Two factors determine greater distance for driving a golf ball. A clubface square to the target at impact keeps the ball flying straight without as much distance-robbing spin, but clubhead speed at impact is an even greater factor. You can improve your clubhead speed by learning a more efficient swing path and by improving your physical ability by becoming more flexible.
Swing Path
Instructors have taught for years that the most efficient clubhead path is to deliver the club from slightly inside the target line before the ball, square at impact and back inside the line after impact. A common fault is an "over the top" swing in which you cut across the ball from the outside to the inside. To feel the proper path, hit shots at three-quarters effort while holding a clubhead cover under your trailing arm. The drill keeps your trailing elbow tucked near your ribs on the downswing, where it belongs.
Balance
Swinging fast doesn't mean swinging too hard. Never swing so hard that you lose your balance. Improve your balance by taking your normal stance, then drop your trailing leg behind you, putting more weight on your front foot. Hit golf shots this way to feel a more balanced swing.
Tempo
Swing speed obviously should be highest at the ball, but players with faulty swings tend to swing faster at the start of the downswing than at impact. To feel the proper tempo, grab a clubhead and swing. Listen for the "whoosh" the grip makes. Practice swinging until the sound is loudest at the point of impact.
Strength
Kinesiology research reported in several strength and conditioning journals shows that athletes can increase swing speed in baseball and golf by training with equipment that is no more than 12 percent lighter or heavier than regular equipment. Swing drills with clubs that are too heavy or too light promote swing faults more than improve swing speed.
Lag
The best players in the world consistently use increased lag in the downswing, which means the clubhead lags behind the hands as long as possible before impact. The technique moves the clubhead faster through the hitting zone, like cracking the end of a whip, according to Perfect Golf Swing Review. Practice this move on the range by unhinging your wrist cock as late as possible.
Flexibility
A faster swing comes from a more flexible golfer. Include stretching drills (see References section) in your workout routine to help you turn better back and through the swing, and to be able to maintain your spine angle in the backswing and downswing. Greater flexibility helps with balance as well.
References
- Golf Digest: Get to the Core of Your Swing: World's Greatest Stretch
- MyTPI.com: Overload and Over-Speed Training in Baseball and Golf (requires free registration)
- MyTPI.com: Need Speed? Resistance Training and Stretching Can Add Clubhead Speed (requires free registration)
- Golf Digest: Boost Your Swing Speed
- Perfect Golf Swing Review: How to Maximize Lag and Avoid Casting
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