Want more distance in your golf game?

Are you out-driven by your buddies? Can't get over that water hazard on hole 11? I'm here to help you conquer any distance related golf challenges you may have in your game.

There are a few keys to gaining more distance on your shots, and there are some tricks for each of those keys that I will share with you.

Key #1: Clubhead Speed

Yes, it is easier said then done, but it can be done if you focus your attention in the right direction.

Each MPH you gain in clubhead speed equals about 2.3 extra yards on your driver.

First, you must understand that gaining clubhead speed means swinging FASTER NOT HARDER. The difference is in how your body works in the swing. When someone tries to swing harder, they usually get much more upper body involved and throw off the swing plane and timing at impact. The key is to swing your arms faster from the top of the backswing through the ball. Your arms and clubhead give you the leverage you need to create speed in the clubhead and send your ball for a ride.

Turn your front foot out just a little bit at address. This will keep your body rotating through the shot  better so that your arms can continue to swing faster through the ball.

Let your back leg straighten (a little). Never lock your back leg, but letting it straighten up just a bit will help you make a larger shoulder turn which will produce more speed.

RELAX. Tension in your body, arms and hands only slows down your golf swing, so loosen up and let your body work as it is designed so the club can move faster and give you more distance.

My favorite gadget for gaining yardage is the swing fan. This builds all the correct muscles you need to swing the club faster and gain distance. Long drive competitors use the swing fan an average of 45 minutes a day to develop and keep their clubhead speed.


Key #2: Centerness Of Contact

It is estimated that for each 1/4" you hit away from the sweet spot you will lose 7% of your distance. So, for a 150 yard shot hit 1/4" off center your ball will only travel 140 yards. That will leave you a 30 foot putt (assuming your are online).

The quickest way to lose distance is to mishit the center of the clubface. Golf clubs are being designed more and more to accommodate off center hits, but there is no substitute for a square impact.

The best way to ensure solid contact is to put tees in the ground on either side of your clubhead at address. Hit the ball normally without hitting the tees and you will be much closer to hitting the sweet spot of your club.

Another good way is to buy impact tape and stick it to the clubface during practice sessions. This will give you great and immediate feedback of where you are striking your shots.

Use these keys and tips to gain some much needed yardage on all your clubs, and you will be outdriving your buddies and sailing past water hazards in no time!

Good Luck!