Learn to Drive Like Anthony Kim: Mastering Explosive Power

Hey there, Daily Duffer readers! Sarah Chen here, your instruction editor, and I’m thrilled to dive into a story that truly embodies the spirit of perseverance and the power of belief. We’ve all had moments on the course where we feel like giving up, where the game just isn’t cooperating. But what if those moments stretched into years? And what if, after 12 years away and a tough return, you find your way back to the winner’s circle?

That’s the incredible story of Anthony Kim, who recently capped off an amazing comeback with a victory at LIV Golf Australia. His journey, guided by coach Matt Killen, offers us some fantastic insights into the mental game, managing expectations, and building a foundation that can withstand the ups and downs of golf. As a PGA-certified instructor with over 15 years of experience, I truly believe anyone can improve, and stories like AK’s are proof of that.

The Power of Patience: Building a Foundation

When you’ve been away from the game for a long time, or even if you’re just feeling a bit off, it’s natural to want to jump straight back to hitting those heroic shots. But Anne Kim’s return illustrates a crucial point: you have to build from the ground up. Matt Killen treated Kim’s absence like a return from injury.

“First, they’d work on a foundation. Then hit shots. Then figure out scoring. Then finally play golf.”

This phased approach is something I preach to all my students. You wouldn’t build a house starting with the roof, would you? The same goes for your golf game. Whether you’re coming back from a layoff, trying to fix a persistent slice, or just want more consistency, focusing on fundamental movements and building a solid base is key.

Why it works: By establishing a strong foundation, you create a reliable and repeatable swing. Trying to hit perfect shots with a shaky foundation often leads to compensatory movements and inconsistent results. It’s about efficiency and longevity in your swing.

Try this:

1. Drill 1: The One-Arm Feel Drill. Grab an alignment stick. Hold it in your lead hand (left for right-handers, right for left-handers) and place the other end against your lead hip. Make slow, controlled swings, focusing on keeping the stick connected to your hip. This helps you feel the rotation of your body and prevents over-swinging or relying too much on your arms. Do 10-15 reps on each side, then try it with both hands.
2. Drill 2: The Parallel Path. Take an iron and place it on the ground just outside your target line. Place a second alignment stick on the ground a few inches inside your target line, parallel to the first. Practice making small, half swings, focusing on bringing your clubhead back and through between these two lines. This helps reinforce a consistent swing plane and path, which is critical for solid contact.

Adapting, Not Just Replicating

One of the most profound lessons from AK’s return is the idea of adaptation. After 12 years, bodies change. Injuries heal, but sometimes with lasting effects. Killen recognized this beautifully:

“So it’s a fine line between trying to re-create what once was and taking what once was and adapting it to where you currently are In life or physically.”

This is critical for all golfers, regardless of age or skill level. We often get fixated on a “perfect” swing we saw on TV or a position we hit years ago. But your body today is different from your body yesterday, let alone a decade ago. Mobility, flexibility, and strength fluctuate. A great golf instructor helps you find the most efficient and powerful swing *for your body today*, not some idealized version.

Why it works: Adapting your swing to your current physical capabilities minimizes strain and injury risk while maximizing your potential for consistent power and accuracy. Trying to force an old movement pattern can lead to frustration and physical discomfort.

Here’s a drill:

1. Drill 3: The Mirror Check-Up. Stand in front of a full-length mirror (or film yourself) and make slow practice swings. Pay attention to your posture, your backswing depth, and your finish. Are you balanced? Does anything feel strained? This drill isn’t about perfect positions, but about understanding what your body can comfortably and repeatably do. If you notice limitations, consider adding some golf-specific stretches or exercises to your routine.

The Mental Edge: Show Off, Don’t Mess Up

After two tough seasons on LIV, Anthony Kim didn’t just win; he finished third in the “Promotions Event” to even get back into the league. And then he won his next event. That mental fortitude is a superpower.

“You want the guys going to show off. And he has that.”

This is a subtle but incredibly powerful distinction. Many amateur golfers, when facing pressure, focus on *not making a mistake*. They try to steer the ball, play safe, and prevent disaster. This “don’t mess up” mentality often leads to tension, hesitation, and ultimately, poor shots. The “show off” mentality, however, is about committing to the shot, trusting your swing, and trying to execute it perfectly, rather than just avoid a mistake.

Why it works: A positive, aggressive mindset frees up your body and allows your subconscious to take over. When you commit fully to a shot, your muscles are more relaxed, and your swing is more fluid and natural.

In conclusion, Anthony Kim’s journey is a powerful reminder that improvement in golf isn’t always linear. It requires patience, adaptation, and a belief in your own ability. Whether you’re returning to the game or just striving for a new personal best, remember to build a solid foundation, adapt your technique to your current physical self, and always step onto the course with the mindset to “show off,” not just avoid messing up. Your “epic swing” is within reach!