The Effects of Self-Myofascial Release on Physical Fitness and Swing Performance in Male Collegiate Golfers in China

Plain-language summary

This is a randomized controlled trial aimed at evaluating the effects of a self-myofascial release (SMR) program on physical fitness and swing performance in male collegiate golfers in China. The primary purpose is to determine whether SMR, using foam rollers and massage balls, can improve joint mobility, core control, balance, and golf-specific swing outcomes. The study seeks to answer the following key questions: Can an 8-week SMR program enhance physical functions such as mobility, balance, and trunk control in male collegiate golfers? Can SMR improve key performance indicators of golf swing, including club head speed, ball speed, carry distance, and accuracy? Participants (n=60) will be healthy male collegiate golfers aged 18-25, randomly assigned to either an experimental group (SMR) or a time-matched control group (no SMR). Both groups will undergo 8 weeks of golf training in a centralized camp with identical accommodations and practice schedules. The SMR group will perform supervised self-myofascial release exercises using Decathlon-brand foam rollers and balls, three times per week (30 min/session) in the gym after regular training. The control group will engage in supervised 30-minute sessions of passive golf-related video watching, scheduled at the same time and environment as the SMR sessions. Assessments will be conducted at Week 0 (baseline), Week 4 (midpoint), and Week 8 (post-intervention). Testing will include range-of-motion (ROM) measurements, balance tasks, strength/stability exercises, and golf swing performance using a TrackMan Launch Monitor. All outcome assessors will be blinded to group allocation to minimize bias. The study aims to provide evidence on whether SMR is an effective training strategy to enhance functional movement and sports-specific performance in amateur golfers.

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