ABSTRACT
Two mathematical models for the golf putting stroke are described, analysed and compared. These are the pendulum model and the rotation model. The rotation model is preferred because its conceptual model is more realistic. This model results in a straight back straight through stroke if the plane of rotation is vertical, or an inside to inside stroke if the plane of rotation is inclined. Allowing the angle of the plane to be different for the backswing and follow through allows it to produce an inside to square stroke. Importantly, the model in itself gives no preference between the inside to inside and straight back straight through strokes. The model also predicts that for the inside to inside stroke the putter head should follow a planar path. Research is required to further test the validity of the models by measuring both the precise path that the putter head takes in the putting strokes of the best putters and the anatomical movements that occur during the stroke.
