KINEMATIC ANALYSIS OF GOLF PUTTING FOR EXPERT AND NOVICE GOLFERS

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify some of the kinematic parameters used by expert golfers ( 6 handicap) to optimise putting efficiency and accuracy, and differentiate the putting techniques of elite and novice golfers. A 2D video analysis (50 Hz) was used to establish whether any differences existed for selected kinematic parameters of an 8 ft (2.46m) golf putt between expert (n = 8) and novice golfers (n = 8). Statistical analysis showed that 9 parameters from the 26 measured proved to be significantly different at the alpha level P < 0.05 between the expert and novice groups. This study assumed that expert golfers were more competent putters than novice golfers. Whilst this appears to be a reasonable claim it may not always be the case. Further improvements to the study could be to incorporate a scoring system to monitor the outcome of individual trials.