Rotational Kinematics of the Pelvis During the Golf Swing: Skill Level Differences and Relationship to Club and Ball Impact Conditions

Abstract

It is known that proper proximal to distal sequencing of body rotations is important in the production of high club head velocities in the golf swing. Since these rotations originate at the pelvis, it is not clear how differences in pelvic kinematics are related to essential determinants of ball flight. One essential ball flight measure that has not been previously investigated is the ratio of club velocity before impact to ball velocity after impact, or smash factor. Therefore, this study investigated the differences in pelvic kinematics and ball flight determinants between golfers of different skill levels. It also determined the correlations between pelvic kinematic measures and these determinants of ball flight. Skilled golfers were found to have greater pelvic accelerations and a larger time between peak pelvic velocity and ball contact (peak to impact time). It was also discovered that pelvic acceleration correlated with the shot distance and with the smash factor. There was also a correlation between peak to impact time and smash factor. This is the first data to suggest that appropriate pelvic rotations is important in producing an efficient strike on ball so that the maximum amount of energy is transferred from the club to the ball.