Lesson: Gaining distance

Instructor: Matt Kluck, PGA professional, Mt. Lebanon Municipal GC

Every player is always looking for ways to hit the ball farther. But to do so, you have to first make sure your clubs are fitted correctly so you get centered contact. And centered contact is determined by shaft length, flex and lie angle.

Here are a couple drills to try: Take a swing fan and take the fan to the top of your backswing. Then, swing the fan just short of impact, gathering resistance against the fan. Use your core muscles (stomach, most notably the obliques) to return the fan to the top of your swing, then repeat 20 times without stopping. Do this daily and increase the number of sets as you see fit. This drill emphasizes strength training.

Another is to set up normally to a spot and simulate impact, but do not take the club away. Once you have established your impact position, swing as fast as you can to the finish and hold your finish for 5 seconds to ensure good balance. Repeat as many times as possible. This drill emphasizes speed and balance.

Remember, do not swing harder, swing better. The same basics that give you distance will also give you direction.