I was taught to swing the club, not hit the ball. This distinction is crucial because it emphasizes using your entire body to generate power, rather than relying on your hands. As golfers age—especially with the average age nearing 50—one of the most common faults is hitting from the top or using the hands too much in the downswing. It’s understandable; we’ve spent our lives using our hands in everyday tasks and sports.

Many people who’ve played ball sports know this instinctively: true power and speed come from the levers you create with your legs and the coordinated movement of your body. When you swing the club, you’re using your body’s natural mechanics to send the ball into the air effortlessly. It’s this swing, not a forced hit, that leads to consistent, powerful shots.