| A
work and power (energy) analysis of the golf swing is presented as
a method for evaluating the mechanics of the golf swing. Two computer
models were used to estimate the energy production, transfers, and
conversions within the body and the golf club by employing standard
methods of mechanics to calculate work of forces and torques, kinetic
energies, strain energies, and power during the golf swing. A detailed
model of the golf club determined the energy transfers and conversions
within the club during the downswing. A full-body computer model of
the golfer determined the internal work produced at the body joints
during the downswing. Four diverse amateur subjects were analyzed
and compared using these two models. The energy approach yielded new
information on swing mechanics, determined the force and torque components
that accelerated the club, illustrated which segments of the body
produced work, determined the timing of internal work generation,
measured swing efficiencies, calculated shaft energy storage and release,
and proved that forces and range of motion were equally important
in developing club head velocity. A more comprehensive description
of the downswing emerged from information derived from an energy based
analysis.
KEY
WORDS: Golf biomechanics, work, energy, power, computer modeling.
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