Extended Reality as a training approach for visual real-time feedback in golf

• Published in: IEEE transactions on learning technologies Vol. 17; pp. 1 - 11
• Main Authors: Geisen, Mai, Nicklas, Andre, Baumgartner, Tobias, Klatt, Stefanie
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Piscataway IEEE 01.01.2024; The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE)
• Subjects: Computer Assisted Instruction; Control Groups; exercise; Feedback; Learning systems; Mixed Reality; performance feedback; putting; Real time; Real-time systems; Sports; Teaching Methods; Training; Videos; Visualization; X reality
• ISSN: 1939-1382; 2372-0050
• DOI: 10.1109/TLT.2023.3322660

Visual feedback can enhance motor learning in golf, however, so far, this has mostly been time-delayed. Using Extended Reality (XR), learners can receive visual feedback in real-time without relying on an external perspective. The aim of this study was to investigate a novel XR-based method of real-time feedback for golf putt training. Thirty-two subjects were divided between a XR-group and a technique instruction (TI) training group, completing three weeks of training each, and a no-training control (NTc) group. XR training included a virtual club projected into the real training environment via HoloLens 2. Real-time information was provided on the pre-calculated targeted club alignment and velocity. The TI method included written technical instructions already used in golf putt training. Before and after the training, all subjects performed a pre-, post- and retention-test, and two transfer-tests with shorter (2 m) and longer (4 m) putting distances than during training (3 m). Results showed a significant increase in the number of hits and a significant decrease in the radial error after training in all groups. The number of hits remained the same during the retention-test and at shorter putting distance, but decreased at longer distance. The radial error decreased even more during the retention-test and revealed no difference between putting distances. Our study shows that the acquisition of golf putting skills can be enhanced not only through a proven technique instruction training, but also by incorporating visual real-time feedback via XR. Future studies could examine the extent to which the effects of this method exceed those of technique instruction training over a longer period when learners can familiarize themselves with it more.