Golf Coaches' Perceptions of Key Technical Swing Parameters Compared to Biomechanical Literature

Abstract

Assessing a coach's technical knowledge of a sporting technique can reveal measureable biomechanical parameters associated with a successful performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify the key technical parameters that golf coaches associate with a successful golf swing. Sixteen high-level golf coaches were observed coaching a highly skilled golfer after which they participated in a semi-structured interview regarding their technical analysis of the golf swing. The data were inductively analysed and five intrinsically linked key technical parameters were identified: ‘Posture’, Body Rotation’, ‘Arm and Wrist Action’, ‘Sequential Movement and Body Segments' and ‘Club Motion’. The parameters Posture and Body Rotation were further sub-categorised and compared to the existing biomechanical literature whereby gaps in knowledge were identified. The results of this study can be used to guide future golf biomechanics research and coaching technologies.