NIU STEAM Café  

The Biomechanics of the Golf Swing 

Many golfers spend hours practicing swing mechanics without realizing their body may not physically allow the movement they’re trying to achieve. 

At this STEAM Café, NIU alumnus and athletic trainer Kody Anderson, along with certified PGA instructor Seth Terpstra, will discuss the biomechanics of the golf swing and how the body’s physical capabilities influence swing mechanics, power and consistency. 

They’ll explore: 

• How the body generates power.

• Which joints are most critical during different phases of the swing. 

• Why mobility and strength limitations create common swing compensations.

• How strength training can improve performance and reduce injury risk, at any age. 

The speakers will also lead the audience through interactive movement tests to better understand how their own bodies may be influencing their swing. 

For golfers and sports enthusiasts alike, this talk will present a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the golf swing – and how non-golf-specific physical training can create lasting swing improvement. 
 

About the Speakers 

Kody Anderson was born and raised in Peoria, Illinois. He earned his undergraduate degree in Athletic Training from Northern Illinois University in 2014, where he developed a strong foundation in applied anatomy, injury prevention and human movement science. Early in his career, he worked with student athletes at Mt. Carmel High School and Hinsdale Central High School, gaining hands-on experience in injury management and performance support. 

He later returned to Northern Illinois University to pursue his master’s degree, working closely with the university’s gymnastics and cross-country programs. During this time, he deepened his understanding of biomechanics, movement assessment, and performance development across both power-based and endurance sports. He completed his graduate degree in 2020. 

Following graduate school, Kody joined SMART Golf & Fitness, where he began as a fitness instructor and has since advanced to Director of Fitness at the Lombard, Illinois location. In his current role, he oversees performance programming, coach education, and the integration of strength and conditioning systems across the facility. 

Kody specializes in applying biomechanics and sports science principles to golf performance. He works with golfers of all ages and skill levels to improve mobility, strength, rotational power, and movement efficiency — with the goal of enhancing swing performance while reducing injury risk. His passion lies in helping golfers better understand how their bodies influence their swing, and in bridging the gap between technical instruction and physical preparation through evidence-based training. 

Seth Terpstra was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He competed collegiately at Ferris State University on a golf scholarship and graduated from the Professional Golf Management Program. During his college career, he was a tournament winner, All-Conference Team member, and qualified for two National Championship appearances. As a professional, he qualified for the 2019 National PGA Professional Championship. 

Seth began his coaching career at GOLFTEC in Denver, Colorado, and has since taught in Michigan, Florida and Illinois. He specializes in elite junior development and high-level amateur coaching, with a passion for helping players not only improve their performance but gain a deeper understanding of their game. While he has extensive experience with competitive players, he enjoys working with golfers of all skill levels. 

Register for free at: https://niu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bNwfyqNQp8P5GzI

STEAM Cafes are fun, casual gatherings where adults can eat, drink and chat with STEAM professionals about the latest scientific research. These events are free and open to the public and are made possible by NIU STEAM in partnership with the NIU Alumni Association. Learn more at go.niu.edu/STEAMcafe.STEAM Cafes are fun, casual gatherings where adults can eat, drink and chat with STEAM professionals about the latest scientific research. These events are free and open to the public and are made possible by NIU STEAM in partnership with the NIU Alumni Association. Learn more at go.niu.edu/STEAMcafe.