International Institute
Movement, Fitness and Sport
Heart Rate Analysis
during an 18-Hole Round of Golf
in a Tropical Climate
A Study in Mauritius
Introduction & Background
Playing golf in a tropical climate presents additional challenges to the physiological systems of athletes. High temperatures and increased humidity can raise physical stress and influence heart rate, thermoregulation, and hydration. The purpose of this study is to analyze the heart rate dynamics of golfers under these specific climatic conditions. The focus is on changes in heart rate during the various phases of an 18-hole round to understand the interplay between physical exertion, mental stress, duration, and environmental factors.
Multiple
Relevance
The Science of Golf in Paradise
This study not only answers an academic question but also offers practical, commercial, and strategic advantages for everyone involved in the sport of golf. It has the potential to redefine how we think about golf and its physiological demands.
Research Question
How do the heart rate and heart rate variability of golfers change over the course of an 18-hole round under the specific stresses of a tropical climate? What role do hydration, clothing, physical fitness, and game duration play in managing these stresses?
Hypothesis
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Hypothesis H1: The average heart rate during the round will be significantly higher in a tropical climate than in a temperate climate, due to increased cardiovascular strain for thermoregulation.
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Hypothesis H2: Heart rate variability (HRV) will decrease more significantly over the course of the round under tropical conditions, indicating cumulative physiological fatigue.
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Hypothesis H3: Heart rate peaks during stressful game situations (e.g., critical shots, putts) will be more pronounced in a tropical climate, as the physiological baseline stress is already higher.
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Hypothesis H4: Regular hydration and the use of breathable sports clothing will contribute to a lower average heart rate and more stable HRV.
Methdology
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The study will include 60 healthy amateur golfers with HCP 0-36. Participants will be asked to refrain from strenuous activities within 24 hours prior to the golf round.
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Heart Rate Measurement: Each participant will wear a GPS Smartwatch and chest strap heart rate monitor (e.g., Polar H10) that continuously records heart rate and heart rate variability (RR intervals) with millisecond accuracy.
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Climate Data: Weather conditions (temperature, humidity, wind) will be collected at regular intervals before and during the round using the internet (weather service) and a portable hygrometer/thermometer.
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Questionnaire: Before and after the round, participants will complete a short questionnaire to collect information on their well-being, perceived exertion, and clothing used.
​Expected Results and Implications
The study will provide a clear picture of how golfers' bodies respond to climatic challenges. The results have important implications for:
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Training and Preparation: Coaches can develop specific training protocols for rounds in a tropical climate, focusing on endurance and heat tolerance.
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Golf courses and Golf shops can better market GPS wearables, breathable materials, and cooling technologies by highlighting the proven benefits for reducing cardiovascular strain, ensuring the safety and health of their customers
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Tactical Play: Players can learn to manage their heart rate and recovery by taking conscious breaks and adjusting their hydration strategy.
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This research will make a valuable contribution to the understanding of sports physiology in golf.