Advancements and Applications in Golf

The past several years have seen great advancements in the technologies being utilized within golf and the information available to help improve player performance.

Coaching:

Along with major advancements in technology come improved methodologies in how we teach the sport. Utilizing the technologies discussed in the next module has greatly improved our understanding of the science behind the sport, thus enhancing a coach's ability to improve player performance.

Ball flight monitors:

For example, the use of ball flight monitors has provided us with a better understanding of club delivery mechanics and resulting ball flights. In fact, all of the major golf equipment manufacturers utilize the latest ball flight technologies throughout their operations, including research and development. To get a clear sense of how widely ball flight monitors are used on the PGA Tour, one would only need to attend a range session at a PGA Tour practice round to fully understand how widespread its use is among elite players and their coaches.

3D motion capture systems:

3D motion capture systems provide instructors with a great opportunity to measure the movements of a golfer and track a player’s progress over time. Motion capture systems have the ability to measure and display visual data in real-time. Because of this, instructors can use biofeedback as a tool to more effectively communicate and implement changes to improve player performance, which we will get to see later in this course.

Many of the world’s best golfers utilize 3D motion capture and ground reaction force technologies. Rory McIlroy, the #1 ranked player in the world (at the time this course was written), is known to regularly utilize both as part of his performance enhancement program. However, it’s very important for us to note that the use of these technologies is not limited to just elite golfers. Junior golfers, collegiate golfers and “average” golfers are either already taking advantage of these opportunities, or are eager to start.

As you can see, the amount of technology has grown tremendously over time as have the options for how to incorporate it into a performance improvement plan. Using these systems, we are able to make more informed observations, improve communication, and provide more relevant feedback to our athletes. This feedback is what athletes of all abilities are seeking from their coaches. As you work through the material in this course, we hope you will consider when and what kind of technology might fit well with your teaching philosophy.