Effects of Physical Training and Associations Between Physical Performance Characteristics and Golf Performance in Female Players: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Robinson, L, Murray, A, Ehlert, A, Wells, J, Jarvis, P, Turner, A, Glover, D, Coughlan, D, Hembrough, R, and Bishop, C. Effects of physical training and associations between physical performance characteristics and golf performance in female players: A systematic review with meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2023—The aims of this systematic review were to assess the association between physical performance and measures of golf performance, and the effects of physical training on measures of golf performance, in female golfers. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Medline, and CINAHL. Inclusion criteria required studies to (a) have conducted a physical training intervention of any duration in female players and determine the effects on measures of golf performance, (b) determine the association between physical performance in at least one test and golf performance in female players, and (c) be peer-reviewed and published in English language. Methodological quality was assessed using a modified version of the Downs and Black Quality Index tool, and heterogeneity was examined through the Q statistic and I 2. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using standardized mean differences (SMDs) (with 95% confidence interval [CI]s) within a random-effects model, with Egger's regression test used to assess small study bias (inclusive of publication bias). Of the 2,378 articles screened, only 9 were included in the final review, with 3 of these being associative by design and 6 being training interventions. From an associative standpoint, clubhead speed (CHS) was reported in all 3 studies and was associated with measures of strength (r = 0.54), lower-body power (r = 0.60), upper-body power (r = 0.56–0.57), and flexibility (r = 0.52–0.71). When assessing the effects of physical training interventions, CHS was again the most commonly reported golf outcome measure (n = 5). The random-effect model indicated that CHS significantly improves within each training group following training interventions (SMD = 0.73 [95% CIs: 0.32–1.14], Z = 3.50, p < 0.001), with trivial heterogeneity (I 2 = 0.00%, Q = 0.18; p = 0.9963) and no prevalence of small study bias depicted through the Egger's regression test (z = −0.28, p = 0.78). From the available research, it seems that CHS can be positively affected from strength, power, and flexibility training interventions. From an associative standpoint, only 3 studies have been conducted solely in female players, with one showcasing questionable methodology. Future research should aim to carefully select test measures which better represent the physical capacities needed for the sport when determining the effects of and relationships with golf performance.

Relationships and Within-Group Differences in Physical Attributes and Golf Performance in Elite Amateur Female Players

“…Traditionally, golf is not a sport with a long-standing history of strength and conditioning (S&C) training. However, recent research now indicates a growing awareness of this type of training as part of attempts to improve golf shot performance and over-arching player health [ 7 , 8 , 9 ]. For example, it is now widely accepted that improving strength and power (in both the upper and lower body) is associated with a golfer’s ability to generate increased force production, which is fundamental for achieving the maximum clubhead speed (CHS) [ 7 , 8 ].…”

“…Finally, Brown et al [ 19 ] reported positive associations between CHS and grip strength on the left hand (in right-handed golfers) ( r = 0.54; p < 0.05), and seated flexibility in both the clockwise and counter-clockwise directions ( r = 0.52–0.71; p < 0.05). With only three studies available in female golfers that relate to the association between S&C training and some surrogate measure of golf performance, it is clear that further research is warranted [ 9 ]. Furthermore, with some questionable assessment methods for physical characteristics selected in previous studies with female players [ 17 , 19 ], there is a need to develop a more robust and comprehensive testing battery to truly elucidate the relationship between physical characteristics and measures of golf performance in female players.…”