Kinetic constrained optimization of the golf swing hub path

This study details an optimization of the golf swing, where the hand path and club angular trajectories are manipulated. The optimization goal was to maximize club head velocity at impact within the interaction kinetic limitations (force, torque, work, and power) of the golfer as determined through the analysis of a typical swing using a two-dimensional dynamic model. The study was applied to four subjects with diverse swing capabilities and styles. It was determined that it is possible for all subjects to increase their club head velocity at impact within their respective kinetic limitations through combined modifications to their respective hand path and club angular trajectories. The manner of the modifications, the degree of velocity improvement, the amount of kinetic reduction, and the associated kinetic limitation quantities were subject dependent. By artificially minimizing selected kinetic inputs within the optimization algorithm, it was possible to identify swing trajectory characteristics that indicated relative kinetic weaknesses of a subject. Practical implications are offered based upon the findings of the study.

Title	Kinetic constrained optimization of the golf swing hub path
Creator	Nesbit, Steven M.
Creator	McGinnis, R. S.
Publisher	Journal of Sports Science and Medicine
Academic Department	Mechanical Engineering
Division	Engineering
Organization	Lafayette College
Date Issued	December 2014
Date Available	2014-12-18T13:57:45Z
Type	Article
Language	English
Keyword	kinematics
	kinetics
	Golf swing biomechanics
	optimization
	hand path
Bibliographic Citation	Nesbit, S. M. and R. S. McGinnish (2014) "Kinetic constrained optimization of the golf swing hub path." Journal of Sports Science and Medicine 13 (4): 859-873.
Standard Identifier	Handle 10385/1524
Permalink	http://hdl.handle.net/10385/1524
Rights Statement	In Copyright
Rights Holders	Journal of Sports Science and Medicine