Golf can be a maddening sport, as even the best amateurs and professionals hit slumps during which they just can't drive the ball straight and long. Still, golfers flock to courses. A 2009 survey conducted by the National Golf Foundation found that the average American golfer plays 46 rounds of gold and spends more than $3,000 on the sport annually. And you, like many avid golfers, may think that the perfect driving game is just a few rounds away. By using a few proven methods, you can improve your ability to drive the ball straight and long.
Mid-Swing Pause
Many golfers make the mistake of swinging too fast in an effort to hit the ball as hard as possible. While swing speed is important, there's a certain pace and consistency that the best golfers share. To work on pacing yourself, practice by holding your swing for a few seconds the peak of your backswing. This will help ingrain the habit of a steady, non-jerky swing.
Follow Through
Some golfers make the mistake of slowing their swings upon contact with the ball. Just like a swing in baseball or a jumpshot in basketball, a powerful follow-through is important in driving a golf ball. Place a tee on the ground between 6 and 10 inches the ground in front of the ball you're hitting, and focus on not only hitting the ball, but also the tee in front of it.
Posture
Always remain mindful of having the proper posture. Some golfers have tendency to hunch over the ball while driving, whether because they have poor general posture or are trying to hit the ball as hard as possible. A fundamental golf swing should feature a straight spine. Go to the driving range and hit a bucket of balls, focusing on keeping your back straight and
Practice
There's an oft-used phrase in golf that states you "drive for show and putt for dough." While it's true that putting is an essential ability in playing winning golf, your game will never reach its potential without great driving. According to the 2009 study, the average golfer spend 71 minutes a week on practice -- and only 13 of them using the driver.
It's easy to find a driving range in most areas. Practice doesn't make perfect in golf -- because perfection is impossible -- but it will make you better.
Member Comments