3balls Golf
Golf is a game of technical mastery — it’s not just a matter of whacking a ball with a stick and walking around until you find it (although it is for some!). Drivers are one of the most expensive clubs in anyone’s bag, and it’s one of the clubs that can make the most difference to your game. Properly swinging a driver is a skill anyone can master with enough practice, provided you’ve got good form. Although it’s a little harder to tell you how to swing than to show you, we’re here with some pointers to improve the time you spend wielding your driver.
The Setup
Setting up your shot and getting your body into the right position before you ever take the first swing is the most important part of driving the ball as far as possible. Without the right stance, you’re never going to swing your club properly, so take your time and get it right.
When you stand up at the tee, use your normal stance, but spread your feet an additional six inches apart. This provides a wider base from which to swing, allowing you to really put some power behind your swing without having to worry about losing your balance. Keep your head just behind the ball, with your left heel opposite the ball if you’re right handed. Grip your club just above the crown of the driver with your right shoulder lower than your left. More than half your weight should be positioned over your back leg.
The Backswing
Your backswing is a time to build up the energy you’re going to release when you attack your ball. Relax as you pull your club back in a wide arc, slowly bringing it up and turning your right shoulder until it’s behind the ball. Don’t get nervous and lock up when you get to the top of your arc; stay loose and relaxed before you move into your swing.
That Magic Moment: The Downswing
As you bring your club down, keep your right shoulder back to allow your club to drop inside as you move it down. Keep your back to the ball as long as possible to help avoid slicing. As the club swings downward, turn your body with it, all the way through and beyond contact with the ball. A tendency to turn too shallowly or stop entirely at the moment of impact can cause your club face to twist closed, sending your ball off with a less than straight flight path.
