The complex mix of cognitive, emotional and physical factors are required to maximise performance levels in the sport of golf. The sequence of coordinated muscle movements impact both the accuracy and distance with which the ball is struck. In its purest sense, the golf swing like any other movement in sport, is based upon the efficiency of the transfer of energy.

Currently the progression of the golf swing has been somewhat limited to the increased development of new golf clubs , however minimal effort has been made to include the use of ethical nutritional supplements to enhance this sport performance. This is somewhat surprising as during the course of a round of golf (on average lasting from 2-4 hours) increased levels of dehydration and reduced energy levels can be observed – causing mental and physical fatigue – both of which can have adverse effects on the manner in which the golf ball is struck.

One of the few sports supplements used to ethically increase performance levels in golf is a supplement that includes phosphatidylserine – designed to keep levels of focus constant by inhibiting the production of cortisol – a stress stimulating hormone released at low blood glucose levels. This is thought to enable the expected degradation of mental fatigue to be lowered and subsequently can improve the outcome of the swing. The addition of creatine supplement is said to allow for an explosive release of energy – a trait which is integral to a powerful drive. This conclusion can be derived from a statistical test carried out by where drive distance increased by a mean result of 8.4% for those who took the supplement once a day for 30 days prior to the golf swing.

Coffee arabica is added to some supplements. This fruit extract can allow for an increase in endurance levels by reducing pain perception. Furthermore, the inclusion of Boron can also enhance the swing of the golf club as it allows for calcium retention in bones – strengthening them thus limiting the risk of an increased pain sensitivity – an outcome also observed through the inclusion of the compound calcium fructoborate which acts anti-inflammatory and antitoxin. It is known that changes to levels of physical fatigue can drastically effect the result of any competitive action and that if they can be maintained for longer periods of time a greater outcome can be observed.

The use of supplements for golfers is currently on the rise. Golf is generally a game of small margins and golfers are keen to gain any advantage to improve their score. No doubt we will see an increasing number of offerings from supplement manufacturers in the future promising to increase drive length, stamina and concentration whilst protecting muscle and bone. Watch this space for further articles.