Generating extra distance is something most golfers obsess about. Increasing clubhead speed will deliver additional yardage however, there is no point in going at the golf ball ‘harder’ if when doing so your swing sequence breaks down. Ninety-nine times out of a hundred ‘accuracy’ will outscore distance.
Increasing swing speed takes time – to do so you will need to strengthen your arms, legs and core as well as ensuring that you stay flexible. Be sure to continue hitting practice balls in between the strengthening of your muscles – this will help you to maintain your swing sequence which is critical to retaining accuracy.
Remember that a successful golf shot is one that hits the target (fairway or green)
I’m not suggesting that increasing the distances that you hit each club won’t help – we’d all fancy our chances of hitting it closer to the flag with an 8 iron rather than a 6 iron.
A question many pupils ask me is “Am I swinging too fast?”
A good gauge on whether you are swinging too fast will be if you are able to remain balanced throughout the entire golf swing.
There can be numerous reasons as to why amateur golfers will end up swinging the club too fast but pride is often the culprit.
- It could be because your partner has just cranked a long drive and you are trying to outdrive them.
- It could be that you are playing well and are feeling under pressure to keep your score going.
- You have selected a club that you know requires your ‘Sunday best’ strike to get there and as a result you end up forcing it.
To maintain your normal tempo, try this tip…
Count ‘1’ when you start your swing, ‘2’ at the top of your backswing, ‘3’ at impact, and ‘4’ at a balanced finish position.
This simple tip can help you maintain your tempo and prevent you from overthinking.
Tom Long – Golf Professional
