Science and evidence

Evidence that informs the pathway.

Core & Caddy combines sports science, biomechanics, strength and conditioning and long-term practitioner experience. Research informs how we think. The golfer’s individual profile determines how we apply it.

See the Method in Practice Your Physical Profile

For golfers

What the evidence means for golfers.

Strength and explosive capacity matter

A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis found meaningful associations between club-head speed and several physical characteristics, including lower-body strength, upper-body strength and measures of explosive force production. This supports a development pathway that builds capacity before expecting speed to appear.

Resistance training can support golf performance

A systematic review of resistance-training methods found that structured training can improve club-head speed and hitting distance, with outcomes influenced by the type of training, intensity and characteristics of the golfer. This is why Core & Caddy remains progressive and individual rather than copying one universal protocol.

Mobility has an important but specific role

More flexibility does not automatically create more speed. Mobility matters because it can influence access to movement, comfort and the options available to the golfer. It must be developed alongside control and strength.

Injury claims require caution

Golf injury research shows that musculoskeletal problems are common, but the causes are complex. Research into golf-related lower-back pain does not support simplistic claims that one swing characteristic or one physical restriction is automatically responsible. Core & Caddy therefore addresses modifiable physical capacity while referring diagnosis and clinical treatment appropriately.

Principles

Our evidence principles.

Association is not treated as causation.
Group research does not guarantee an individual result.
Assessment informs the starting point.
Progressive strength and power development are prioritised appropriately.
Mobility is developed for usable movement, not as a standalone promise.
Technical coaching remains with the PGA professional.
Clinical diagnosis and treatment remain with qualified healthcare professionals.

Selected research

Work that informs how we think.

Brennan A et al. 2024

Associations Between Physical Characteristics and Golf Clubhead Speed: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

Sports Medicine.

doi.org/10.1007/s40279-024-02004-5

Uthoff A, Sommerfield LM, Pichardo AW. 2021

Effects of Resistance Training Methods on Golf Clubhead Speed and Hitting Distance: A Systematic Review.

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.

doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000004085

Williamson TR et al. 2024

Epidemiology of Musculoskeletal Injury in Professional and Amateur Golfers: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

British Journal of Sports Medicine.

doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2023-107324

Watson M et al. 2024

Biomechanical Parameters of the Golf Swing Associated with Lower Back Pain: A Systematic Review.

Journal of Sports Sciences.

doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2024.2319443

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Evidence informs the system. Assessment decides the work. Technical golf still belongs with the teaching professional.

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