A New Method for Measuring Grip Force and its Distribution during the Golf Swing

Abstract

In light of clear disagreement within the golf community over how grip pressure or force should be established, maintained and/or controlled during the golf swing, a new method of measuring grip force has been developed and is presented. The method, featuring a flexible pressure array, provides minimal interference with the golfer's actions, permits assessment of grip pressures and forces on a golfer's own equipment, and offers a more comprehensive picture of the actions of the hands of a golfer during shot execution Exemplar data are presented which agree with prior estimations and measurements, such as the dominance in left hand control during the swing and the reduction in force near impact for some skilled golfers. The data also clearly demonstrate the value in parceling total grip pressure into anatomic sites within the two hands. Future applications of the method are discussed and appear promising