The golf and strength and conditioning coach interface: A model to optimise performance support for golfers

The benefits of strength and conditioning (S&C) for golf are well established in the empirical scientific evidence base. While more longitudinal training studies are required, recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses have confirmed the viability of S&C for golfers, particularly for improving clubhead speed, a critical performance determinant. Golfer support is also evolving, whereby the historic “team” of golfer and golf coach are expanded. Elite golfers seek additional coaching from various sport science disciplines including S&C in the quest for sustained optimal performance. However, until recently, how S&C integrates within an overall golf plan had not been considered. Our research addressed this knowledge gap. This article is the first to synthesise these findings, make practical recommendations for golfers and their support team and provide suggestions for future research. The article highlights a continued need for improved communication between S&C coach, golf coach, and golfer. The golfer's wants and needs are not always aligned to those of the golf coach and the qualities the S&C coach needs to possess vary depending on the perceptions and practices of the golf coach and/or golfer. The S&C coach also needs to be cognisant of their varying overall impact on performance potential in a highly technical sport.