A framework for the body-swing relationship
The Titleist Performance Institute teaches an approach to understanding movement in golf, built on a simple observation: many swing characteristics are expressions of what a golfer's body can and cannot do. Daniel has completed TPI Medical Level 3 and TPI Golf Level 3, the advanced tier in both the clinical and coaching tracks, alongside his chiropractic qualification and SFMA Level 2 training. If you are new to the certification and want the full picture of levels and tracks, start with our plain language explainer on TPI.
What the screen samples
A TPI style screen is a sequence of brief physical tests covering the rotations, hinges, balance and separations the swing depends on: whether the pelvis and torso rotate independently, whether the hips internally rotate, whether you can hinge, squat and balance on each leg. Results correlate to swing characteristics. A golfer who cannot squat or whose lead hip will not rotate tends to produce early extension; a golfer whose wrists lack hinge or strength tends toward casting. The screen tells us which swing characteristics are body limited, which is exactly the information a lesson cannot generate on its own.
Where the medical track changes the visit
A screen identifies patterns worth examining; it does not say what is causing them. That difference is the reason the Medical track exists. When a hip tests short, the possibilities include muscular tightness, the joint's own shape, or an irritable structure, three findings with three different plans, distinguishable by clinical examination rather than by screening. Research imaging in elite golfers shows structural hip findings are common, which is why a stiff hip that pinches gets examined before it gets stretched: the full explanation is here. In a Magnolia evaluation the screen is the front door; the clinical examination walks through it.
The evidence behind screening golfers
The physical findings the screen looks for are the same ones the research implicates. Golfers with low back pain histories show limited lead hip internal rotation and reduced trunk mobility and strength in comparison studies, while their swings look the same on camera as pain free golfers. The body, not the video, holds the difference. Our guides to golf and low back pain and golf injury statistics cover that research in detail.
From findings to your plan
Your evaluation includes an explanation of the findings, a written report and personalized exercises. With your permission, Daniel can discuss relevant findings with your instructor or care team, so coaching and clinical work stay coordinated.
Choose your visit
The Golf Medical and Movement Evaluation is $250. Add a full hour of instruction at The Forge for $475 total, or request a proposal for a tailored half day Private Performance Experience. You can also keep working with your own coach. Compare evaluation options ↗