3 Keys: Release for distance

A good release starts with the grip

By Annika Sorenstam
Photo By Stephen Szurlej January 2008

1. A good release starts with the grip. Set the club in the fingers of your left hand, with your thumb pad over the top of the handle. With your right hand, again get the club down in the creases of your fingers. This will help you hinge the club up going back and hold that wrist angle longer in the downswing for a late burst of speed.

2. I recently found I was holding the club too tightly with my right hand, trying to hit the ball instead of releasing through. Here's a drill I used to relax my right hand: Grip the club normally, then move your right index finger on top of the grip. Hit some balls like this. You'll see it takes the "pinch pressure" out of your right hand.

3. People talk about how I turn my head to the target before impact. That's the release of my body. But the big issue for amateurs is getting the arms and wrists to work correctly through impact. Release the club to the target, and feel your left elbow pointing to the ground (right). Let your wrists recock the club to a full finish.

Annika Sorenstam writes instruction articles only for Golf Digest Publications. View more tips from Annika.

Golf Digest

SUBSCRIBE TO GOLF DIGEST

& save 68% off the cover price!

12 issues for $14.97
*Plus applicable sales taxNon-USA - Click Here
 
May 17, 2008

lesson tees

David Leadbetter
David Leadbetter
How to create coil for power
Jim McLean
Jim McLean
Brush up on your swing with this mental image
Johnny Miller
How to handle firm, super-fast greens
Jim Flick
Jim Flick
Out of the sand with one easy move
Tom Watson
Try Snead's secret to making consistent contact

Swing Sequences

Swing Sequences
View full-motion swing sequences some of the world's best players including Els, Mickelson, Garcia and more!
PGA Free Lesson Month

Analyze Your Game

Want help with your game? Shot By Shot offers a free trial of its game analysis.
MORE INFO

Tip of the Day

I feel tall and athletic in my posture, with my chin up away from my chest. Going back, my weight … More

Rule of the Day

A man and a woman are playing in a mixed league, where the format is match play. One hole on … More

Instructor Rankings

50 Greatest Teachers

Who are America's best instructors, as ranked by their peers? The names at the top are familiar to any serious student.

NEWSLETTERS

Golf Digest's newsletter
Golf World's newsletter

Golf Digest Subscribe >

Golf World

Visit Subscribe

Golf for Women

Visit Subscribe
Conde Nast Store
Subscribe

Best Places to Play — Course Finder

Advertiser Events & Promotions

This poll does not exist.