ADDING SPEED

Speed is key to improving your performance on the golf course. You create speed and power through three forces:

Often referred to as ground forces. Have you ever considered that you can tap into the forces of gravity and the ground itself to create power? That is especially important in the transition from backswing to downswing. We can usually find significant improvements in several areas of ‘ground force mechanics’ to create a big increase in speed and power along with the added stability needed for greater consistency in your ball striking.

Lateral force is the movement from back foot to front. This is most conspicuous in better golfers as they start the downswing. There is a weight transfer from the back foot to the front foot. Done correctly, without swaying, this will create power and add stability to allow for even faster rotational forces to be unlocked on the downswing.

How does your weight transfer into your lead foot in the downswing? Do you have any drills to help you learn this movement?

On the backswing, the relative rotation of the hips and pelvis, vs. the upper body and shoulders, create stored energy that can then be unlocked in the downswing.

One of the biggest differences between professionals and amateurs is the sequencing of rotational movements on the downswing, especially as it relates to the pelvis position throughout the downswing.

During the downswing , your pelvis should begin rotating toward the target first, then the thorax, then the arm, and then the club.

How much energy are you storing? What does your kinematic sequence look like?

Now do you believe that we could add at least 20 metres to most golfers’ tee shots? We didn’t discuss swing arc, grip or release. We’ve just talked about three forces that you’re applying. Put us to the challenge. How much extra speed could you generate?