Center of Pressure Excursion during the Golf Putting Stroke in Low, Mid and High Handicap Golfers

Abstract

Golf handicap is significantly correlated to putting performance with low handicap golfers (LH) demonstrating increased putting accuracy compared with high handicap golfers (HH). Smaller center of pressure excursion (CPE) during putting has been demonstrated by LH golfers, suggesting balance is important during successful putts. The aim of this study was to examine CPE in low, mid and high handicap golfers about the mediolateral axis (ML) and anteriorposterior axis (AP). Nineteen subjects participated in the study; subjects were split into LH, mid handicap and HH groups. Subjects completed five successful 2.5m putts, standing on an RS FootScan. The LH group demonstrated significantly smaller CPE in comparison with the HH group about the AP axis, for all three phases of the putt. No significant differences were found between the groups about the ML axis. The reduction of CPE about the AP axis suggests increased balance in that direction, which may contribute to increased accuracy. Coaches should place emphasis on reducing CPE about the AP axis, consequently increasing balance during the putting stroke.