An ecological-dynamical approach to golf science: implications for swing biomechanics, club design and customisation, and coaching practice

ABSTRACT

It has previously been argued that science has only made a limited contribution to the sport of golf, particularly the human element. This lack of impact could, in part, be attributed to the absence of an appropriate theoretical framework in most empirical investigations of the golf swing. This position paper outlines an ecological-dynamical approach to golf science that is better able to capture the interactions among the many structural parts of a golfer, and the relations between a golfer, his or her equipment, and his or her surrounding environment than other theoretical approaches have hitherto. It is proposed that the conjoining of principles and concepts of ecological psychology and dynamical systems theory could make a significant contribution to the enhancement of knowledge and understanding of swing biomechanics, club design and customisation, and coaching practice. This approach could also provide a platform on which to integrate the various subdisciplines of sport and human movement science to gain a more holistic understanding of golf performance.

KEYWORDS:

• Constraints
• self-organisation
• coordinative structures
• dynamic touch
• guided discovery learning

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