Physical Preparation Podcast Archives - Robertson Training Systems

Golf Swing Biomechanics & Power Assessment Explained with Jack Wells

Mar 6, 2026
Jack Wells, a PhD biomechanics researcher and S&C expert for golf, explains how golf power really works and why measurement matters. He breaks down force-plate profiling, impulse and jump-to-clubhead links. Practical, low-cost assessment tricks and contest-ready isometric tests are discussed. Clear, science-backed rationale for coaching choices ties it all together.
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INSIGHT

Reverse Engineer Drive Distance To Force

  • Hitting the golf ball farther tracks back to club head speed which is driven by club-applied force and time to apply it.
  • Jack Wells reverse engineers: drive distance → ball velocity → club head speed → golfer force → ground reaction forces.
INSIGHT

Vertical Forces Drive Swing Power

  • Ground reaction forces are tri-directional but vertical forces dominate golf swing power production.
  • Therefore vertical-orientated gym tasks (squats, deadlifts, single‑leg work) are justifiable to increase leg extensor force and swing momentum.
INSIGHT

Tech Is Useful But Requires Translation

  • High‑end profiling mixes in‑context swing measures (force plates, 3D) and out‑of‑context gym tests, but lab data must be translated for coaches.
  • Pose‑estimation (markerless 3D) currently has notable errors; visual error implies poor validity.
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