No. 1 [Adrien Dumont De Chassart and Golf Neurology]

Welcome to Physiology in the Field, a companion to The Research Desk. 

While TRD explores cutting-edge studies and their implications for personal health and performance, this new companion series flips the lens—starting with extraordinary real-life performances and unpacking the physiological systems behind them.

Physiology in the Field connects our passion for science to real-world excellence. Each note celebrates exceptional achievements, breaks down how the mind and body enable them, and offers practical strategies (grounded in research) to help you or your clients pursue similar performance through lifestyle, nutrition, and supplementation.

Our first post celebrates golfer Adrien Dumont De Chassart’s achievement of shooting a 59 at the Korn Ferry Wichita Open. 

This week, we dive into the neurology of a golf swing, one physiological aspect required to accomplish this great achievement. 

The Physiology 

An exceptional golf swing requires exceptional coordination. Swing mechanics are a continuous feedback loop of downward signals triggering muscle contraction and upward sensory signals of limb velocity and positioning. 

The Brain Starts the Action

The golf swing starts in the brain. The premotor and supplementary motor areas plan the movement sequence, drawing from practice and learned motor patterns. The motor cortex executes the swing, while the cerebellum refines coordination, balance, and timing, ensuring smooth and precise execution.

Sending the Signal

After the movement plan is created, the brain sends electrical signals down the spinal cord and through peripheral nerves to the muscles. These signals carry specific instructions on how and when each muscle should activate.

Muscles in Action

Multiple muscle groups engage during a golf swing. The arms, shoulders, core, and legs all work together to generate force and control. The brain signals each muscle group to contract or relax at the correct moment. Small muscles in the hands and wrists control grip and fine-tuned motion of the club.

Feedback Loop

During the swing, sensory receptors in the muscles, joints, and skin send information back to the brain. This includes data on limb position, speed, tension, and movement accuracy. The brain uses this feedback to monitor performance and make adjustments if needed.

Practice Makes Pathways

With repeated practice, the connections between the brain and muscles become more efficient. These pathways become faster and more coordinated, allowing the movement to be executed consistently and with less conscious effort. Over time, the swing becomes more automatic and reliable.

The Vitality Plan 

Great achievement doesn’t happen by chance. Finding ways to support the physiology required to realizes these feats is paramount. 

Lifestyle: Practice, practice, practice. Practicing for at least 800 hours changes regions of the brain related to sensory-motor tasks and coordination. PMID: 19277116

Supplement: Consume 200 mg of phosphatidylserine daily, which has been shown to improve golf shots after six weeks. PMID: 18053194

Nutrition: Eat foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential compounds for optimal central nervous system function. PMID: 26795198

Explore the Vitality Encyclopedia to learn more about these topics.