First
Aid
VIDEO
A picture may be worth 1,000
words
by
Dr. Gary Wiren,
PGA Master Instructor
The use of video electronics in golf instruction is
certainly not new. Yet, it is surprising how many golfers have never
seen their swing on TV and how many professionals do not use this
technology. Many reject it out-of-hand as an unnecessary complication
of what should be a "natural" movement; unsullied by gadgetry and
extensive analysis. To each his or her own. On the one hand, it can
be argued that the game has survived and developed quite nicely,
thank you, without video, for hundreds of years. On the other hand,
medicine did the same thing before X-rays were invented. Providing
your doctor doesn't rely entirely on the pictures for his diagnosis,
and your pro doesn't do the same with what ails your swing, the
visual aid may promote improvement without complicating
treatment.
Why use video? Because sight is one of the most
effective senses in teaching motor skills. For years, young caddies
learned the game by watching the swings of their employers. It was
visual learning and it worked for Hagen, Hogan, Sarazen, Snead,
Nelson, and a host of others. A magazine, a mirror, or the pros'
demonstrations are all forms of visual learning. But capturing the
swing in motion and having immediate feedback capability are great
advantages which are available only with video. The "proof" in
pictures in living color can kill the doubt of a skeptic and promote
learning and improvements. Comments like, "My god, I really do lock
that knee!" or "You're right! My weight is reversing on the
backswing. It sure didn't feel that way," quickly point up one of the
best assets to using video. In fact, some professionals categorically
state that, without pictures, they are "just guessing."
Seeing your swing on TV for the first time can be
very surprising. Remember the initial shock when you first heard your
voice on an audio tape recorder? Many people have a similar reaction
at seeing themselves on TV. Most of us react favorably to our swings,
but negatively to our physical appearance. "Boy, my swing doesn't
look half bad...but am I overweight!" is a common reaction.
Thirty years ago last July, I rolled out my first
piece of video equipment for a much publicized public showing at
Oakway, a daily fee course in Eugene, Oregon. I say "rolled out"
because the AMPEX recorder-player-camera was so heavy, I had to have
a specially built sturdy, three-decked cart on wheels to transport
the cumbersome equipment. And, advance publicity had produced a
good-sized Saturday morning crowd.
Two "pupils" were selected (a man and a woman) to
start things off. We had them hit, then went to the nearby monitor
for analysis. After showing the woman her swing on the screen, I
asked her what she thought. "Well, I see I need to go on a diet," she
replied. Thus, in my first ever video lesson, I learned that
simply taking motion pictures and replaying them is
just the beginning.
It's up to you to decide if you've had a few too many
desserts, and whether video is, in your case, a valuable teacher and
tool. The first step is to research the subject. Talk to a
professional who uses it, as well as one who doesn't - opinions from
both sides can help. If your own pro has a system, the first step is
easy. If he or she does not have a video, explain what you'd like to
do and ask for a recommendation on a pro who teaches with it, just so
that you may see.
Where do you fall when it comes to utilizing video
for learning or instruction? Are you among the totally
uninitiated...one who is casually acquainted...a dissatisfied owner
of equipment that is collecting dust in the back room...or perhaps a
regular and successful user of this powerful yet still evolving form
of audio-visual communication?
If you don't own equipment and think that you may
wish to buy, explore the possibilities. Allow yourself a lesson with
a camera-wielding pro before you decide to spend money on your own
equipment. Know what you're looking for in personal improvement,
equipment, and the investment of your time, money and energy.
Finally, if you do enter the video marketplace by
making a purchase, be sure and take the time to read the operating
instructions and maintenance guide thoroughly, even if you have video
experience. Some buyers are so excited about their new "toy" that
they learn only a few basics or rely on old information and wind up
never finding out all that their equipment can do.
Gary Wiren is a PGA Master Instructor and a Ph.D.
He operates "Golf Around the World" in Lake Park, Florida. The
company conducts golf seminars, schools and personal visits, and
sells golf teaching aids, books and videotapes. Call 561-625-1928 or
800-824-4279 for information.
Garyw@floridagolfing.com
