Increasing driver distance can be a major goal for many amateur golfers. However, achieving this goal requires more than just swinging faster – it involves developing proper fundamentals and sequencing to maximize club speed. Top 100 Teacher Mark Durland shares some common flaws that may be costing golfers distance off the tee, along with solutions to help them hit it longer. One key aspect he emphasizes is the importance of center-face contact, as hitting off the heel or toe of the clubface can result in a significant loss of yardage. Using foot spray on the clubface can provide instant feedback on contact points, helping golfers make adjustments to find the center consistently. Durland also recommends adjusting tee height based on contact points to optimize driver performance.
Creating a proper coil in the backswing is another factor that can impact driver distance. Durland notes that many golfers only swing with their arms and shoulders, neglecting the engagement of other key body parts like the core, torso, and legs. By teaching golfers how to generate a proper coil in their backswing, Durland helps them utilize their entire body to generate power and increase clubhead speed. This can result in significant gains in distance off the tee, with every mile per hour increase in clubhead speed translating to about 2.6 yards of added distance. By improving their coil, golfers can see a substantial improvement in driver performance and overall distance.
In addition to focusing on center-face contact and creating a proper coil, addressing issues such as collapsing in the backswing can also help golfers maximize their driver distance. Collapsing in the backswing, where the elbows fold and hands move too close to the head, can lead to casting or throwing the club from the top of the swing. Durland provides three trail arm checkpoints to ensure proper positioning at the top of the backswing, emphasizing the importance of maintaining speed past impact rather than before. By addressing these swing flaws and implementing Durland’s recommendations, golfers can improve their power and distance off the tee, ultimately enhancing their overall performance on the course.
One effective way to work on improving driver distance is by using training tools like TheStack Swing Speed Trainer. This hardware and app bundle offers a comprehensive training program designed to help golfers increase their swing speed and optimize their performance with the driver. The Stack Trainer includes milled stack weights that enable various weight combinations to suit individual training needs. The accompanying app provides dynamic speed training formulated by Dr. Sasho MacKenzie, along with guided workout timers, custom speed metrics, and hands-free data entry using voice technology. By incorporating tools like TheStack Swing Speed Trainer into their practice routines, golfers can work on enhancing their swing speed and ultimately achieve greater distance with their driver.
Ultimately, improving driver distance requires a combination of technical adjustments, proper fundamentals, and targeted training to optimize performance. By addressing common issues such as center-face contact, creating a proper coil in the backswing, and avoiding collapsing in the swing, golfers can take significant steps towards hitting the ball farther off the tee. Working with a knowledgeable instructor like Mark Durland can provide valuable insights and guidance on how to improve driver distance through tailored instruction and feedback. By implementing these tips and utilizing training tools like TheStack Swing Speed Trainer, golfers can enhance their skills, increase their clubhead speed, and ultimately achieve greater distance with their driver, leading to improved performance on the golf course.
