The driver is one of the most important clubs in your bag. You will use the driver to tee off on most par-4 and par-5 holes. The ability to hit for distance and accuracy cannot be overstated on these holes and hitting your driver well also gives you psychological peace. When you hit a good shot with your driver on the opening hole, you set a great tone for your round and your confidence level improves. As a result, it's vital to use great mechanics when swinging your driver.
Function
The driver is the longest and heaviest club in your golf bag. It has the biggest sweet spot and can give you more distance than any club in your bag. If you swing it properly, you can be set up to have a great hole. However, a poor swing with the driver can leave your shot 50 yards or more off course. It is vital to have the proper set-up when your prepare to hit with the driver. It begins with the setup. Make sure your left shoulder--for a right-handed golfer--is facing the target. Your left foot needs to be under your left shoulder. Your feet should be slightly more than shoulder-width apart and the ball should be about two ball widths closer to your front foot than your back foot.
Features
It's important to use your entire body when swinging your driver. It's not just a function of powering the ball with your shoulder and arms. You must start your swing by turning your hips to the rear of the tee box and allowing your arms and shoulders to follow. Make sure you get your hands and shoulder completely turned so you are in the launch position at the top of your backswing. Roll your hips back to and through the ball and allow your hands to follow. Keep your head down as you make contact with the ball and make sure your hands get up to shoulder height before you finish your swing.
Misconceptions
Good golfers know that the driver has more than enough size and power to launch a shot with distance down the fairway. The problem may people have with the driver is that they try to dial up a little "extra" and swing the club with more velocity. This is a mistake because it will upset your timing. Instead of getting more club head speed at impact you actually get less when you try to swing harder because all aspects of your swing are not in concert.
Considerations
Your grip strength is one of the most important aspects when swinging with the driver. It is a bigger and heavier club but do not choke the club with all your strength. This will keep you from getting the full hip and shoulder turn and gaining maximum power. Grip the club as if you are holding a live bird in your hands. You don't want to crush the bird and you don't want to let go of it either. Grip the club with that pressure and you will be able to get maximum distance.
Benefits
You will develop a level of confidence in your overall golf game when you can hit your driver consistently. Instead of being fearful off the tee, you will know you can hit your drive with distance and accuracy and that will give you a chance to have a successful round. When you are competing with others, your success with the driver may put pressure on your opponents who may not be able to match your prowess with the driver.
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