Swing Comparison
The two most common uses of 2D video swing analysis systems are to evaluate a golfer’s movements at a slower speed, and then to visually evaluate multiple swings side-by-side. Although we can use the visual outputs of 3D motion capture systems in a similar fashion, we are also able to visually evaluate with greater detail and clarity. With 3D, instructors can not only compare side-by-side, but can take it a step further by doing an overlay of two swings.
We have two swings pulled up side by side as many golf instructors do, when using 2D video analysis systems.
Just as you would on those systems, we are able to view, compare and contrast swings.
However, 3D systems contain yet another additional feature for visual evaluation, the overlay view. Of course, you can compare swings of different players as we are showing here, but it can also be particularly useful when visually evaluating one player's good swing versus their not so good swing.
The visual benefit of this technology allows for clear and immediate assessment. The two side-by-side images give us some visual perspective as we look back and forth between the two. When we use the overlay technology, the differences (and similarities) in the two swings now become even more evident. In fact, the clarity that is provided with this option allows both the instructor and the student to see the differences, resulting in improved communication.
Is it better to compare our golfer with an elite golfer? Or to compare the same golfer over time?
While we are on the topic of visually comparing golfers, we should also quickly consider who we are comparing our golfers to. Many instructors are quick to use elite (PGA/LPGA Tour) players for comparison purposes. Part of the reason for this is the thought that the elite players are considered the “gold standard” for all to work towards. In some sense, and if used appropriately, using an elite player to show a desired move can be quite useful. However, given the numerous physical differences (height, weight, flexibility, strength, coordination, etc.) between golfers, particularly elite versus non-elite golfers, it is usually best for instructors to limit the amount times they do side-by-side comparisons of different golfers.
Instead, a better option might be to benchmark a player’s progress against his/her own performances. With this in mind, we like to conduct 3D sessions with players at various times including:
- As part of an initial player evaluation
- During swing changes to track progress
- When player is performing well for comparison
- For diagnosis when not performing well
If we are able to capture at these times, the result will be a complete set of data and visuals for us to make thorough evaluations on our student over time.