Getting real power in a golf swing can be an absolute pain for most golfers. At some stage, every beginner asks themselves, Is true power generated through technique, strength or something more? Every golfer wants more power, more distance, more consistency. Here are three ways to generate more power off the tee you have only dreamed of.
How to generate power off the tee
Spinal Rotation
Every time you swing the golf club, you rotate around your spine. So, what does this have to do with power? Power is generated every time you stabilize your hips to make a full backswing with spinal rotation.
Most golfers have heard of the X factor. This, of course, refers to the differential between the movement in your hips and your spine. Increase your spinal rotation and a new sense of power will be released.
Core Based Exercises
Your body’s “core”, the area around your trunk and pelvis, is where your centre of gravity is located. When you have good core stability, the muscles in your pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen work in harmony. They provide support to your spine.
The core is the power zone. It is where all movement begins. A well-developed core allows for improved force output, increased neuromuscular efficiency, and decreased incidence of overuse injuries. A weak core can make you susceptible to poor posture and injury.
Plyometrics
Plyometrics are any exercise where the muscle is contracted eccentrically then immediately, concentrically. Put simply, the muscle is stretched (i.e. loaded) before it is contracted. A good example is medicine ball horizontal twists and standing golf swings.
According to a recent study published in the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) journal, amateur golfers significantly increased their driving distances after just eight weeks of strength training while incorporating plyometrics. Mean driving distance increased 4.3% for the combined training group, with mean clubhead speed increasing 1.5%.
Once you incorporate these three techniques into your golf fitness program, you’ll never be disappointed about your driving distance or power of the tee.
