Role model: Adam Scott

So as golf entered its enforced hiatus, who was the PGA Tour’s longest hitter? Brooks? Rory? Cameron Champ? In fact it was Golf’s Mad Scientist himself, Bryson DeChambeau. The 26-year-old American’s action might seem a bit workmanlike compared to some of the fluent athletes around him, but that doesn’t stop him getting it out there: to date in 2020 DeChambeau is averaging 321.3 yards, putting him right at the head of a prodigious cast list. This image captures him a beat into his downswing: here’s what you can learn from an object lesson in creäting and storing force.

Elbow power

Bryson has his trail elbow down and bent as he starts down. This is crucial to creating clubhead speed and maintaining a good delivery path; many club golfers straighten the elbow too early, promoting an out-to-in path. Loop a towel around your trail elbow, holding it tight with your lead hand. Make one-handed practice swings, pulling your elbow toward the ground.

Wrists loaded

Bryson is famous for having limited backswing wrist hinge, but we can see here that during the downswing the club shaft is at right angles to his lead arm. In contrast, many club golfers will cast the club out here. Releasing the club at the right time is essential for higher club head speed. Make rehearsal swings, feeling you maintain the 90° angle from the top until late into the downswing.

Body speed

Bryson has barely moved his arms or shoulders at this point, yet his hips are already facing the ball. This demonstrates a good movement sequence that boosts speed. To feel this, make a backswing with a slightly narrower stance; before you get to the top make a small step with your lead food toward the target. You should feel your lower body move first before your shoulders start to unwind.

Knee flex action

Bryson’s knees show some extra flex here. This helps him build power by moving against the ground. Later in the swing he’ll release that stored force by pushing off the ground. To understand this move and how it creates speed, do two standing jumps, one where you can flex your knees and one where you keep your legs straight. Which one can you go higher with?

Adam’s 2019 season by numbers

Driving distance: 321.3 yards(1st)

Strokes gained driving: 1.009 (3rd)

GIR: 69.02% (52nd)

Stroke average: 69.271 (5th)

World ranking: 13th

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