How to Hit the Golf Ball

How to Hit the Golf Ball
Photo Credit the golf swing pose - one of a series of instructional illustrat image by Wingnut Designs from Fotolia.com

Learning how to hit the golf ball properly is a lifetime mission for many golfers. While you may become a competent golfer in a relatively short period of time, building an excellent swing takes a long time. Hitting the ball properly is a combination of many factors, not the least of which is clubhead speed at impact, proper form, mental attitude and overall confidence. Once a golfer hits his first great shot, he often becomes addicted to this outstanding recreational activity.

Step 1

Address the ball properly. Make sure your left shoulder (for a right-handed golfer) is facing the green or the target on the fairway where you are aiming. Your left foot needs to be directly underneath your shoulder. Play the ball midway between your legs. Bend your knees slightly so you are in an athletic position.

Step 2

Grip the club correctly. Take your left hand and put it on the golf grip about 1/2 inch below the top of the club. Put the small finger of your right hand in the gap between the forefinger and middle finger of your left hand. Align both your thumbs down the shaft of the club. Hold the club firmly--at about a 6 on a scale of 1 to 10. Your grip on the club should be about the same as when you shake hands with a new business associate for the first time.

Step 3

Rotate your hips to the right as you begin your backswing. To hit the ball correctly, you will want to come forward with your weight and momentum. This is done during the backswing by getting your weight on your back leg. As your weight is transferring, bring the club back to shoulder level.

Step 4

Rotate your hips to the left side once you have your hands at shoulder level. Your hands need to follow your hips to and through the ball to hit the ball accurately and for distance. After your hips have cleared the hitting zone, bring your hands through the ball with speed and momentum.

Step 5

Follow through completely and keep your head down. Once you make contact with the ball, you will need to keep moving forward with your body weight and your hands. If you pick up your head, your swing will lose momentum and you will lose distance. Make sure your head stays down until your club reaches hip level on your follow-through.

References

Article reviewed by Chris Henning Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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