Want even more distance off the tee? Speeding up your backswing might give you another gear.. According to research from Tour Tempo, the world’s best golfers rely on quick, forceful backswings to generate explosive power. Here’s what the data reveals and how you can apply it to your game.
The Science Behind a Faster Backswing
Tour Tempo’s extensive research, backed by studies from Dr. Robert Grober at Yale University’s Department of Applied Physics, shows that another key to more distance is about optimizing the timing of your swing. Specifically, the ratio between the time it takes to complete your backswing and your downswing is critical. A smaller ratio (closer to 3:1) creates more speed and power.
Here are three compelling speed facts from Tour Tempo’s analysis of the last 100 major winners:
-
Tighter Ratios Rule: The majority of major champions had a backswing-to-downswing time ratio that was highly efficient, emphasizing speed over a slow, syrupy motion.
-
Lightning-Fast Swings: Most winners took less than 1.2 seconds from takeaway to impact, showcasing the need for a brisk overall swing.
-
Quick Backswings Dominate: An impressive 75% of these winners completed their backswings in 0.75 seconds or less.
Force: The Invisible Powerhouse
Force is the engine behind speed, and it starts with your backswing. Dr. Grober’s research highlights that golfers who achieve the ideal 3:1 ratio apply more force into the ground and the club handle during the backswing. While the downswing generates roughly twice as much force, the backswing sets the stage for that explosive power.
For recreational golfers, this means your backswing needs to be dynamic, not just smooth. A forceful backswing primes your body to unleash speed through impact, leading to longer drives. The best part? You don’t have to muscle the club harder—adding force early in the swing naturally boosts speed where it matters at impact.
Benefits Beyond Distance
A faster, more forceful backswing doesn’t just add yards—it can also improve accuracy. By incorporating these principles, you’ll likely find your swing on a better plane, leading to straighter shots. It’s a win-win: more distance and better control.
How to Add Force to Your Backswing
Ready to tap into this power? Focus on these key points:
-
Engage the Ground: SuperSpeed has created several protocols in the new App on how to properly train Ground Reaction Forces.
-
Grip with Purpose: Apply controlled force to the club handle as you start your backswing to build momentum. The SuperSpeed Squeeze and App protocols teach you all about how to develop and use proper grip pressure at different points in the swing
- Stay Dynamic: Avoid a slow, overly smooth backswing. Think quick and purposeful to set up a powerful downswing.
Take Your Game Further
The data is clear: a faster backswing, fueled by force, is a game-changer for distance and accuracy. Whether you’re a weekend golfer or aspiring to compete, incorporating Tour Tempo’s insights can help you unlock your potential off the tee.
Thanks to John Novosel Jr. and Coach Jon Tattersall for putting together these insights.