Validity and reliability of a new method for measuring putting stroke kinematics using the TOMI system

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Golf Technology

Background:

• Accurate measurement of putting stroke kinematics is crucial for performance analysis in golf.
• Existing methods may have limitations in precision or accessibility.
• The TOMI device offers a novel approach to quantifying putting motion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the validity and reliability of the TOMI device for measuring three-dimensional (3D) putting stroke kinematics.
• To assess the accuracy of the TOMI device in capturing key parameters like face angle, stroke path, and impact spot.
• To determine the practical significance of measurement errors in relation to putting outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Simultaneous data collection using a putting robot and high-speed camera for validity assessment.
• Utilizing the TOMI device in conjunction with 3D coordinate data processing.
• Quantifying validity using the 95% limits of agreement method.
• Assessing practical significance by incorporating measurement error into robot putting strokes.

Main Results:

• The TOMI device demonstrated validity and reliability in measuring putting stroke kinematics.
• Key variables measured include face angle, stroke path, putter speed, and impact spot.
• Measurement errors were found to be negligible, with all test putts successfully holed.

Conclusions:

• The TOMI device is a valid and reliable tool for measuring 3D putting stroke kinematics.
• The system's accuracy is sufficient for practical applications in golf biomechanics.
• Further research can explore the influence of kinematic errors on putting performance.