How to Use the PRGR HS-130A | Swing Speed Training Guide

If you’re serious about getting better at golf, baseball, or any swing-based sport, feedback matters. The PRGR HS-130A Launch Monitor gives you that feedback instantly — tracking swing speed, ball speed, carry distance, and smash factor in real time. Lightweight, battery-powered, and easy to use, it’s one of the most practical tools for athletes who want measurable improvement.

Here’s how to set it up, use it effectively, and make sense of your numbers — even when you’re training without hitting a ball.

Setting Up the PRGR HS-130A

The PRGR HS-130A is designed for quick, no-fuss setup. Place the unit about 3 to 5 feet directly behind the ball or impact area, with the display facing toward you. It uses Doppler radar technology, so clear alignment is crucial.

Make sure the front of the device points straight down your target line, not off to the side. Small misalignments can affect accuracy. For indoor use, allow enough space between the club and the wall so the radar can read the entire swing path.

A flat, stable surface like a hitting mat or the ground behind your tee works best. Avoid placing the device on uneven grass or mats with vibrations, as this can cause reading inconsistencies.

Understanding the Modes

The PRGR HS-130A offers several modes designed for different training applications:

Golf Mode: Measures clubhead speed, ball speed, smash factor, and estimated carry distance. Ideal for practicing with or without a ball.
Baseball (Batting) Mode: Tracks bat speed and exit velocity for hitters.
Pitching Mode: Measures throwing speed.
Multi Mode: A flexible setting that detects swing or motion speed in a variety of contexts.

Switch modes using the MODE button on the front panel. For most golfers, the default Golf Mode is the one you’ll use most often.

Swing Speed Training — Even Without a Ball

One of the most powerful features of the PRGR HS-130A is its ability to measure swing speed without contact. This makes it perfect for off-season training or indoor sessions.

Simply set up as you normally would, take your swing through the air, and the PRGR will instantly display your clubhead speed. This feature allows you to work on increasing swing velocity safely, without needing to hit golf balls.

Many golfers use this mode to train with speed sticks, weighted clubs, or training aids, comparing readings over time to monitor gains. Consistent improvement in swing speed often translates directly into longer drives and more efficient energy transfer once you’re back on the course.

Tips for Accurate Readings

To get consistent, reliable data from your PRGR HS-130A, keep these guidelines in mind:

Check alignment: Always ensure the unit is pointing straight at your intended target line.
Stable surface: Avoid moving or bumping the device between swings.
Lighting and background: Indoors, make sure there’s minimal reflection behind the hitting area. Outdoors, avoid direct sunlight pointing into the radar sensor.
Repeatable setup: Keep the same distance and angle between the device and the ball each time you train.

Consistency in placement equals consistency in data — crucial for tracking progress over weeks and months.

Interpreting Your Data

The PRGR HS-130A’s display shows four key readings in Golf Mode:

Swing Speed (Club Speed): Measures how fast your clubhead is moving through impact.
Ball Speed: Shows how quickly the ball leaves the clubface.
Smash Factor: A ratio of ball speed to club speed — a measure of how efficiently you transfer energy.
Carry Distance: An estimated distance based on ball speed and launch efficiency.

For pure swing speed training, focus on the swing speed number. Try to increase it gradually without losing balance or rhythm. For hitting sessions, pay attention to smash factor — numbers close to 1.50 indicate you’re striking the ball efficiently.

Track Your Progress and Stay Motivated

The PRGR HS-130A automatically stores your most recent measurements, making it easy to compare your performance across sessions. Keep a simple log of your swing speeds over time, and aim for incremental improvement — a 2–3 mph increase can add 5–10 yards of carry distance on the course.

By using this compact launch monitor consistently, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of your mechanics, tempo, and power. Whether you’re swinging a driver, practicing indoors, or warming up before a round, the PRGR HS-130A helps you turn data into improvement.