Effects of visual perspective, ball position and distance on the accuracy of a putted ball in golf

Abstract

The influence on putting accuracy due to the position of the eyes relative to the ball, the position of the ball relative to the stance and the distance of the putt was determined. Putts were performed by thirty two beginning golfers on a level indoor putting surface from distances of 6 and 15 feet. Dependent measures included putts made (hit data) and putts not made (miss data which was measured in the X [long,short] and Y [left,right] directions). Results indicated that overall, the forward ball position was most accurate, possibly due to its stabilizing effect on the stance. On shorter putts, it is recommended that the eyes be positioned over the ball. A reasonable view of the target is achieved from this position and, in combination with the forward ball position, yielded accurate results. On longer putts the eyes should be positioned along the ball-target line since the view of the target appears to provide an important advantage in terms of putting accuracy. There appears to be an as yet undetermined optimal range for accuracy for the eyes along the ball-target line position. Results of this study may be applicable only to putts performed on a level surface.