasing club head velocity and shot consistency. The longer the golfer walks and swings, the more golf mechanics change and performance declines. This may be intensified if the golfers carry their bags while walking.
The researchers do not suggest that golfers use a cart instead of walking; however, they do recommend improving fitness to combat these effects. They state that “improving physical fitness may be more helpful than expensive golf clubs.”
I would imagine that one of the best ways to become more fit at golfing would be to always walk the course during play. Unfortunately, this just adds to the learning curve. I was never very good at golf, and I gave up on it after only a few years.
Reference: ACSM
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Makes sense since they use their legs and other muscles getting around the course. I am sure they get tired thus causing the difference in the swing.
Anyone, walking or riding, would experience fatigue and a decline in swing performance by hitting 20 shots in a row. However, golf is played one shot at a time. Walking actually helps you keep your emotions in check and allows you to plan your next shot. It also helps you maintain a smooth tempo in your swing.
Thanks for the comments. Good point about how walking can keep emotions in check. I hadn’t thought of that.