In golf, what does the term 'impact' refer to?

In golf, the term 'impact' specifically refers to the moment when the clubface makes contact with the ball. This is a critical point in the golf swing, as it directly affects the direction, distance, and overall trajectory of the ball. At impact, the position of the player’s body, the angle of the clubface, and the speed of the swing all converge to create the outcome of the shot. Proper impact technique is essential for successful ball striking and is often a focus of training and improvement for golfers.

While the speed of the swing is important for generating distance and the follow-through motion is crucial for achieving a smooth finish, these elements occur before and after the actual impact, which is the defining moment in the hitting process. Similarly, the stance prior to hitting the ball sets the stage for a successful swing but does not describe the moment of contact itself. Therefore, defining 'impact' as the point of contact with the ball accurately captures its significance in the game of golf.