Abstract

The objectives of this study were first to examine whether, in theory, a delayed release technique that used resistive wrist torque provided an advantage in clubhead speed; and second, to identify the mechanical sources of power that are responsible for increasing clubhead speed. A 2-D, three-segment model comprising torso, arm, and golfclub was used to model the downward phase of the golf swing. Muscle torque generators, constrained by the activation rates and force-velocity properties of human muscle, were inserted at the proximal end of each segment. Three separate optimized simulation conditions were examined. The first, SIM-1, made no attempt to constrain the natural release of the clubshaft. Optimally activated muscular wrist torque was used to accelerate the clubhead. The second, SIM-2, delayed the release point of the clubshaft by means of a resistive muscular wrist torque. This was followed by active wrist torque to accelerate the clubhead. The third, SIM-3, was similar to SIM-2 except no wrist torque was used to accelerate the clubhead following the release point. The results indicated that there was a small advantage in employing the delayed release technique using resistive wrist torque, but significantly less then had been previously reported by other simulation studies. The use of an active wrist torque following the delayed release was found to be advantageous. The main source of power delivered to the golfclub originated from the passive joint forces created at the wrist joint during the swing. In terms of muscle power contributions to the swing, the torque generator at the shoulder joint produced the highest value (800 W), followed by the wrist torque generator (600 W), followed by the torso torque generator (390 W). Verf.-Referat