Locating positions for measuring a golf swing with inertial measurement units: A pilot study

Golfers often face challenges in refining their swings, seeking cost-effective ways to enhance their techniques. Traditional coaching methods are costly and since they rely on the human eye, these techniques often miss important golf swing movements owing to the rapid pace of a golf swing. To address this shortcoming, an investigation into the potential of IMU sensors for the mapping of golf swings to aid both instructors and golfers was undertaken. Focusing on the leading shoulder's horizontal position relative to the club head, the study addresses two questions: determining whether IMUs can map a golf swing as well as determining the minimum IMU sensors required to track a golf swing. Thus, the goal of this pilot study was to identify if there are optimal placements for IMUs on the body. The premise is that by performing a consistent golf swing, golfers could improve their handicap. Thus, by tracking and visually displaying the phases of the golf swing, such data could aid in increased golf swing consistency by analysing not only the phases of the golf swing, but also the bodily movements. This pilot study relied on six participants who each repeatedly performed golf swings. IMUs were positioned in eight positions around the body from ankle to shoulder and several trials were conducted for each position. The results showed that IMUs were useful in tracking a golf swing; however, certain bodily positions, such as the hip, leading knee, and leading foot, did not yield meaningful data as compared to the other positions. The IMU data from the back and front of the wrist and the leading shoulder provided useful mappings of the golf swing, including the timing and intensity. Analysis of body posture angles, especially wrist flexion, hip, and shoulder rotation angles, offered valuable data that may be useful to both coaches and players. By discerning patterns in successful and unsuccessful swings, coaches could provide informed feedback to golfers, aiding golfers in refining their techniques. These findings demonstrate the potential of IMU sensors in golf instruction, offering a data-driven approach to enhance golfers' performance and consistency on the golf course.