Integrating strength and conditioning training and golf practice during the golf season: approaches and perceptions of highly skilled golfers

Bliss, Alex and Langdown, Ben L. (2023). Integrating strength and conditioning training and golf practice during the golf season: approaches and perceptions of highly skilled golfers. International Journal of Sports Science and Coaching, 18(5) pp. 1605–1614.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/17479541231166288

Abstract

Contemporary evidence has demonstrated strength and conditioning (S&C) training benefits golf performance, primarily through improving clubhead speed. However, no empirical data exist that describe how, or even if, golfers integrate their S&C training and golf practice. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the perceptions and practices of skilled golfers with regards planning the season and how S&C is structured in the golf year. Sixty-five (male n= 48. Female n= 17) category 1 amateur (n= 50) and professional (n= 15) golfers completed a mixed-methods online survey. Survey answers were either golf practice or S&C training focused. Results showed the majority of golfers engage with S&C training (n= 44; 67.7 %) and follow a programme (n= 53. 81.5 %). Contrastingly, they reported having little structure for golf practice, choosing to have no annual plan (n= 14; 21.9 %), have a reactive approach (n= 22. 34.9 %) based on recent performances, or train what feels appropriate/enjoyable (n= 15; 23.8 %). Golfers reported they adjust their training around competition (n= 47; 74.6 %), but with various approaches. The dichotomous and contradictory responses received across multiple answers demonstrate continued education and research is required to help golfers integrate S&C training with their golf practice.