What is Trackman?
Trackman is a state-of-the-art radar system that tracks the ball and club movement in real time. Used by both amateur golfers and professionals, Trackman provides a comprehensive analysis of every shot, offering data on ball speed, launch angle, spin rate, and more. This data is invaluable for identifying strengths and weaknesses in your game.
How Does It Work?
The Trackman simulator utilizes Doppler radar technology to monitor the flight of the golf ball and the clubhead. It captures a wealth of information, that can be overwhelming if you do not know what it all means. Below is our favorite data to have on the screen with an explanation of each. Ask your professional to include the following data when setting you up.
Total Distance: The total distance the ball hit travels – including roll.
Carry Distance: The distance the ball hit travels in the air. It is very important to know both the total and carry distance of each of your clubs when making club selections on the course.
Club Path: Club Path is the direction the club head is moving (right or left) at impact and is measured relative to the target line. A negative number for a right-handed golfer means the club is coming into impact from outside of the target line while a positive number for a right-handed golfer means the club is coming into impact from inside of the target line. The ideal range for a straight ball flight is -2° to 2°. This is opposite for left-handed golfers.
Face Angle: Face Angle is the direction the club face is pointed (right or left) at impact and is measured relative to the target line. This number is easily confused with “Face to Path” which is the face angle direction relative to the path rather than the target line. A negative number for a right-handed golfer means the club is coming into impact from outside of the target line while a positive number for a right-handed golfer means the club is coming into impact from inside of the target line. The ideal range for a straight ball flight is -2° to 2°. This is opposite for left-handed golfers.
Dynamic Loft: Dynamic Loft is the amount of loft on the club face at impact and is measured relative to the horizon. Creating the proper Dynamic Loft is important to creating the optimal trajectory and maximizing carry. A golfer’s attack angle, how the club head is released and where the ball makes contact on the club face can all affect Dynamic Loft.
Attack Angle: Measured relative to the horizon, Attack Angle is the up or down movement of the club head at the time of maximum compression. In general golf shots hit off the ground should have a negative Attack Angle. To maximize distance with your driver, hitting up on the ball (positive Attack Angle) is a must.
Spin Rate: Significantly influencing the height and distance of a shot, Spin Rate is the amount of spin on the golf ball immediately after impact. Spin Rate is one of the least appreciated numbers, especially in windy conditions. A high Spin Rate is the enemy, particularly when hitting into the wind. One way to reduce spin is to hit a lower lofted club. More loft generally increases Spin Rate. All things being equal, more club speed will also increase Spin Rate.
Benefits of Using Trackman
1. Improved Accuracy – With precise data on your swing and ball flight, Trackman allows you to make targeted improvements. By understanding the nuances of your swing, you can adjust your technique for greater accuracy and distance.
2. Personalized Coaching –Trackman’s detailed analytics can aid golf instructors in tailoring lessons to meet your specific needs. Instructors can focus on your unique strengths and weaknesses, providing personalized drills that can lead to faster improvements.
3. Simulated Course Experience – The hot new golf courses released to Trackman in July of 2024 include: Barnbougle Dunes (Australia), Barnbougle Lost Farm (Australia), Golfpark Moossee (Switzerland), Sea Island Plantation (USA), Stock Brook Country Club (United Kingdom), The Camellia Course at Killearn Club (USA), WGC Gütersloh (Germany), Zwartkop Country Club (South Africa).
4. Year-Round Practice – One of the significant advantages of using a golf simulator is the ability to practice regardless of weather conditions. Whether it’s snowing outside or raining, you can work on your game in the comfort of an indoor facility.
5. Performance Tracking – Trackman allows you to track your progress over time. Create an account with Trackman to save and track your data from session to session. Scan the QR code on the bottom right of the screen in your bay to check in and bring up your settings. You can also pre-set the course and settings prior to your session to maximize your booked bay time.
6. Fun and Engaging – Golf can sometimes feel repetitive, especially during practice in the winter season. Trackman incorporates games and challenges that make practicing enjoyable. This gamification of practice can keep you engaged and encourage you to put in more time on the range.
Incorporating a Trackman golf simulator into your practice routine can provide significant benefits, enhancing both your skills and enjoyment of the game. Whether you’re working with a coach or practicing solo, the insights you gain from Trackman can help you unlock your full golfing potential. Check out one of our RedWater LiveGolf locations this winter: https://www.livegolfstudios.com/
Happy swinging!
