Introduction
Increasing swing speed isn’t just about training harder—it’s about training smarter. But most amateur golfers unknowingly hold onto outdated advice that actually holds their swing speed back. In this post, we bust five common myths that may be costing you serious yards off the tee.
Myth #1: “You have to be young and athletic to swing fast”
This one stops more golfers than any other. While flexibility and strength help, swing speed is about mechanics and sequencing, not age or athleticism. Golfers in their 60s and even 70s have increased their swing speed by improving mobility and efficiency—not bulking up.
Truth: You can build speed at any age with the right drills and body movement.
Myth #2: “A longer backswing means more speed”
This sounds logical, but more length doesn’t always equal more power. Many amateurs overextend their backswing, lose balance, and reduce their ability to create torque.
Truth: Controlled, coiled backswings with a full hip and shoulder turn generate more usable speed than wild, floppy ones.
Myth #3: “You should keep your feet planted during the swing”
Ever heard the phrase “stay grounded”? That advice helped some players with control, but it often limits power. Allowing the lead heel to lift (like Jack Nicklaus used to do) frees up your hips and builds a bigger coil.
Truth: A mobile lower body = more stored energy = faster swing.
Myth #4: “Speed training ruins your swing”
Some fear that training for speed means you’ll lose control or mess up your form. In reality, smart speed training reinforces your sequencing and builds explosive coordination.
Truth: Done correctly, swing speed training makes your swing more efficient, not less.
Myth #5: “Light clubs are for seniors, not speed”
Many golfers think heavy equals powerful—but when it comes to speed training, lighter is often better. Lightweight speed sticks or junior driver shafts can help you train faster muscle firing patterns.
Truth: Training with light clubs (and combining with heavy ones) is a proven method used by Tour pros.
Conclusion
Most amateur golfers are chasing swing speed with the wrong mindset. By letting go of these myths and training smarter—not harder—you’ll unlock faster, more powerful swings without changing your swing DNA.