Biomechanics of Golf
Biomechanics of Golf - 2026 Revision
What If you could understand the science behind every shot outcome? Unlock the data, mechanics, and movement patterns that drive golf performance with Penn State University's Biomechanics of Golf – 2026 Revision.
Launching this fall through the Suzy and Jim Broadhurst Golf Teaching and Research Center, this enhanced program features cutting-edge content on ball flight, advanced club delivery, 3D biomechanics including motions and forces, and markerless motion capture technologies. Learn how modern golf science is transforming player development and performance analysis.
Designed as a step-by-step learning experience, the program guides participants through sequential modules that must be completed in order. As you progress, you'll earn digital badges that showcase your accomplishments and demonstrate mastery of key concepts.
From players seeking a competitive edge to coaches looking to deepen their expertise, this program turns complex biomechanical concepts into actionable insights for better golf performance.
Stay informed and be among the first to access this innovative learning experience. Sign up below to receive program updates, additional details, and notification when the official launch date is announced.
Biomechanics of Golf - Curriculum
Introduction to Ball Flight
(Module 1 of 6)
NEW CONTENT - This is for anyone who has ever hit a golf ball and wondered, "Why did my golf ball do that?". In this lesson, we will cover the basics of ball flight including start direction, curve, and distance.
Advanced Ball Flight and Club Delivery
(Module 2 of 6)
NEW CONTENT - Students will develop an understanding of ball flight tracking systems and the physics behind ball flight. In addition to face-to-path relationships this content will include details about how key swing mechanics such as swing direction, angle of attack, low point, and swing plane influence club delivery and the resulting ball flight.
Introduction to Golf Biomechanics Systems
(Module 3 of 6)
In this module, you will learn about the extensive use of various technologies within sports, how motion capture technology was developed, how 3D biomechanical analyses are applied in both sport and clinical settings, the components that make up 3D motion analysis systems (including new markerless motion capture systems), and the 3D model creation process.
Kinematics: The Motions of Golf
(Module 4 of 6)
This module will focus on the kinematics, or motions, of the golf swing. Students will be introduced to several biomechanics terms and begin to understand how these terms are used within discussion and evaluation of the golf swing. In addition, we will provide advanced golf biomechanics discussions of full body movements in 3D. Finally, we will break down some of the data available from 3D systems — specifically position vs. time graphs, and velocity vs. time graphs.
Kinetics: The Forces of Golf
(Module 5 of 6)
If coaches and golfers are interested in being able to fully understand, and possibly adjust, the motions of the body in the golf swing, then we must have a solid foundational understanding of the kinetics (forces) in the golf swing. This module will provide an introduction to ground reaction forces (full 3D under each foot) and examples of how they influence the motions of the golf swing.
Analysis and Application of 3D Data
(Module 6 of 6)
Students will be introduced to a Swing Analysis Framework we use when evaluating a swing in 3D. They will come to understand how we evaluate a swing within the context of this framework using kinematics and kinetics data. In addition, students will be provided with access to Interactive 3D Web Reports and additional golf swing examples to analyze. Finally, students will integrate and apply all learning from the previous five modules within an interactive case study and a comprehensive exam.
Biomechanics of Injury Prevention in Golf
(Elective)
NEW CONTENT - Students will gain a foundational understanding of golf injury epidemiology and the biomechanical mechanisms by which soft tissue injuries occur during the swing. More details are to follow!
Contributing Authors
Eric Handley, PGA
Director, Suzy and Jim Broadhurst Golf Teaching and Research Center
Dan Merrell, PGA
Head of Coaching and Player Development, Suzy and Jim Broadhurst Golf Teaching and Research Center
Joe LeSueur, PhD
Head of Research, Suzy and Jim Broadhurst Golf Teaching and Research Center
Mike Duffey, PhD Rob Neal, PhD
Golf Biomechanist Golf Biomechanist
Samuel Masters, PhD Danny Davis, PhD
Biomechanics Researcher Biomechanics Researcher