Total time taken and heart rate changes of youth golfers during pre-shot routines in on-course conditions

The aim of the research was to assess the total time taken and the heart rate (HR) changes of youth golfers during pre-shot routines in on-course conditions. Ten male golfers participated. Data of a golf round were gathered hole by hole using a golf personal statistical protocol. HR responses were recorded at 2 s intervals using Suunto t6 HR monitors. Observers recorded behavioural patterns during the pre-shot routines. The subjects' pre-shot routines for approach shots were significantly shorter (p < 0.05) than their pre-shot routines for tee shots. HR increased significantly (p < 0.05) from the start to the end of the pre-shot routines for tee and fairway shots; the number of practice swings had the strongest relationship with the increased HR from the start to the end of the pre-shot routines for tee (r = 0.474; p < 0.05) and fairway (r = 0.373; p < 0.05) shots. Approach shots require more accuracy than full swing shots; therefore, findings suggest that a longer pre-shot routine for these shots is essential. The number of practice swings is the factor significantly increasing HR responses before full swings shots. The increase in HR before tee shots has a negative influence on the accuracy of these shots.