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THE POWER ISSUE
We asked the tour pros
How they hit it so far and how you can, too
Photos Courtesy of PGA and LPGA Tours
August 2008
We asked tour pros for the goods on power. First, how they crank up their clubhead speed when they need it, like on those 500-yard par 4s they play. Second, how the rest of us can get longer. In all honesty, many said amateurs should stop swinging out of their skin and just focus on making solid contact. But a few gave more insight. Here's what they said.
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What do you do differently when you need a big drive?
- BUBBA WATSON
To give it a little extra, I turn my front foot out, toward the target. That helps me get through the ball faster. I have to watch that my body and hands don't fall behind, but it definitely adds speed. When I'm playing with my buddies at home and they see that toe go out, they know I'm going at it.
- CAMILO VILLEGAS
I try to get my body more relaxed. I want to be comfortable and very loose, not only at address but everywhere. I think about my breathing, because it keeps me loose. The more relaxed you are, the more speed you get.
- BRANDT SNEDEKER
I widen my stance a little and make sure my grip pressure isn't too tight. As long as I keep the tension out, I can swing it through fast without feeling like I'm over-hitting it. I once got a tip from Mason Rudolph, who played the tour in the '60s and '70s: Swing easy and learn to live with the extra distance.
- BRETT WETTERICH
It's basically the same swing for me. I might tee the ball up a little higher, and try to make a bigger shoulder turn on the backswing. A bigger turn is the main thing for hitting it farther. Then I just try to put a little more oomph into it.
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What should amateurs do to hit it longer off the tee?
- SEAN O'HAIR
When most golfers try to hit it harder, they tense up their hands and arms and try to kill the ball. You have to take your time, especially on the backswing. It's a coiling action. Go nice and slow for the first two or three feet, get a good coil, then you can rip it.
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