How to Drive a Golf Ball

As executive vice president of Total Quality Engineering, Philip Calhoun oversees the development of operation methodologies as executive vice president. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Philip Calhoun pursues an interest in the game of golf.

One of the most important skills in golf is the driving of the ball. Distance is crucial, yet it is ineffective to place too much strength behind the shot. Instead of giving the ball more distance, an excess of force can cause the ball to curve off path.

Instead of rushing into the drive, the golfer should prepare carefully by placing the inside of the lead foot in line with the ball. The ball should be a bit farther away from the body as compared to other shots, as the goal is to allow the driver to come in contact with the ball on the upswing.

The backswing should be deliberate but long. The shoulders turn and weight transfers to the front foot as the hips rotate toward the target. The club then naturally scoops the ball off of the tee without a lifting motion from the golfer.