Top Golf Tips on Driving the Ball

Top Golf Tips on Driving the Ball
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Find the Right Height

In many cases, tee height contributes to a problem drive. A ball that misses the sweet spot by even by 1/2-inch can cause a loss of up to 10 yards on the drive. Ideally, the ball should be teed high enough so that 1/2 of the ball is above the topline of the club head. This will not only help you to find the sweet spot every time, but it will help to ensure a proper angle so that the club meets the ball on the ascent. Tee up your ball and then hold your driver parallel to it. Place a ruler level on the crown of the club and see if you have the ball teed up properly. With enough practice, teeing the ball properly will become second nature.

Exploit Your Strong Arm

Whether you are right or left-handed, the bulk of the power in your drive normally comes from your stronger, dominant arm. Try strengthening your swing by using just that one arm. Spend a little time each day practicing your drive using only your dominant arm with your other arm behind your back, and you should see plenty of improvement in your drive in no time.

Slow It Down

Many beginners make the mistake of rushing through their swing, often causing over-the-top drives. One of the simplest and yet most critical golf tips on driving is to slow down your swing. Start your backswing and when the club reaches the apex of the swing, make a conscious effort to finish your swing calm and slow.

Practice the Proper Stance

To make sure your driver makes the proper contact with the ball enabling a longer drive, you need to find the right stance. You should

create a solid base that lends balance and stability. Start with a stance that is slightly wider than the width of your shoulders. In other words, the inside of your feet should be just outside of your shoulders. A stance that is too narrow can cost you distance and power since your swing will not be loose and will lack balance.

Position your feet so that the ball is aligned with the instep of the left foot if you are right-handed when using a driver. A general rule of thumb is the clubs that give the least loft should be positioned closer to the inside of the left foot, moving closer to the center of your stance as the club you use provides greater loft.

Photo courtesy of danperry.com via Flickr

Get the Right Grip

A strong grip leads to long shot. A grip where the hands rotate to the left is considered a weak grip, while hands rotated more to the right is called a strong grip. A weak grip adds more loft to the ball resulting in a loss of distance. For less loft and more distance, make sure that your hands are rotated to the right when you make your grip. Those few extra yards could make all the difference.

References

GolfIQ: Increase Your Golf Distance

Golf Tips: Hit It Big

Golf.com: Driving Tips For You