Quantitative Analysis of the Follow-Through Phase in Golf Swing Using Wrist-Mounted IMU Sensor

The golf swing's follow-through is a crucial phase, influencing both performance optimization and injury prevention. However, the quantitative analysis of this phase is challenging, often relying on laboratory-based motion capture systems or subjective evaluations by coaches. This study introduces an alternative approach using a wearable inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor to differentiate swing profiles between golfers with low and high handicaps and identify the follow-through stage. Data, gathered from IMU, MPU6050 sensors, worn on the wrist during driver swings, revealed notable differences in timing and rotational speed profiles. Specifically, a distinct post-impact rotational pattern, indicative of the follow-through, was observed in the low-handicap golfers but not in their high-handicap counterparts. This suggests that IMU-based swing analysis offers a cost-effective and accessible tool for quantitatively assessing the follow-through.