Comparative Analysis of Left and Right Lower Extremity Muscle Activation Differences During the Driver Swing

Comparative Analysis of Left and Right Lower Extremity Muscle Activation Differences During the Driver Swing

This study aimed to analyze changes in lower extremity muscle activation across the left and right sides and swing phases during a driver swing under two different stance conditions. The study participants included eight fully qualified members of the Korea Ladies Professional Golf Association (KLPGA). Electromyographic (EMG) activity of the gastrocnemius, tibialis anterior, and vastus lateralis was measured bilaterally while performing driver swings under feet straight stance and lead foot open stance. The results indicated that muscle activation tended to increase progressively toward the latter stages of the swing across all stance. The lead leg vastus lateralis exhibited higher activation across all phases, while the lead foot gastrocnemius showed greater activation during the backswing-to-downswing transition. However, in the follow-through phase, the trail foot gastrocnemius demonstrated dominant activation. In conclusion, muscle activity remains elevated during the latter stages of the swing following impact, demonstrating that the strength of the lead leg vastus lateralis plays a pivotal role in maintaining body stability throughout the swing.