Taxonomy of golf putting: Do different golf putting techniques exist?

Abstract

This study is a preliminary investigation into the use of cluster analysis to determine if different putting techniques existed in a group of club level golfers.

Putting at a hole 4 m away, the performances of 34 experienced golfers (age 55.3 ± 17.8 years and handicap 15.3 ± 6.9, range 3–27) were analysed using putter head kinematic and centre of pressure data. Two distinct putting techniques were identified (named as Arm putting and Body putting), this being the first time different putting techniques have been reported in the research literature. These techniques were defined by parameters related solely to movement of the centre of pressure along the line of the putt. Some players (17 of 34) moved between techniques when performing their putting trials. Neither technique produced more accurate putt results (P = 0.783).

Putting technique was further analysed after grouping players according to handicap (similar skill level) or accuracy (similar putting performance). The lack of significant findings when players were re-analysed according to handicap or accuracy highlights the importance of the correct methodological approach to detecting technique differences.

Keywords:

• golf putting
• technique
• cluster analysis