If you’re looking to improve your golf game and hit more fairways, Erika Larkin, a GOLF Top 100 Teacher, has some valuable tips to help you become more consistent off the tee. One of the key fundamentals she emphasizes is the importance of tee height. By teeing up your ball half a ball above the driver face, you can catch the ball on the upswing and deliver more speed at impact, resulting in longer drives and more fairways hit.
Another important factor in driving success is ball position. Larkin recommends playing the ball inside your lead heel to time your swing and maximize velocity at impact. By starting with your feet together and then taking a wide step with your trail foot, you can ensure the ball is in the proper position in line with the inside of your lead heel. This setup will help you achieve the ideal impact position for longer, straighter drives.
Before you take your swing, it’s crucial to check your shoulder position and add spine tilt. Proper shoulder alignment and spine tilt can help you hit up on the ball, generating maximum distance off the tee. By ensuring your shoulders are square and tilting your spine slightly toward the target, you can set yourself up for a successful drive.
When it comes to the actual swing, Larkin stresses the importance of using your feet to generate power and control. By pushing your lead foot into the ground as you turn back and then pushing your trail foot as you turn through, you can create a smooth and efficient swing motion. This push and turn movement will help you maintain balance and control throughout the entire swing, leading to more accurate shots.
While it may be tempting to swing harder with the driver in hand, Larkin advises against it. Maintaining a smooth swing with balance is key to not only hitting the ball far but also finding the fairway. By focusing on staying in balance and using your feet for power, you can improve your driving consistency and see better results on the course.
In addition to these tips, Larkin offers a series of ‘How to Hit Every Shot’ tutorials for more useful insights and advice on improving your golf game. By incorporating these fundamentals into your driving practice, you can enhance your skills, lower your scores, and enjoy more success on the fairways. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your game or an experienced player seeking to sharpen your skills, Erika Larkin’s tips can help you become a more consistent and effective driver of the ball.