Supplements, analgesics and alcohol use of German amateur golfers

Problem: To cope with the increasing pressure to perform, more and more amateur athletes are turning to performance-enhancing substances. Although the use of dietary supplements, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and alcohol does not fall into the category of ‘doping’, it nevertheless harbors risks and side effects during sporting activity. Methods: An online questionnaire developed specifically for this study was used to research the consumption of supplements, analgesics, and alcohol among golfers. Results: A total of 877 golfers (257 women, 619 men; 1 diverse person; age: M=56; SD=15 years) participated in the survey. The results of the survey showed that 40.1% of golfers consumed supplements, 46.6% analgesics, and 40.4% alcohol. Dependent on participation in golf tournaments, the consumption of supplements (43.0%), analgesics (52.1%) and alcohol (47.2%) increases significantly. Gender correlates significantly with the consumption of alcohol at golf tournaments (p=0.001); more men consume alcohol than women. Age correlates significantly and negatively with the consumption of supplements at golf tournaments (r=- 0.131; p=0.001) and the consumption of alcohol at golf tournaments (r=- 0.238; p=0.000). Discussion: The frequency of consumption was alarming for a large proportion of the golfers surveyed. Therefore, there is an urgent need to educate golfers about the risks associated with increased consumption of supplements, analgesics, and alcohol in connection with sporting activities to avoid damage to one’s body.