The ability to drive your golf ball in a straight line is important for any golfer, but the driver club is the hardest to master for most players. Typically the longer the club length is, the more difficult it will be for you to use the club correctly, but learning how you can drive the golf ball in a straight line is possible when you have quality tips and practice consistently.

The ideal tee shot will travel low, the ball will not have significant backspin, and there will be enough power to cause your ball to roll for some distance upon landing. If all of these elements are mastered then you will see a big improvement in your game.

Leverage

If the goal is driving the ball straight then you need to understand how important leverage is during every part of your swing. Getting the needed leverage is easy to do when you keep your head behind the golf ball all the way through your swing, from addressing the ball to impacting it.

Club Head Speed…Not Arm Strength

To get distance you need club head speed, not arm strength. If you try to use arm strength on your shot you will end up with a less than effective result. Instead use your lower body, the hips and legs, to get the club head speed and the power needed.

The driver is not flexible concerning your swing path, the same way that other clubs can be. You want a low swing plane when you start the backswing for the straightest shot.

Try a Slower Downswing

If you tend to slice or hook when you make the shot then one helpful hint is to slow down your downswing. If your downswing is faster or harder than it should be you will not stay on the right swing path.

Your grip can also cause a slice or a hook if you are not gripping the club properly. Make sure that you can see either two knuckles or three knuckles when you look down, otherwise you will usually either slice or hook the ball.

Lead with Your Hands

For a straight drive your hands should be leading the club head when you make impact with the ball. This is the reason behind the phrase “let your wrists break”.

Many golfers attempt to stop in mid swing once impact with the ball is made, and this is a mistake. Allow your body including your arms finish the swing including your follow through.

Loosen Your Grip

Make sure your grip is not too tight on the club. Your club should whip the ball and not chop at it.

Don’t Ignore Your Divot

If you want to drive straight then you need to make sure that you are not either pulling the ball or pushing it. These mistakes can happen anywhere on the course, from the tee to the fairway. The divot your shot leaves will identify whether you are pushing or pulling the ball. If your body alignment is not correct your divot will point either left or right of the target line.

These tips can help you drive straight and improve your score as long as you practice consistently. Briarcreek Golf Club in Charlotte, NC is a terrific place to get some practice in, and there are many other ideal practice locations in the area as well.

Tags: How to Drive the Ball Straight