2 Golf Swing Release Positions for More Distance

Clay Ballard from Top Speed Golf breaks down two critical swing positions to maximize clubhead speed and compression. He demonstrates how to maintain downswing lag until the shaft is parallel to the ground and how to cross the forearms through impact for a full, powerful release.

• At shaft-parallel on the downswing, your lead hand should cover your rear thigh to ensure lag is maintained.
• Casting early wastes clubhead speed before the club reaches the impact zone.
• Hand speed slows near impact so energy transfers cleanly into accelerating the clubhead.
• Past impact, forearms should cross into an 'X' shape with the toe pointing vertical or slightly closed for a full release.

Go deeper

• Distance loss — Causes, drills and coaches for this miss
• Release — The lesson, across every coach
• Top Speed Golf - Clay Ballard — Every video, sorted by what it teaches