Distance control is probably one of the hardest elements of the game. Anyone can hit a long drive once in a while. Anyone can hit a career fairway wood shot, and anyone can hit an iron shot next to the flag. The real skill is being able to hit your shots the required distance on a regular basis.
One of the problems that golfers face is being comfortable with the distance that they hit the ball. In golf, we all want to hit it further than our mates. Sure, there are a few ways where improving your technique and equipment can improve your distance, but unfortunately in life, there will be that one person that hits it the longest and the other who hits it the shortest.
Fortunately, we all do not have to hit as long as Bubba Watson to win a tournament. I remember Corey Pavin, probably the shortest hitter on tour, beating Greg Norman to win a Major. It is not about how far you hit the ball, it is about how well you control the distance of your shots! Most club golfers who practice on the range, hit their shots at 100% power. That is fine if you are trying to practice how far your shots will travel when hit at 100% power, but how often do we play shots on the course at 100%?
If you go through your most recent round, count how many shots you hit at 100% power (do not include the driver). You will find that you would not have hit more than a dozen shots at 100%, so why hit a bucket of balls at 100% power? You shouldn’t!
On the golf course you will find yourself “in-between” clubs when playing a shot. These are the shots that most players struggle with and practice the least. Another piece of advice is to never hit your wedges at 100% power. It would be extremely rare to find an elite player hitting any wedge at 100% power. They will always take an extra club and swing at a three quarter pace, which will give them a better strike, a more consistent control of distance, and a more accurate shot.
Players are too often leaving their shots short because they try to manipulate the control of their shot, which causes a player to slow down their speed, resulting in a weak and usually “fat” shot. Practicing shots on the range and the practice fairway are great, but learn that the length of your backswing will determine how far the shot will go, not the manipulation in your hands at impact. When practicing, change your distances consistently and try to play various shots with each club. Do this by lengthening or shortening your backswing. Maintain a smooth tempo and you will find you will be able to control your distances better. Taking a divot is an important key to crisp and compressed ball striking. Do not be afraid to take a divot and to trust your swing. Maintaining momentum through the ball is a key to success!