Golf science

This chapter aims to provide an overview of some of the key issues and developments in golf science over the last few years - essentially by reviewing some papers leading up to the last World Scientific Congress of Golf (2002) and others subsequent to the publication by Farrally et al (2003) on golf science at the beginning of the 21st century. As such, it is recognised that the material presented is by no means inclusive of all worthwhile golf research during this time period, rather it is intended to reflect on the main research domains in golf performance of the authors, namely biomechanics and performance measures, psychology, and technology. Cochran (2002) stated that whilst the benefit of high-tech equipment based on genuine science is real, it is nonetheless small. Anecdotally, golfers often report greater performance benefits than testing and theory suggest, supporting the self-efficacy brought to the game by technologically advanced equipment. Furthermore, enhanced teaching, improved fitness and course maintenance have all contributed to improved performances in the game.