What data should you focus on when practicing in a simulator?

Welcome to GOLF’s Top 100 Teacher roundtable, where some of the best instructors in the business answer the game’s most pressing questions. The goal? To help your game and lower your scores ASAP.

Practicing in a simulator is a great way to get some reps during the winter. But as practice in your hitting bay, you may become overwhelmed by the amount of data the sim throws at you.

With each shot you hit, there are dozens of data points recorded and shared on screen, This is great for optimizing your swing, but for most golfers, it can also be a bit of information overload.

So, when you go to the sim to hit balls, which data points should you really be focused on? We asked a panel of Top 100 Teachers for their input.

1. Low point

Low point, swing direction and smash factor are what I’d recommend. Simulator mats provide a false security because most golfers don’t really know if they have the right swing bottom. Solid hits with the low point in the right place, heading in the right direction will get you ready for the season in the real world, on the grass. —Martin Chuck

2. Clubface keys

Any piece of data that has to deal with contact on the face (ball speed, smash factor, and location) is useful, but it also depends on what you are trying to improve. Clubface data is important for most recreational golfers, though, so keep an eye on that. —Michael Hunt

3. Start direction

Start direction and spin axis. If your draws are starting right and the spins axis is left (or vice versus) over and over again, you’ve created a reliable shot pattern. From there you can work on tightening up the numbers or fine tuning others. —Jason Carbone

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