How to Increase Golf Swing Speed: Proven Tips for More Distance

One of the quickest ways to hit the ball farther—and lower your scores—is by increasing your swing speed. While technique and accuracy matter, a faster swing translates into more ball speed, more carry, and more yards off the tee.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to increase golf swing speed with drills, fitness tips, and equipment adjustments.

Why Swing Speed Matters

• Ball Speed = Distance: For every 1 mph of swing speed, you gain about 2–3 yards of distance.

• Better Scoring Opportunities: Longer drives = shorter approach shots.

• Confidence Boost: Outdriving your buddies never gets old.

How to Increase Golf Swing Speed

Step 1: Improve Your Mechanics

Relax Your Grip and Arms

Tension kills speed. A smoother grip and relaxed arms allow the club to whip through impact.

Use Your Hips & Rotation

Power starts from the ground up. Focus on rotating your hips and shoulders instead of just swinging with your arms.

🎯 Drill: Step-Through Drill

• Take your normal swing, but step forward with your trail foot as you swing through.

• This teaches proper weight transfer and rotational speed.

Step 2: Speed Training Drills

Overspeed Training

Swing lighter clubs (or training sticks like SuperSpeed Golf) to train your body to move faster.

Heavy Club Training

Alternate swinging a heavier club to build strength.

Swing Fast, Not Hard

Practice taking 5–10 swings at maximum speed without worrying about contact. This trains your body to move quicker.

Step 3: Build Golf Strength & Flexibility

Key Muscles for Swing Speed

• Core (rotation power)

• Glutes (stability and strength)

• Shoulders (club control)

Simple Golf Fitness Moves

• Medicine ball rotational throws

• Resistance band hip rotations

• Planks and side planks

• Squats and lunges

🎯 Pro Tip: Flexibility is just as important as strength—stretch your hips, hamstrings, and shoulders daily.

Step 4: Optimize Equipment

• Shaft Flex: If your shaft is too stiff, you lose speed. Make sure your driver shaft matches your swing.

• Driver Loft: Higher loft can increase carry distance if your launch angle is too low.

• Ball Choice: Low-compression balls can help slower swing speeds gain extra yards.

👉 See our guide on the Best Golf Balls for Distance for recommendations.

Step 5: Measure and Track Progress

You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Use a swing speed radar or personal launch monitor (like PRGR or Garmin R10) to track your speed over time.

Set small goals:

• +2 mph in 4 weeks

• +5 mph in 8 weeks

That could mean 10–15 extra yards without changing your swing mechanics.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to increase golf swing speed is a combination of technique, training, and smart equipment choices.

• Relax and use your whole body.

• Train with overspeed drills.

• Build golf-specific strength and flexibility.

• Optimize your driver setup.

• Track progress and celebrate gains.

Add just 5 mph to your swing, and you could gain 10–15 extra yards—enough to make every hole feel easier.

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