Short-Game Research & Methodology

Ballistic Movement (Full-Swing Mechanics)

• Pre-planned in the motor cortex
  Full swings are initiated as a pre-programmed action.
• Released by the basal ganglia
  Once selected, the movement is triggered and sent automatically.
• No mid-swing adjustments
  The sequence runs to completion—fast, powerful, and not correctable once started.
• Stable under pressure
  Because the brain runs this as an “open-loop” program, full-swing mechanics stay consistent even in high-stress situations.
• Golf SEO terms: full swing mechanics, power swing, golf swing technique, consistent golf swing

Fine Motor Skill (Wedge Play, Chipping & Putting)

• Planning (Prefrontal & Parietal Cortex)
  The brain plans a precise shot, integrating sensory and spatial information.
• Initiation (Primary Motor Cortex – M1)
  Sends the first command down the corticospinal tract for controlled muscle activation.
• Gating & Sequencing (Basal Ganglia)
  Selects the correct movement pattern and suppresses unwanted motion.
• Coordination & Error Correction (Cerebellum)
  Compares intended vs. actual movement—critical for speed control, face angle, and tempo.
• Relay (Thalamus)
  Combines refined signals from the basal ganglia and cerebellum.
• Feedback Loop (Returned to Motor Cortex)
  Allows real-time adjustments throughout the stroke—distance control, loft, face rotation.