For power, get more out of your backswing
Earlier in my career, there were many weeks I’d show up to the golf course knowing I couldn’t contend because of my distance shortcomings. I wanted to get longer, of course, but I didn’t want to fundamentally change my swing and sacrifice accuracy. My coach and I decided to consult biomechanist Sasho MacKenzie, who helped us craft a plan to add speed gradually. I also worked with my trainer, Matt Roberts, to make sure my body could support the changes. It’s worked wonders – I’ve added about 15 kilometres per hour of clubhead speed since 2019, and I’m averaging 15 yards more off the tee (300-yard average on PGA Tour year on year). I’m hitting it past guys who used to hit it past me. It’s a nice feeling. Part of my speed comes from my fast takeaway – yes, the takeaway. You might have been told to take the club back slow, but as long as you’re in sequence, ripping the club back faster just gives you a head start on building power. Don’t be afraid to add a little speed to your backswing. My takeaway for my stock driver shot is much faster than what you usually see on tour. If I really want to crank one – say it’s a wide-open par 5 or I really need to carry a bunker – I’ll use a trick Dr MacKenzie taught me and lift my left heel high off the ground in the backswing (right). It allows me to make a bigger turn, loading up on my back foot, before I start down and explode through the ball.
GOLF DIGEST SOUTH AFRICA 115
MARCH/APRIL 2025
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