by David Ireland

Created on: December 12, 2007

Golf can be such a torturing game and it doesn't help when everyone seems to be hitting the ball so much further. If you are a shortish hitter, here are some tips that will lead to hitting the ball FURTHER. It will always help to video your swing and to visit your golf professional for extra assistance if you have the time. Read whatever you can but don't get confused by too much conflicting advice. The following tips are a collection that should prove to be most helpful:

1 Rotate the shoulders. This requires months of training. Many golfers think that they are doing this when they are really swaying their shoulders laterally. When you start to get it right, it feels as thought the club head is too far behind you. When beginning the downswing be careful not to cross the club over at the top. It is a natural thing to do because the correct position feels so different.

2 Keep the hands quite loose. This will allow the wrists to cock correctly during the back-swing and roll naturally through impact. Do not try to roll the wrists as this will often cause a hook. Never grip the club hard as the muscle tension will stop you from releasing properly at impact.

3 Lean on the club just a little. By this I mean press the hands forward slightly at the address as this tends to stop the club head beating the hands to the ball which causes the high, soft, shot.

4 Transfer the weight off the back foot. Try over doing this and you will feel yourself losing balance and falling forward. A small adjustment will see you transferring your weight calmly.

5 Swing SMOOTHLY! No part of the swing should be rushed. No fast back-swings. The change of direction at the top will always lead to disaster. Don't try to hit the ball ... think SWING.

6 When in any doubt, take an extra club and swing easier.

7 ALWAYS consider line before length. Your swing confidence will improve dramatically if you start hitting the ball in the most appropriate direction.

8 Work on your fitness. If your muscles are tight or if you tire easily, your ability to hit long shots is the first to suffer.

9 If you haven't purchased new clubs in the past five years, consider it. Technology has a big influence. Always use the best ball that you can afford. Do not play with rocks. For us mugs a semi soft cover is best.

I do hope this helps. Have you read a joke book Golf According to flapgum from amazon just for a laugh. We all know how it feels to be beaten up by this dreaded game.

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