The chart from PING might just be the most important in all of golf. It represents perfection, putting into cold hard numbers the drives we all dream of hitting. The kind that Rory, Bryson, and Ludvig launch high, fly flat, and roll out forever.
I call them knucklebombs, and they’re probably the most important shot in the game today. Hit one consistently, whether you’re a pro or amateur, and you’ll earn instant respect.
In our last Film Study video, I asked if you wanted to learn more about knucklebombs. The answer was a resounding yes. So that’s what we did in this edition of Film Study. We dive into the physics, the golf swing keys, and hear some insights from experts. The goal is to explain what knucklebombs are, how the pros hit them, why they’re so effective, and how you can do it too.
Because yes, it doesn’t matter your handicap. That chart proves anyone can launch a knucklebomb. It comes down to balancing a few crucial elements in your technique. You can watch the full video below.
How to hit Knucklebombs Tip #1: Tee it (very) high
The common denominator is that knucklebombers all hit up on the ball with driver. Tee it high, at least half the ball above the crown, to give the clubhead room to attack on the upswing.
The more positive the angle of attack, the higher the ball will launch initially, which will propel the ball into the air without having to rely on backspin. You can overdo this, which we’ll get to, but pegging the ball tall is the important first step.
How to hit Knucklebombs Tip #2: Push into left foot, then tilt back
This is the key golf swing move, but a tricky one to master. Hitting up on the ball is important, but not enough on its own. Often you’ll see amateurs cheat this by staying back on their right leg, and flipping their hands. That helps them hit up, but in a way that costs them power.
Pros know how to get the best of both worlds: They shift into their left leg, then jump backward off it. This tilts their upper body back so they hit up on the ball, all while helping their body’s overall momentum move towards the target.
Golf Digest Best in State teacher Joe Plecker wrote about this essential move right here.
How to hit Knucklebombs Tip #3: Get optimized
Now for that overdoing it part. High launch and low spin is the goal. But high launch and NO spin (and by that we mean, very little spin) can backfire hard on your game. Too little spin will prevent the ball from getting into the air, diving it back to earth uncontrollably.
That’s why Ping’s chart is so important, and it’s so essential to work with a good fitter. It’s what allows you to get the most distance, without flirting with disaster.
Once again, you can watch the full video below.
This article was originally published on golfdigest.com
