Trace Definition
A plotted line representing the location of the CoP on the ground at each instance in time during a particular movement.
Types of Traces
- Scattered Trace
- Abbreviated Trace
- Fish Hook Trace
- Heel-Toe Trace
- Lateral Trace
- Linear Trace
- Figure 8 Trace
- Z Trace
Scattered Trace
Vertical Forces are moving in all directions during the Golfer’s Swing;
therefore, energy is moving in all directions.
Swing Balance: Poor
Power Range: Can cover the entire range
Recommended Use: Never
Suggested Drill(s): Step Drill, Gary Player Drill ( Walking through the shot )
Abbreviated Trace
Very little movement of the CoP to the Trail Foot followed by movement directly to the mid-lead Foot.
Swing Balance: Excellent
Power Rating: All Ranges
Recommended Use: Short Shots, knock down, off-speed shots- those with a high level of control Ryuji Imada
Fish Hook Trace
CoP moves to Mid/Heel of the Trail Foot, followed bythe CoP moving towards the Toe of the Lead Foot, finishing with a rapid CoP motion to the Heel/Mid Lead Foot prior to impact creating the “Fish Hook” appearance.
Swing Balance: Fair
Power Rating: Mid to High
Recommended Use: Driver Maybe
Suggested Drill(s): Curl Up the Toes Drill ( Sam Snead Drill )
Heel-Toe Trace
CoP moves diagonally from Heel-Trail Foot to toe-Lead Foot.
Swing Balance: High to Excellent
Power Rating: High
Recommended Use: Seen primarily with power hitters and handsy players. A challenging trace, as the golfer’s balance is being thrown towards Lead Toe Foot at impact it requires excessive compensation of hand action during the downswing to square the club at Impact
Suggested Drill(s):
