The driver, golf’s most popular club is also the golfer’s most frustrating club
The driver, golf’s most popular club is also the golfer’s most frustrating club.
The question is, why is this club so difficult to master? The combination of length of the shaft and the loft of the face makes if difficult to square the face at impact. Note: With an iron, you’re making contact at the base of the ball, producing more of an under spin, whereas with the driver you’re hitting the ball on the side, producing more sidespin.
The most common fault we see is the dreaded slice. The common mistake we see is a player’s grip is too tight and their body is outracing the club head, preventing them from squaring or releasing the club face at impact.
Remember, the driver is the lightest and longest club in the bag, so it needs more time to return to impact.
If you’re having difficulty squaring the driver, try this drill:
(For the right-handed golfer) With the ball teed up, take your normal stance. Place your right foot 6 inches back behind your left. Align your shoulders parallel with your feet, so the shoulders, hips, knees and feet are pointed slightly to the right of the target. With light grip pressure, keeping both feet on the ground and your sternum pointed slightly to the right of the ball, make some slow swings. Note: The angle of the shaft should be coming more from the inside on a shallower path. The drill is designed to keep the body from becoming overactive while allowing the weight of the club head to release through impact.
Once you notice the ball flight working from right to left, you’ll know you’re making proper release. Gradually move the right foot back to parallel with the left, making full swings. If you’re still struggling with the driver try hitting some three woods with the same drill.
