The article below was written by Rachael Tibbs of National Club Golfer.
Hit the ground running faster than ever this season and increase your clubhead speed and distance by applying the science in the gym!
Here are three main scientific principles contributing to increased clubhead speeds, swing efficiency and greater shot distance.
Increase ground reaction forces
The more force you push into the ground, the more momentum and force you can generate in your golf swing. For every force applied to the ground, there is an equal and opposite reaction of force that you can transfer to your clubhead to generate more speed and distance.
Improving lower body strength and power can help you to produce more force from the ground. In the gym, this can be achieved through these simple steps:
1. Big lifts where you need to push your legs into the ground to move a heavy weight
2. Jump variations where you use the ground to achieve height
3. Explosive lifting of a weight using the ground.
Increasing the width of your swing
Creating more width in the backswing and then maintaining this width and a large arc in the downswing increases the force and duration of this force applied to the clubhead, thus contributing to greater speeds.
The ability to use the rib cage to rotate away from the target and the lats/shoulders to hold the club away from the body requires a certain amount of mobility and strength. Working on specific mobility exercises for the ribcage and shoulders can help to improve this range of movement so that you can tap into more width and greater swing speeds!
Improve separation and sequencing
Many amateur golfers struggle to initiate their golf swing with their legs and achieve the correct sequencing, which can contribute to greater clubhead speeds and distance.
Improving the ability to separate your torso and hips and drive with your legs can be improved through specific mobility, strength and transition drills in the gym.
If you’re looking to increase your clubhead speed by 10 mph this golf season, it’s not too late!
