Descriptive analysis of shoulder joint kinematics during the backswing phase in amateur golfers

Abstract

The golf swing places high rotational demands on the shoulder complex, yet shoulder motion during the backswing in amateur golfers remains insufficiently described. This study aimed to descriptively examine shoulder joint kinematics during the backswing phase in amateur golfers. Five right-handed amateur golfers performed ten driver swings each, resulting in 50 analyzed swings. Shoulder motion was recorded using a motion analysis system, and four left shoulder variables were examined, including shoulder abduction, adduction, horizontal abduction, and horizontal adduction. The results showed limited frontal-plane shoulder motion, with mean abduction and adduction of approximately ±4.5°, and substantial transverse-plane shoulder rotation, with mean horizontal shoulder motion of approximately ±94°. Movement patterns were consistent across swings. These findings suggest that amateur golfers primarily rely on horizontal shoulder motion rather than vertical arm elevation during the backswing. The study provides baseline biomechanical data that may support future research and coaching strategies related to golf swing technique and injury prevention.