How to Hit a Long Drive in Golf
The game of golf can be challenging, and so can trying to hit that elusive long drive that allows you to sit comfortably in the fairway only a short shot or a pitch away from the green. Teeing off with your driver will give you the best chance for a long drive. The basics of swinging your driver verses your irons are similar except that there are adjustments you need to make. Also make sure you tee the ball properly, learn how to play your slice or hook, and make sure you have the proper follow through.
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Instructions
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Hit with your driver. This is your best bet for a long drive. A driver is the "wood" with the largest shaft, and it is designed to create distance with a varying amount of loft. Drivers come in different sizes and allow for different lofts, so choose a driver that suits your swing. If your swing speed is higher, which tends to loft the ball, then you'd be better with a lower-loft driver (less than 13 degrees of loft).
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Make adjustments to your swing when using your driver. A wider stance will allow you better balance while swinging your driver, which is typically your longest club. Standing more upright and with your hands away from your body more will allow you to add power to your swing.
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Determine tee length. Teeing the ball means placing the ball on a tee and hitting the elevated ball. This can only be done when "teeing off," which is the first shot of every hole. To determine tee length, set up in your stance and set the club on the ground. Put a tee in the ground and place a ball on top of it. The top half of the ball should meet the midway point of your club. A general rule is, the higher the tee, the better.
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Learn how to "play your slice." Slicing can be detrimental to producing a long drive. By turning your stance slightly to the left of the fairway when teeing off, you can help counter the slice. Hooking is the opposite slicing, so your stance should be toward the right of the fairway if you have problems hooking your ball.
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Follow through on your swing. Following through on your swing is always important, but just take a look at the professional golfers: they stand watching their drives for a reason. They are locked in their follow through. Make sure you sweep the ball off the tee and follow all the way through so the club rests on your front shoulder.
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Tips & Warnings
Check your grip. It should feel comfortable and not too tight. Your grip will naturally tighten as you swing the club. Try gloves if your hands slip too much while swinging.
Your driver should not hit the ground when teeing off. If it does, you need to tee the ball higher.
