Learning how to hit a golf ball properly is a journey. When golfers are new to the game, they can often find it overwhelming. This is especially true when they play with more experienced players, who tend to hit the ball consistently. What the new golfer doesn't know is that the experienced golfer may have taken years to learn to hit the ball well. Instruction can play a big role in learning the golf swing, but the golfer still has to put those lessons to use and swing the club with precision and purpose.
The Address
This is one of the most important aspects to swinging the club well. The golfer has to feel comfortable when she walks up to the ball on the tee or in the fairway. She should play the ball midway between her two feet, which should be shoulder-width apart. When swinging a long club like a driver, play it one ball length closer to your front foot. Your knees should be bent in an athletic position, and you should be about two feet away from the ball.
The Grip
Take the club in your right hand (right-handed golfer) and hold it about six or seven inches down the shaft. Wrap the fingers of your left hand around the club, and make sure the forefinger of your left hand is touching the small finger of your right hand. Take that small finger and put in the gap between your left forefinger and middle finger. Have both of your thumbs extend down the shaft of the club. Make sure that there is about 1/4 inch of daylight between the top of the grip and your hands.
Backswing
This is how you start your swing. While you may think you have to concentrate on moving your hands, your first move is actually with your hips. Roll them toward the right, because you want your weight to be on your right side. Your hands will follow as you get your hips in the correct position. Your hands should be at shoulder height, and your left arm should be straight.
Downswing
Once again, begin this move with your hips. On the backswing you rolled your hips to the right. Now unfurl them in the opposite direction. As your hips turn to the left, all of your concentration should be on the rear and center portion of the golf ball. Keeping your left arm straight, drive your hands to and through the ball. As you make impact with the ball, snap your right wrist to get extra distance and keep the ball flying straight.
Follow-through
To get maximum distance and accuracy on your shot, you must follow through. The natural inclination of most golfers is to pick up their heads after contact to see where the ball is going. Don't give in to this impulse. To finish your shot effectively, your hands should be at the level of your front shoulder when you are done hitting the ball.
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