The Effect of Reactive Neuromuscular Training on Golf Swing Kinematic Sequence

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of reactive neuromuscular training (RNT) on golf swing kinematic sequence. RNT aims to develop effective dynamic stability or movement, minimize the need for verbal and visual instruction, and self-respond to stimulus created by outside force (eg. elastic band). A golf swing is a highly complex motor skill that requires multi-segments coordinative movement, such as golf kinematic sequence. To apply RNT to amateur golfers who tend to sway their body or head, inertial overloading technique utilizing clubbell (5kg) swing applied outside force (perturbation). Twenty-Four male amateur golfers were divided into two groups (RNT vs. Control). A golf ball tracking system (FlightScope Kudu) and 3D motion analysis system (K-vest) were selected for measurement devices. The experiment task was a 7-iron golf full swing. The carry distance, maximum angular velocity (pelvis, thorax, and wrist), and deceleration timing (pelvis, thorax, and wrist) were selected for dependent variables. The RNT group outperformed in carry distance. The maximum angular velocity of the pelvis and wrist were significantly higher in the RNT group. The deceleration timing of the pelvis and thorax significantly moved forward toward mid-downswing in the RNT group. The results of this study confirmed the motor learning effect of RNT on golf kinematic sequence and distance performance.