Coaches Corner: A Pro-Level Tip for Swing Distance

Everyone wants to hit the ball farther. No matter the skill level, no matter the age or gender of the player, distance is important. The longer the player hits the ball, the potential for lower scores goes up. So the bottom line is…distance is important!

There is a saying that I have been taught my whole golfing career; “swing faster, not harder.” What I would like to talk to you about in this Coaches Corner is how to properly create more speed, and to swing faster, not harder.

This is a tasty drill, literally. All you need is a bag of your favorite potato chips, your driver and some range balls. Take out a chip and put it between your back teeth. I know it is tempting, but don’t crunch down yet!

Tee up a ball and swing as fast as you can, making sure that you do not chomp down on that chip yet. If you find that you bit down on the chip, you've swung too hard. If the chip is still intact, you are on your way to swinging faster!

If you can swing fast without biting down, wait until the ball lands, then reward yourself with that potato chip. You can now enjoy the tastiest drill that can improve your distance. 

 

The Coaches Corner is brought to you by our Oaks Course Golf Pro, Brad Patton. Brad is the Lead Staff Instructor and PGA Assistant Golf Professional. He has real a passion for golf and instruction, and has been part of the Oaks Course team for several years.