Tip From the Archives

Age and Distance

Problem

You cannot swing as far as you used to at a younger age.

Cure

As you age, it becomes more common for you to slouch and to rest your chin on your chest at some point during the golf swing. Make sure you are standing upright and keeping your chin up to help prevent losing distances because of slouching.

Therapy

There is no shame in hitting from the golden tees once you are unable to hit the ball as far as you used to. You can also tryout longer shafts in your woods and drivers to help you gain some yardages. Another simple adjustment you can make is to move the ball up just a little in your stance so you make contact with the ball just as you start your upswing. Remember to keep your shoulders back, spine straight, and your abdominals engaged so you can make a full turn. Some golfers also find it easier to turn their hips by flaring one or both of their feet. It might benefit you to experiment by pointing your toes a little away from the ball.

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9 votes

 
dearinger | 2 years ago, mid-August

You could also only play the holes that have wind at your back. Or, try using women's golf balls since they have more lift than the standard male golf balls. That lift will give you a little more distance. Or, you could decide to only play at old muni courses or executive course where the longest holes are less than 400 yards. Or, you could just man up! Exercise, stretch, play better course management and stop whining!!!

linda | 2 years ago, mid-August

Not everyone benefits from exercise and stretching...when you're old you're old. The 80's plus folks in my golf group adapt to their age and still play great games. Experience can make up for a lot when you pitch, chip and putt.

Dave | 2 years ago, mid-August

The key is to use the tees that give you a decent chance to reach the green in regulation. Keeping it on the fairway, short game and putting are where the real skills of golf are. If that means using the most forward tees, man up and do it. Occasionally some one will rib me for using "ladies tees." My reply is to invite him to join me on those tees and play for $10 a hole.

Bob | 2 years ago, mid-August

The recommendation of using a longer shaft is a fallacy. Most players can't hit a standard 45" driver straight. Tiger uses a 43 and 1/2 " driver and has difficulty keeping it in play. Try a shorter shaft if your driver is 45". Club head speed at impact with a square face is what will give you more distance. good luck.



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