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SELF-REPORTED ENERGY DEFICIT IN COLLEGIATE GOLFERS

Abstract

Although playing golf is often perceived as a leisurely activity for the novice golfer, collegiate golf is a physically and mentally demanding sport characterized by fluctuating workloads. A standard 18-hole round lasts 4 to 6 hours, during which college golfers must carry or push golf bags weighing 9-16 kg. Therefore, it is important for college golfers to fuel themselves to supply adequate energy to walk 18+ holes and maintain cognitive function and focus. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine if collegiate golfers feel physically or mentally fatigued after 18 holes, and if so, what is causing that fatigue. METHODS: 10 female and 10 male NCAA Division I golfers were surveyed to determine if they felt a significant decrease in energy (mentally or physically) from the beginning of an 18-hole round to the end. If they reported fatigue, they were then asked to define the cause of their fatigue. RESULTS: Of the 20 golfers surveyed, 12 responded stating they did not experience a decrease in energy, however 8 responded that they did experience a decrease in energy. Of the 8 who reported decreased energy, 5 were female and 3 were male. Six of the 8 reported they believe this was due to insufficient fueling before and during the round. The remaining two stated insufficient physical training. CONCLUSION: From this small sample size, 40% of athletes felt a decrease in energy during an 18-hole round. Collegiate golfers often complete 1 to 2 rounds (18 – 36 holes) per day in tournaments and thus must fuel efficiently to optimize performance for the entire duration of play. Coaches and golfers alike should be educated on sufficient fueling strategies to ensure athletes are able to perform with optimal focus throughout the entire duration of a round or multiple rounds.

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