The Science of Golf: Kinematics May 6, 2020 In order to measure the speed of a putting green, golf course superintendents use a device called the Stimpmeter. Adopted by the USGA in 1978, the Stimpmeter calculates green speed by relying on the principals of kinematics: position, velocity and acceleration. "Science of Golf" is produced in partnership with the United States Golf Association and Chevron. sports in this article Golf tags in this article Athlete Fan NBC News Learn Science of Golf