THREE-DIMENSIONAL KNEE JOINT KINEMATICS DURING GOLF-SWING IN THAI PROFESSIONAL AND AMATEUR GOLFERS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate and compare 3-D kinematics differences of knee motion between amateur and professional golfers. Fifteen Thai professional (Pro) ( age = 21.8 + 1.9 yr, wt = 68.2+10.3 Kg, ht = 173.5+5 cm) and fifteen amateur golfers (Am) ( age = 18+1.8 yr, wt = 65.7+9.3 Kg, ht = 172.7+5 cm) participated in the study. Participants were divided into two groups: Pro and Am.  Fifteen retroreflective markers were attached on the right and left lower extremities. Three golf swing trials were recorded with four high speed cameras operating at 500Hz. Golf swing kinematic variables were analyzed and obtained via motion analysis software. Independent t-test was used to determine statistical significant differences between the two groups (p<0.05). The results showed that the knee flexion/extension angle of the lead leg in both groups were significantly different at ball contact (p=0.04) and in the mid of follow-through phase (p=0.01). Moreover, the Pro had an external rotation angle of their lead leg less than the Am (p<0.05). No significant differences of knee angular velocity and adduction/abduction angles between both groups were found. In conclusion, knee movements during golf swing were different in the lead leg only. Moreover, knee flexion and external rotation in the downswing and follow through phases may lead to knee injuries in golfers.

                                         (J. Sports Sci. Technol. 2011; 11( 2): 1-12)   

Keywords: Golf,  Knee Joint,  Movement,  Kinematics,  Swing