In order to hit the ball as far as possible, a golfer must find the optimal combination of ball speed, launch angle and spin rate. Simply stated, the farthest drives are hit with a high launch angle and a low spin rate with contact made in the center of the clubface. By simply hitting up on the ball with the driver, the ball launches higher, while the spin rate stays the same thus allowing the ball to go further.
This figure shows the difference between somebody hitting down on the ball swinging at 90 mph vs. hitting up on the ball at 90 mph. The image shows that by simply hitting up on the ball, the ball speed will increase, the ball will launch higher and the ball will spin optimally. Due to the optimized numbers, the ball traveled 23 yards farther without an increase in club head speed.
How to do this: To hit up on the ball with the driver, there are a few “unconventional” things that you must do. The first thing that I recommend is to purchase 3¼ inch tees to make it easier to hit up on the ball. Secondly, I recommend moving your ball position off the front of your left arm. Once again, this will make it easier to hit up on the ball. Although these golf tips will feel awkward, I assure you that this will allow you to launch the ball farther.
Along with hitting up on the ball with the driver, it is especially important to hit the ball on the center of the face. Due to gear effect, the club head will twist slightly when the ball is not hit in the center of the clubface. An impact off the toe will create a draw spin axis, while a shot off the heel creates a fade spin axis. By hitting the ball in the center of the clubface, golfers can easily increase accuracy and distance. Rather that trying to hit the ball harder with the driver, I would encourage golfers to focus on hitting the ball in the center of the clubface.
