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Abstract
A number of studies have shown that an external focus of attention is beneficial for learning and performing golf skills, but golf driving is less researched. This experiment examined the interaction of a pressure and focus of attention intervention on golf driving performance. Volunteer golfers (n=30) with a handicap index < 15 were block randomized to focus either internally (n=14) or externally (n=16) and tested in both low- and high-pressure conditions. Drive carry distance and accuracy were measured with the Flightscope Mevo+. No statistically significant main or interaction effects were found via 2x2 ANOVA for pressure or focus of attention for either performance outcome. It was concluded that in contrast to results from prior studies of golf putting and chipping, neither attentional focus, pressure, nor the combination of the two influence how far or straight a sample of experienced, above average golf performers hit the golf ball with the driver.