In order to help deliver a beneficially custom fitting, the PGA Professional will have the assistance of a launch monitor to help track the player’s trends. It’s important that player’s understand the importance of performance trends. Since, a lot of times, a player can become caught up with one isolated shot, which is not an accurate reflection of their game overall / average performance. Especially for a fitter, the PGA Professional must consider what the player’s most common move consists of. Looking at trends will help provide the best club recommendations for a player’s tendencies and preferences.
At the Academy, Kenny and Niall provide our custom fitting service, with the help of the Trackman launch monitor. For a golfer heading into a custom fitting it may be useful to be aware of which data parameters the fitter is using and how they link back to the equipment:
Clubhead Speed: this parameter will help the fitter find the correct shaft flex for a particular player. For high speed players, they will need a stiffer shaft, whereas a slower swing speed will lend itself to a more flexible shaft.
Ball Speed: this parameter prompts the fitter to consider the loft of the club as well as the impact position. If the player is now hitting it out of the centre, the fitter may adjust the length of the club. Tinkering with the loft of the club may also positively influence ball speed. Maximising this parameter without sacrificing accuracy, is a green light in terms of golf club performance.
Spin rate: can be a great indication for distance and trajectory. High spin players may play with a high trajectory, which could decrease the control on the ball and lower distance. Low speed players may not generate enough spin to keep the ball in the air, pointing the fitter to look at more lofted clubheads.
Sometimes, a player’s data is too erratic, leading to a discussion about working on swing consistency first, prior to conducting a fitting. If this happens, players may benefit more from some golf lessons. As well as this, in a lesson, your coach can explain, justify and show you how to enhance the above parameters before your custom fitting.
