Horizontal swing plane (or Swing Path) describes the direction the club is moving at the lowest point of the swing in relation to the target line. It's different to club path which also takes account of the vertical plane and attack angle of the swing. Using a launch monitor can shine a light on what the numbers are and give you all the data you need to improve.
Flight time is how long the ball stays in the air from impact to landing. Because it's easy to understand, it's importance is often overlooked. It relates to distance control, being able to handle the conditions on the day, and stopping power on the green. Using golf tech such as launch monitors can help measure and track your progress and learn to use flight time to your advantage.
Clubface Angle is often referred to as Face to Target, and it's the angle of your clubface at impact relative to the target line. Leave it open and the ball starts right (Push), Close it off and the ball starts left (Pull) - getting it right is a skill, and learning to control it will make you a more consistent player.
Spin axis is the axis around which the ball is rotating relative to the ground. The angle of this axis determines the curvature of the ball, and the spin rate and ball speed of the ball determines how far it curves. Once you learn how to manipulate the spin axis through face angle and club path by controlling your swing, you can play a round and be able to draw and fade the ball flight as required and in control, which will lower your scores.
Horizontal launch angle (or Launch Direction) is the direction the ball starts relative to your target line. It's measured in degrees compared to the target line. The Launch Direction (or Horizontal Launch Angle) will mostly dictate where the shot ends up. By learning how to control the clubface through your swing and at impact you can start the ball on the right path and be more accurate. And this is where golf tech can help make the difference.
Smash factor is the efficiency of your strike. The equation is straightforward but understanding what it means and how to maximise it is another question. In this article we explain what it is, what it means and how to use it to improve with a golf launch monitor
