Golf Biomechanics Golf biomechanics is a relatively modern subject, in the world of scientific study and research. It is basically a science that concentrates on the applied use of biomechanical principles to aid golf performance. Premium Golf Consulting's netowork is very pleased to include Biomechanist, Dan Scott. About D an Dan is a Senior Lecturer based at the High Performance Laboratory at Kingston University specialising in Sports Biomechanics and has over five years experience of working with elite athletes. Dan has provided performance analysis and biomechanical support to many professional and amateur golfers, as well as many other athletes and governing bodies including the British Canoe Union, Surrey County Cricket Club, Surrey County Golf Union, International Fencers and International Ballet Dancers. Dan is currently working towards his PhD utilising the latest technology in 3D motion analysis to research the kinematics and kinetics of the golf swing in relation to injury and performance improvement. To learn about what coaching sessions are available click here. To contact, ring 0845 124 1012 or email us.
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An Introduction to Biomechanics With Dan Scott BSc MSc Performance Improvement Performance improvement can be achieved through a number of different ways all of which have varying degrees of input from a golf biomechanist. Technique improvement Technique improvement will come in the form of qualitative analysis such as when a coach uses their knowledge of mechanics and the swing to correct actions. Secondly a quantitative analysis can be undertaken where a golf biomechanist together which a coach can measure different elements of the technique and compare them to standard norms or ideal movements for a golfer of a specific size and ability. Equipment Improvement It is fairly obvious and well documented that there has been much progress made in the design and development of clubs, balls, footwear and even clothing. Major manufacturers will have research and design centres employing biomechanists along with engineers and designers to develop cutting edge equipment. The great thing with the development of such equipment is that it benefits not only the tour professionals but everyone down to the recreational golfer in improving distance, accuracy and feel. Training improvement By having detailed assessment from a golf biomechanist you can help identify physical and technique deficiencies which will highlight what type of training the golfer requires. This may be swing related or actual physical training and conditioning. Prevention and Rehabilitation of Injury No matter what level of golf you play, injury is an unfortunate fact of everyday life. However as always prevention is always better than the cure. Golf biomechanists are actively involved in research into the best ways to prevent and rehabilitate injury by investigating the forces and reasons behind injury. Some of the easiest ways to prevent injury are to analyse technique, the condition of the golfer and the equipment used. A full biomechanical assessment of a golfer can identify those who are at risk of injury and would benefit from an intervention to lower that risk. What is a biomechanical analysis? Simply speaking a biomechanical analysis will assess both the physical and playing abilities of the golfer. Modern day golf biomechanists have had the luxury of rapid advances in technology to aid performance analysis. So much so that within reason any part of the golf swing or golfer can be analysed with a phenomenal amount of detail and accuracy. Common techniques used for recording and analysing movements are Video Analysis – a common tool used by most PGA coaches which allows an analysis of the swing from a given view with immediate feedback to the golfer Force Platforms – force plates are becoming more common to measure weight transfer patterns and movement throughout the swing, which helps to establish the correct movement patterns throughout the swing. Electromyography – electromyography is an exploratory science that allows golf biomechanists to measure the amount of muscle activity present during the swing via surface electrodes. This will help identify key movement patterns and establish muscles that may be easily fatigued and injured. Depending on the level of analysis that your golf biomechanist is conducting, you can expect to have your body and your swing assessed. A golf biomechanist will look to assess your posture, flexibility in key joints, core stability and balance, muscular strength and power. Together with an assessment of aerobic fitness, a golf biomechanist will formulate a detailed analysis of your current status so that improvements can be made to compliment your swing. Once the physical assessment is completed you can expect to have your swing analysed using the latest 3D motion analysis systems to measure vital parameters including movement sequencing, velocities and rotations, weight transfer patterns, accuracy and consistency. Dan Scott is a Senior Lecturer in Sports Biomechanics at Kingston University. Dan specialises in golf biomechanics and in particular 3D motion analysis of the swing. For further information on golf biomechanics and the services offered by Premium Golf Consulting contact 0845 124 1012 or email us. |
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