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Swing Catalyst Articles

Vertical forces in golf

This page explains how vertical ground reaction forces (GRFs) in a golf swing, particularly during the downswing, enhance power and club speed. It covers biomechanics, muscle activation, and the importance of pressure shifts for maximizing vertical forces.

Force vs pressure

This page highlights the difference between force and pressure in golf swings, showing how force plates provide a fuller picture of 3D ground reaction forces, while pressure plates only measure vertical forces.

The force factor

This article explains the Swing Catalyst Force Factor, a measure of a golfer's potential to generate torque relative to body mass. It highlights how the Force Factor helps assess a golfer's explosiveness and links it to clubhead speed for better swing performance.

Visualize success with balance plate and pressure data

This article covers how the Swing Catalyst Balance Plate uses pressure data to help golfers improve their swing. It explains key features like heat mapping, pressure distribution, and vertical force, allowing players to optimize balance and power during their swings.

Ground reaction force

This article explains how ground reaction forces (GRFs) influence a golfer's swing by analyzing the vertical, horizontal, and rotational forces applied through the feet. It breaks down the role of each force component in generating power and torque, which are key to improving swing efficiency.

Do increased vertical forces equal increased carry distance?

This article discusses whether increased vertical ground reaction forces (GRFs) lead to more carry distance in golf. It uses examples like Matthew Wolff’s swing and emphasizes the importance of timing, showing that more force isn't always better and should be tailored to the individual golfer.

The kinetic sequence

This article explores the "Kinetic Sequence" in golf, which shows how ground reaction forces peak in a specific order during the downswing: horizontal force first, followed by torque, and then vertical force. This sequence is consistent across many golfers and crucial for maximizing swing power and efficiency.

Golf from the ground up

This article explains how golfers use ground reaction forces to create torque and maximize clubhead speed. It breaks down the kinetic chain, starting with the feet, and highlights how pressing against the ground generates the forces needed for an effective swing.

Weight shift or pressure shift?

This article explains the difference between weight shift and pressure shift in golf. It shows how pressure shift, measured by the Swing Catalyst Balance Plate, refers to the force exerted through the feet, while weight shift refers to body mass movement. The article highlights how both shifts impact swing performance.

Body mass and pressure

This article explores the difference between body mass and pressure during a golf swing, focusing on how they behave independently, especially during the transition from backswing to downswing. It uses PGA Tour player Kevin Streelman's swing to illustrate how pressure can increase in one foot while body mass shifts to the other.