By Malcolm Young, PGA Specialist Professional at The Track, Meydan Golf
Few would argue the driver is one of the most important clubs in the bag. When it all goes well itís fun to hit, it feels great and itís the envy of your playing partners. However, the reality is often the very opposite, leading to frustration with the longest club in the bag.
The faults with the driver usually start from the set up position causing issues within the swing motion to find a consistent delivery of the clubface required to master the driver. Focusing on the set up process offers a very clear way for golfers to practice and understand the positions that lead to better driving skills.
1) Routine sets the rhythm for the swing
When you watch the best drivers of the ball you’ll notice they rarely step off the same rhythm as they approach the ball to set up and any hint of a distraction they simply break off the routine and start again from the beginning once they re-focus.
Continually work on your personal routine and timing – it’s essential for a consistent set-up.
2) Upper segment before lower segment
In the set up process a very common factor that causes poor driving skills is the connection or lack of between upper and lower body segments. The majority of amateur golfers often step into the ball predominantly with the lower body segment leading to poor posture.
Once you aim the clubface take care of the upper body segment with the correct spine angle allowing the arms to hang naturally and shoulders to align, assisting the turning motion in the backswing.
3) Lead leg before trail leg
The lower body segment is such an important focus in the set up, connecting the body to the ground to establish ground force to transfer to the ball through the club.
This is often dismissed by golfers as their focus drifts to the swing motion before the body is set, creating poor balance points and body angles.
With the upper segment positioned the lead leg establishes the ideal ball position inside the lead heel while maintaining pressure on the trail leg ready to move into position
Moving the trail leg back into position establishes not only the wider stance needed for the driver but establishes the ideal balance point while also setting an appropriate spine tilt improving the ability to make a better takeaway and powerful swing.
With a clear set up framework and focus, the takeaway motion should then have a clear trigger and timeframe that allows more consistency in your driving. Continually working on these steps will ensure you are set up for success to master the driver.
To book your lesson with Malcolm or one of the other talented PGA Professionals at The Track, Meydan Golf visit meydangolf.com, call +971 4 381 3733 or email: [email protected]
