One technique that golfers often employ when addressing the ball with their driver is to hover the clubhead just above the turf rather than allowing it to rest on the ground. This technique, known as hovering, can have several benefits and is commonly used by golfers of all skill levels. Here are some reasons why golfers choose to hover the driver clubhead:

  1. Avoiding Ground Interference: One of the primary reasons for hovering the driver clubhead is to prevent interference with the ground during the swing. By keeping the clubhead slightly above the turf, golfers minimize the risk of the clubhead catching on the ground, which could lead to a mis-hit or a poor contact with the ball. This technique allows for a cleaner and more consistent strike.
  2. Promoting a Sweeping Motion: Hovering the clubhead encourages a sweeping motion through the ball rather than a downward strike. This sweeping action can help golfers achieve a higher launch angle and generate more distance off the tee. By avoiding excessive downward pressure, golfers can promote a more efficient and powerful swing.
  3. Creating a Neutral Angle of Attack: When the driver clubhead rests on the ground at address, it can encourage a steeper angle of attack, leading to a higher likelihood of a descending blow. By hovering the clubhead, golfers have the opportunity to create a more neutral angle of attack, which can result in a more optimal launch and trajectory.
  4. Allowing for Proper Ball Position: Hovering the clubhead facilitates better control over ball position. When the clubhead rests on the ground, it can be challenging to position the ball accurately in the desired location in the stance. By hovering the clubhead, golfers have a clearer view of the ball and can more easily position it in the appropriate spot relative to their stance and swing.
  5. Enhancing Visual Alignment: Hovering the clubhead can improve visual alignment and aim. With the clubhead hovering above the turf, golfers can better visualize the target line and align themselves properly. This technique allows for greater precision in alignment, helping golfers aim their shots more accurately.
  6. Promoting Confidence and Rhythm: Hovering the clubhead can contribute to a golfer's overall confidence and rhythm. By keeping the clubhead off the ground, golfers can establish a smooth and flowing pre-shot routine. This consistent routine can help golfers get into a confident and focused mindset before each swing, leading to more consistent and controlled shots.
  7. Adaptation to Different Lies: Hovering the clubhead allows golfers to adapt to different lies on the course. In situations where the ball is sitting on a tight or uneven lie, such as in the rough or in a divot, hovering the clubhead can provide better versatility in addressing the ball. It allows golfers to adjust the clubhead position without interference from the ground, ensuring better contact and control.

    Here are some of the primary benefits of hovering the golf driver clubhead:

    1. Adaptation to Various Lies: Hovering the clubhead allows for better adaptation to different lies on the course. In situations where the ball is sitting on an uneven or tight lie, such as in the rough or a divot, hovering the clubhead provides flexibility in adjusting the clubhead position without interference from the ground. This ensures better contact and control over the shot.
    2. Consistency: Hovering the clubhead can contribute to a golfer's overall consistency. It can become part of a golfer's pre-shot routine, promoting a consistent setup and swing. Establishing a routine that includes hovering the clubhead can help golfers develop a sense of familiarity and comfort, leading to improved performance on the course.

    It's important to note that while hovering the clubhead offers advantages, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some golfers prefer the feel and stability of resting the clubhead on the ground. The decision to hover or rest the clubhead ultimately depends on individual preference and comfort.

While hovering the driver clubhead has its advantages, it is important to note that it is a personal preference and may not be suitable for all golfers. Some players may find that resting the clubhead on the ground helps with stability or alignment. It is essential to experiment and find the setup that works best for your swing and comfort level.

In conclusion, hovering the driver clubhead just above the turf at address can offer numerous benefits for golfers. It allows for cleaner ball contact, promotes a sweeping motion, creates a neutral angle of attack, improves visual alignment, enhances confidence and rhythm, and facilitates adaptation to different lies. As with any aspect of the golf swing, it is essential to find what works best for you and practice the technique to develop consistency and accuracy off the tee.