How to Load a Golf Shaft for Power

The golf shaft, when properly swung, is designed to flex during the back swing and spring back during the release of the club, which happens at impact. Loading the shaft increases the amount of energy transferred into the golf ball during impact, increasing the ball's distance and spin rate. To load a golf shaft for power, you need a holistic understanding of how the golf swing works leading up to the loading and subsequently how to transfer that load during impact -- a skill that may take years to master.

Instructions

    • 1

      Firmly plant your feet, shoulder width apart. Address the ball, positioned slightly forward from the center of your stance, with the butt of the club point to your belly button. Your knees should be bent slightly, your back slightly arched -- an athletic stance overall.

    • 2

      Begin the take-away, keeping your hands, arms, hips, shoulders and clubhead in sync initially. As you reach one-quarter backswing, where the club is pointed straight back, parallel to the ground, begin to fold your right elbow while maintaining a straight left arm. Reach for the sky to create the largest arc you can maintain. The larger the arc, the greater the clubhead speed, an essential component to more power.

    • 3

      Stop the club for a fraction of a second at the top of the swing, when the club is parallel to the ground. This initial change in direction forces the shaft to bend, loading it with un-sprung energy.

    • 4

      Begin the down swing by rotating your hips, then shoulders, followed by your arms and finally the club, all around your spine. Don't change your spine angle during the swing, it's the pivot point for the loading process. As your torso rotates towards impact, keep your left arm straight while imagining dropping your right elbow into your back pocket. This will keep your swing on plane and drop you into what's called the "slot."

    • 5

      Drive your hips around your legs, straighten your right arm and maintain a firm (not bent) left wrist as you impact the ball. At this point, the shaft will rebound and transfer its loaded energy into the ball, as long as you don't bend the left wrist or slide your hips left. With this proven technique, you'll hit the ball harder and farther, with more control.