Development of a Training Tool for Preventing Lower Back Pain in Golfers

Abstract

This paper focuses on developing an educational tool that includes a training plan specifically designed to prevent lower back pain in golfers. The aim of the thesis was developing a solution for Katinkulta Golf ry by addressing the identified issue of insufficient golf fitness-related knowledge among the golfers at the club. Many golfers experience post-game pain due to a lack of knowledge about proper physical training. The process followed three guided questions: What are the most common lower back problems and their causes in amateur golfers? How can lower back pain be prevented in amateur golfers? How can a clear and easy-to-use tool to prevent lower back pain be developed for amateur golfers?

To develop a product, a service design approach based on the Double Diamond model was selected. This model consists of four steps that structure the work process: discover, define, develop, and deliver. It helped deepen understanding of the needs of the target group, formulated the problem, and found a solution for it.

The thesis resulted in the development of a user-friendly tool that integrates both theoretical and practical parts. Its goal is to enhance awareness about the causes and prevention methods for lower back pain among golfers. Feedback obtained from an interview with a golf professional indicated that the results of the work meet its purpose. The final product was a tool that combines theoretical and practical chapters, about the most common reasons for lower back pain among golfers, and a method in the form of a training plan, to work with the identified reasons. According to the assessment of a golf professional, the product is easy to understand and suitable for amateur golfers. However, the suggestions for improvement of the tool were also noted, such as the integration of real examples of golf swing techniques for demonstrating harmful movement patterns. To conduct a more comprehensive review of the product, it is essential to gather additional information from third parties. This could include surveys from the target group and interviews with golf professionals and coaches specializing in physical preparation. Furthermore, to objectively assess the effectiveness and potential practical application of the proposed training plan, it is recommended to organize a testing phase involving the target group. This testing should track real-life changes in the golfers' condition and identify any necessary adjustments.