Vertical force is a crucial component in generating power and distance in a golf swing. Traditional golf tips such as “keep your eye on the ball” or “keep your head still” may provide some benefits, but they can also hinder natural athleticism and result in a robotic swing lacking rhythm. To improve distance and speed in your swing, it is essential to incorporate vertical force effectively. Pros generate power and distance by using their feet, and you can do the same by following a simple mantra: “Up, Down, Up.”
To incorporate vertical force into your golf swing, start by marking the level of your belt in the mirror with a piece of tape or a dry-erase marker. When swinging back, aim to wind up in a way that makes you slightly taller at the top of your swing compared to your address position. Ensure there is still a little flex in your knees and avoid fully straightening your legs. In the transition, drop down into a powerful squatty position before making a motion to hit the ball. Do not drop down and hit all in the same motion.
After transitioning into a squatty position, bounce up from that position into a tall finish position. Avoid the common advice of trying to “keep your head down” or “keep your eye on the ball” for too long after impact. By incorporating this “Up, Down, Up” mantra into your pre-shot routine, you can effectively utilize vertical force in your swing and experience longer shots as a result. Take this mantra with you to the driving range to practice and see the difference it can make for your game on the course.
One tool that can help improve your golf game and practice your swing is the Rukket Mat Attack Tri-Turf portable golf mat. This mat features 16mm fairway turf, 35mm rough turf, 35mm tee turf, and a 2mm rubber base, providing a realistic surface for practice. The ball sits at an ideal height on this mat, allowing you to use your full swing without the need to choke down on the club. With this portable golf mat, you can work on incorporating vertical force into your swing and improving your overall performance on the course.
