The Influences of Motor Control Adaptation and Human-Equipment Interaction on Issues Related to Golf-Club Design and Optimization

Abstract

In the current sport-equipment industry, equipment evaluation and/or optimization are mainly done through pure mechanical procedures. It is known that any change of performance environment would cause one to adapt certain aspects of his or her movements to the changed environment. Variation of sport-equipment is counted as an environment change for human performance. Yet, the equipment-induced motor control change is hardly studied and less considered in golf club evaluation/optimization by industries. This study aimed to elaborate on two aspects related to equipmentinduced motor control change using biomechanical analysis of golf swing. The results showed that mechanical variations of clubs did cause significant changes in motor control during golf swings. This would suggest: 1) equipment-induced motor control adjustment would alternate the results of pure mechanical optimization and 2) a reasonable approach for the optimization of golf club should consider both mechanical and biomechanical factors. The results of this study should serve as primary evidence for initiating more and more biomechanical tests related to optimization of golf clubs in sportequipment industry.

The effects of different iron shaft weights on golf swing performance

“…To enhance the practicality of a golf club, the primary consideration regarding club components should be the club weight, ensuring that a player can comfortably handle the weight. Shaft flex or swing weight (weight balance between the clubhead, shaft, and grip) can then be tailored to achieve the desired shot performance and feel ( Shan et al, 2008 ). Whether the use of clubs that are heavier or lighter for one’s skill level can result in the development of specific movement patterns that may affect athletic performance is not clear, particularly when an iron club is used.…”