When hitting a driver, start from the ground up in your transition and forward swing to build a powerful motion, and learn how the left ankle rolls or lifts in the backswing and is the first thing to set in your transition to the downswing.
Once the left foot posts and your left knee braces, the hip should pivot to create extension.
Last, check your ball position to ensure you’re hitting it level or a few degrees up, which will aid your distance numbers. Just off the forward heel is ideal.
Here’s a good drill for producing a more free and powerful swing:
Start your backswing from an extended position in front of the ball to create the feel for what you’re trying to achieve. The upper body will naturally lead the backswing from here and give you a better feel for the left foot and lower body to start the downswing and produce the correct sequence and extension in your follow-through.
Simply swing smoothly back and through to a balanced finish.
When it comes to selecting the best driver for you, the correct shaft flex, loft and weight is critical. Too stiff and you lose distance; too flexible and you lose directional control.
To maximize driver distance, the loft angle should match your swing speed. If your speed tops 100 mph, go with 9.5 to 10.5 degrees of loft; if your swing speed is 80-85 mph, 12-13 degrees of loft will maximize distance; if your swing speed is slower than 80 mph, which is normal for most women, use a driver with 13-15 degrees of loft.
Glenn Deck is director of instruction at Pelican Hill Golf Club in Newport Coast.
