Add more distance to your tee shots in 2016 

It's that time of year when you start to read about all of the new equipment releases. It's impossible not to get excited for the year ahead. I've heard some golfers making the cynical comment that it's not possible to add any more yards to a driver! My retort is, "That's not a relevant argument". 

The real question you should ask yourself is, "Is it possible to add more distance to my tee shots?". And, with respect, in almost every case the answer is a resounding "Yes! Yes! And yes again". 

Technique that can be improved

Most golfers lose so much ball speed (and therefore distance) because their smash factor is consistently too low (that is, they don't strike the ball from the middle of the Club face). Many golfers actually strike the ball with a glancing blow, losing distance and adding side-spin. Too many golfers are not launching the ball high enough to get the carry the modern low-spinning golf ball can offer. 

Equipment that can be improved 

Even golfers who have bought the latest adjustable drivers are inclined to play with the loft set too low. That's indicative of a challenge many of us face. You've been seduced into a new driver off the shelf and have left 10, 20, 30 and even more yards on the table because you didn't get the technology, shaft, loft and grip to suit your swing. That's right; nearly 75% of golfers stated that they skipped the fitting process when buying a new driver. Why? 

What golf ball are you using? 

Using the correct Golf Balls is massively important. Depending on what type of player you are, you may require a ball that spins more or a ball that spins less. You also need to consider what compression of ball to use. For example if you have a relatively slow swing speed you should use a softer compression ball as it will compress against the Club face more than a higher compression ball giving you a faster ball speed coming off of the Club face. This will result in more distance. In some of our recent fittings we have added up to 20 yards by simply giving our customer the correct ball!

Your own flexibility and strength 

There are simple exercises and technique improvements that will make it possible for you to first make a better shoulder turn, and then to use the larger muscles on the way down to create faster clubhead speed. 

And yes, technology is getting smarter 

Finally, the big improvements to look out for this year is a face that responds better to ball strikes away from the centre. That isn't just about maintaining a faster CoR (coefficient of restitution) if you strike the face towards the toe or heel to maintain a faster ball speed. Look for technology that will also preserve the launch characteristics of launch angle and spin rate when you strike the ball away from the face.This does sound a little complicated but that's where we come in as your Professionals. We can recommend the correct combination of Club, shafts and ball to optimise your performance. There's no question the manufacturers are producing golf equipment that is more effective for the average golfer. It couldn't be a better time to look at your game, we are offering FREE fittings for January and February (Normally £35). 

So, if you would like to give your game an MOT for the 2016 season then contact us to book an assessment in our indoor Swing Studio (That's right you are not going to get rained on!) and together we can help you play better golf in 2016.