Understanding Stroke Path and Plane

A different way of thinking about straight back and through or arc.

In the Burnt Edge System, nine stroke profiles can be created using various methods. However, let’s simplify the explanation by categorizing these methods into two main types: On Plane or Linear and Non-Linear or Freestyle. Another way to look at it is whether you’re an engineer, regimented, and proactive, preferring a linear concept, or an artist, non-linear, and reactive to the situation.

Let’s begin this discussion with Linear or On Plane: A hot topic these days as we witness the resurgence of toe-up or neutrally balanced putters. In this context, the putter follows a path defined by the source of motion, which is on a plane. Initially, we analyze the shoulder complex or tilt of the shoulder blades and spine during the evaluation process. Below, we present three examples. On the left, we observe shoulders tilted to rotate on a more vertical plane of 12°. In the middle, we see a tilt where the shoulders are parallel to the shaft angle, which is 20°. On the right, the posture is taller, and the spine/shoulder angle is 27°.

At this point, let’s make a small disclaimer. For those who use stroke plane measurements from diagnostic equipment, your actual numbers may differ. This is because we’re using static measurements of the player, rather than defining stroke plane based on the putter’s path. We believe this distinction is crucial, and we’ll illustrate it when we discuss non-linear stroke types.

Let’s assume for now each player uses a passive hand and arms connected, as the shoulder blades rotate around the spine, source of motion. Within a couple of degrees each player’s path would match an arc defined by stroke plane and regardless of the size of the arc we would consider all three linear! In our system, from left to right, this would be Profile 2, then 5, then 8, assuming parallel to target line shoulder alignment. However, depending on ball position relative to the player the putter would remain square to the path, only when the shoulder tilt is PARALLEL to the shaft angle, as the middle player shows. Player left would show a closed to open to the path rotation, player right an open to closed rotation. In the left and right examples, if body type or vision dictates a posture and a ball position that doesn’t match the shaft angle to shoulder tilt, we suggest a different movement pattern or fit the putter to the rotation pattern rather than the arc or stroke plane. For example, for player left, in order to stay on plane. We would suggest to swing the hands on a linear path and allow the rest of the body to react, think Jack Nicklaus or Dave Stockton. For Player Right we would look at the arms swinging the hands with no chest rotation. Think Ben Crenshaw. The stroke plane in this case becomes much more vertical than the shoulders define. Basically in this model the plane is defined by the arm with the least bend at the elbow, from the shoulder joint to the wrist and that becomes the dominant side of the stroke. Tiger Woods is another example. Arms swing from the shoulder joints with minimal chest rotation.

Next time we will review, the available sources of motion and how these sources becomes non-linear. Finally in the 3rd installment, we will discuss how to match putter types to this perspective.

For those who might be interested, We have re-opened personal evaluations and consultation. FYI this is not a one time lesson, but consultation on how to find the best pattern for each individual. If you message me, I can get you more details on how to participate. I am also considering  Zoom Conversations on specific topics. The pricing will be scaled depending on previous interaction with me. If there is any interest let me know and we can get the first one scheduled.