Specific Training Leuven

Golf has been described as one of the most complex, technically demanding and high precision sports in existence.^[1] Professional golfers tend to have different physical characteristics than less skilled golfers^[2] and factors such as age, gender and history of injuries also affect a golfer's performance both on physical tests and swing parameters^[3][4]. Nevertheless, a combination of mobility, stability, strength and cardiovascular fitness is often recommended for optimal 'golf fitness'^[5]

Kinematic studies have demonstrated the importance of sufficient flexibility, particularly in the trunk, hips and shoulders, to achieve the body positions necessary to optimize Club Head Velocity. EMG studies have attempted to identify the muscle groups important for golf performance, and several reviews have been published on this topic. The data collected show that the trunk extensors, hip extensors and abdominal muscles all play an important role in producing a powerful efficient golf swing. The efficient transfer of energy from the lower body to the muscle groups of the chest and arms and ultimately the hands and club (the "bottom-up phenomenon") is important in producing a high Club Head Velocity, but a number of kinetic variables measured during the swing are also highly individual.^[6]

POSITIVE CORRELATIONS EXIST BETWEEN: 1) handicap and swing performance variables; 2) muscle strength and skill (handicap and/or golf score); and 3) driving distance, swing speed, ball speed and muscle strength. Leg-hip, trunk power and grip strength seem especially relevant for golf performance improvement.