There’s an intrinsic joy in golf that transcends mere scores or leaderboards. It’s found in those rare moments of perfect harmony, where the swing feels just right, and the ball soars majestically through the sky, covering that extra bit of distance.
The reality for most amateur golfers though is that you will not hit the ball clean every time, or will even hit a duff one in every 8 shots and we are here to help with that right now.
For many golf enthusiasts, this quest for longer drives is not just about the thrill; it’s about efficiency, about setting yourself up for success with each subsequent shot. Picture this: You’ve managed to drive your ball further down the fairway, suddenly that daunting par 5 becomes a reachable par 4, potentially transforming tricky bogeys into exciting birdies. It’s evident that mastering the ability to hit your golf ball further can significantly impact your game.
Hit Your Golf Ball Further For Bragging Rights!
Hitting your drive, iron or rescue club a bit further also gives you fantastic bragging rights when playing with your mates, and let’s not forget how important that feeling is right.
But what does it take to achieve such a feat? Is it just raw power, high-end equipment, or is there more to it? Having navigated the complex world of golf, improving my handicap from over 30 to an ok, but still apparently national UK average, handicap of 14.9 in just four years, I’ve tasted the challenges and joys of this journey. Now as a regular in pro-am competitions, the insights and experiences I’ve gained are not just from my personal endeavours but also from numerous interactions with golf professionals.
Over the years I have also had countless lessons from a variety of different golf coaches and professionals on how to get more distance with my drives and shots in general. If there is a training tip or method out there, I will have tried it.
The credibility of this advice doesn’t come merely from numbers or achievements but from my genuine passion for the game and an incessant quest for improvement. Together, let’s explore the intricate dance of technique, equipment, and fitness that allows one to hit the golf ball further.
Using Proper Grip and Stance to hit your golf drives further
Mastering golf starts with mastering the basics, and at its core lies the art of the grip and stance. The grip, often overlooked, is your direct connection to the club, influencing control, swing path, and shot direction. Ensuring you have a strong yet supple grip is the first step towards consistently powerful shots.
Your stance is the foundation of your swing. A proper stance ensures balance, stability, and the potential for power generation. Feet shoulder-width apart, a slight bend in the knees, and an aligned clubface not only enhance power but improve shot accuracy. I find the best way to describe the perfect stance that works for me is to imagine the start of a gym squat position.
These foundational elements, though basic, require regular attention and refinement. Even seasoned golfers occasionally revisit their grip and stance to make subtle adjustments, proving their undying significance in the game.
Engage the Big Muscles for a longer golf shot
A common misconception in golf is the overemphasis on arm strength. The real powerhouses in golf are the legs, back, and core. When these muscles work in harmony, they generate a force that can significantly amplify your swing speed and shot distance.
Developing awareness of these muscles, especially during the swing, can be transformative. Instead of swinging with just the arms, visualise a sequence where the power originates from your legs, is channelled through your core, and then expressed through your arms and club.
Regular drills focusing on activating and strengthening these primary muscles can do wonders. Not only do they enhance power, but they also offer stability and reduce the risk of injuries. If there is one gym exercise that can help with this, it would be Russian Twists. These strengthen your core and also help to increase overall flexibility. Another gym tip that will help you hit it further on the golf course would be to do “wood cutters” exercises.
Have the Confidence to Increase Your Swing Speed
Swing speed is undeniably a vital factor in achieving longer drives. This doesn’t mean erratic or uncontrolled swings but honing a rhythm that combines power with precision. Increasing flexibility through stretches or yoga can allow for a more comprehensive backswing, while muscle conditioning can enhance force application.
However, an increase in speed shouldn’t come at the cost of technique. The perfect swing is a blend of speed, balance, and direction. Incorporating exercises that focus on both strength and flexibility can aid in developing a swing that’s both fast and controlled.
Remember, consistency is key. Rather than occasional bursts of high-speed swings, aim for a consistent tempo that gradually increases in speed, ensuring you maintain control and accuracy.
If you want a silly tip that really works for me, go for the “Strawberry Mousse” approach to your driving golf swing. Saw the words”Strawberry” slowly as you bring your club back and then whip it through quicker than normal whilst saying the word “mousse”. Odd, I know, but it works.
Having the confidence to really whip the club through can make a huge difference.
Strike the Ball with an Upward Motion
The angle at which you strike the ball can profoundly influence its trajectory and distance. Contrary to intuitive belief, an upward strike, particularly with drivers, is more effective in gaining those extra yards. This is because an upward motion reduces ball backspin, allowing for a longer flight.
Achieving this requires attention to your ball position, tee height, and swing path. Regularly practicing with conscious efforts to adjust these parameters can gradually instil this technique in your game.
Over time, with consistent practice, this upward striking technique becomes second nature. It’s a subtle yet game-changing adjustment that can greatly impact your driving distance.
The practical tip for this is to basically move the ball to the top of the front foot when tee-ing off. Similar to the faster whip through, you will see an immediate and clear benefit. If nothing else, your will hit less grubber shots that stay low to the ground.
Optimal Equipment Matters
In a sport where millimetres can make a difference, having the right equipment becomes paramount. With advancements in golf technology, clubs today are highly customisable, designed to cater to varying swing speeds, play styles, and objectives.
Investing time in professional club fitting can guide you towards equipment that resonates with your unique swing. It’s not just about the length of the club but factors like shaft flex, loft, and even grip type.
Regularly evaluating and updating your equipment, based on your evolving skills and needs, ensures that you are always at an advantage when on the course. Remember, even the best of techniques can be limited by unsuitable equipment.
It is worth noting that this does not mean you need to run out and buy a new driver or set of clubs every year. I have a 10 year old Ping driver that does the job perfectly. I would say that any driver, rescue or iron under 8 years old will stand you in great stead.
Play with the Right Ball
While all golf balls might look similar, their performance characteristics can differ significantly. Some balls are engineered for control, some for spin, and others for distance. Understanding and selecting a ball that aligns with your objectives can greatly enhance your game.
Regular experimentation, coupled with professional advice, can guide you to the perfect ball. As your skills evolve, so might your preference in golf balls, so it’s essential to stay updated and make changes as needed.
From personal experience, I think a large part of ball choice is psychological. I always feel like I hit a Pro V further, but the reality is that I probably hit it the same distance as all other balls. What is wrong with talking yourself into it though? Whatever gives you confidence will always work well.
Focus on Balance and Stability
The essence of a powerful golf shot lies in its stability. Achieving perfect balance ensures that the energy generated during the swing is effectively transferred to the ball. This requires a keen awareness of weight distribution and body alignment.
Practising drills that challenge and enhance your balance can be highly beneficial. Visualise a rotation around your spine, keeping it as your central axis, and ensure that this remains consistent throughout your swing.
Incorporating exercises that enhance core stability and leg strength can further reinforce balance, leading to not just longer but also more accurate shots.
I always work hard on keeping my core as still and central as possible when hitting a golf shot. Trying not to sway side to side. Importantly, just keeping your head still and over the ball and not looking up too quickly will give you an immediate improvement.
Incorporate Gym Workouts to hit the golf Ball Further
The benefits of physical fitness in golf are manifold. Core exercises like planks or Russian twists improve rotational power. Leg exercises, such as squats and lunges, offer stability and strength. Flexibility routines further refine your range of motion.
A targeted fitness regimen, focusing on golf-specific movements and strengths, can be a game-changer. Regular workouts, combined with on-course practice, ensure that your body is primed for those long drives and challenging shots.
As mentioned before, wood cutter exercises have really helped me. It gives the whole arm and core a robust work out and you will notice the difference within a few weeks, not least because your increase guns (biceps) will make your golf top pop!
Here are some more gym exercises that will help improve your golf game.
The Importance of the Follow Through to Hit the Golf Ball Further
Saving the best until last!
My last tip is probably the one thing that has really improved my game straight away. This is the follow through. No, it is not that kind of follow through!
When I strike the ball I don’t concentrate half as much on my back swing as I do the follow through. In my practice swing I really make sure that I imagine hitting the ball and then continuing the club motion through until it is right at the top of my left shoulder (I am right handed!).
I would say that I conservatively added around 20-30 yards on every shot by doing this. Even with my lob, sand and pitching wedge, I find I have extended my distance by really focussing on the follow through. I would be as brave as to say that I have added maybe an extra 40 yards with my driver, rescue and lower irons as well, by really focussing on this technique.
In the grand tapestry of golf, distance is but one thread, albeit a crucial one. Through technique, equipment, and fitness, one can master this aspect, setting the stage for a well-rounded and fulfilling golfing experience. With every added yard, you’re not just closer to the pin but also to the heart and soul of this timeless sport.
