I ranked 5th in driving distance in the 1989 PGA Tour.
I competed against top distance drivers, including John Daly and Davis Love III. Spectators constantly asked us why we did not swing harder. My default reply? “I just don’t need to.” MLB player (and excellent golfer) Mark McGwire would often say that most of his home runs resulted when he was simply trying to hit it “solid.”
Why don’t you need to swing harder, you ask?
The sequence starts of the downswing starts from the ground up. Every muscle from the toes to the nose contributes to the power to the swing. The movement of the downswing is similar to a baseball swing or a tennis forehand. Amazingly, a 250-pound golfer can be easily out-driven by a 125-pound player. And a 70-year-old player can easily defeat a 20-year-old athlete with a lack of technique.
Many golfers make the mistake of initiating the downswing with their hands, arms, and shoulders.
They should be using their feet, knees and hips to start. But proper footwork leads to the knees, thighs and hips leading the downswing and the arms following and falling into position. This sequence of movement leads to more power, better accuracy and consistency. When executed properly, the swing is powerful and the sensations are flowing, fluid and effortless. It truly is amazing!
Want to see an effortless downswing in action?
Come see us out on the green at Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy!
By Doug Weaver, Director of Instruction, Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy
Carolina’s PGA Teacher of the Year, Doug Weaver is the Director of Instruction at the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy. He conducts “Where Does the Power Come From?” a free interactive clinic and demonstration every Monday from 4-5 p.m. at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course. Volunteer for a free lesson and some will win prizes! Call (866) 455-6890 or go to www.palmettodunes.com for more information.