Clubhead presentation and spin control capability of elite golfers

Tom W. Corke, Nils F. Betzler, Eric S. Wallace, Steve R. Otto

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

The current study aimed to establish whether or not elite amateur golfers are able to manipulate the magnitude of spin imparted on short iron shots whilst maintaining the same total shot distance. Seven elite male golfers were each asked to hit ten 'normal’ 9-iron shots, followed by ten with less spin and ten with more spin whilst not changing distance relative to the ‘normal’ shots. A passive-marker motion-capture system and Doppler radar devise were used to track clubhead presentation and ball flight respectively. ANOVA revealed that, as a group, players were able to significantly reduce spin relative to the ‘normal’ shots without affecting distance, but were unable to increase spin. Greater variability was seen amongst shots whereby players were attempting to influence spin. A subsequent regression analysis revealed that clubhead speed, spin loft and vertical impact location significantly contributed to the prediction of spin, whereas horizontal impact location and face-to-path angle did not.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationUnknown Host Publication
PublisherElsevier
Number of pages7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished (in print/issue) - 27 May 2013
Event6th Asia-Pacific Congress on Sports Technology (APCST) - Hong Kong
Duration: 27 May 2013 → …

Conference

Conference6th Asia-Pacific Congress on Sports Technology (APCST)
Period27/05/13 → …

Bibliographical note

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Keywords

  • Golf
  • iron
  • spin
  • distance
  • control
  • clubhead presentation
  • impact location.

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