How to safely improve your ‘X-Factor’ in Golf

Safely improving the x-factor of your swing is a must for golfers of all stripes. But unless you’re careful, increasing the length of your drive can come with a high cost. So, what is your ‘x-factor’, and why is it essential to manage it safely?

What is it?

A perfect example can be seen in Rory McIlroy’s performance in the 2013 season, where he continuously led the field despite being 5'10" and 11.4st, compared to the average player who clocked in at 6'1" and 13.3st. Despite this size disparity, McIlroy generated heaps of power in his swing, which perfectly complemented his phenomenal precision with ball placement.

This power was and still is generated by McIlroy’s rotational speed along his x-axis. Known as the ‘kinetic chain’ in golf, players draw power from the ground up, channelling their swing from their legs, along their spine and torso, through the arms, and finally down through the club. The length of the drive is due to the hips and shoulders – with the distance between the two being the ‘x factor, the degree of contortion the spine undergoes. The higher the degree of contortion, the greater the length of the drive… and the damage to the spine.

But if you drive hundreds if not thousands of balls while training daily, those injuries soon start to stack up. This inescapable damage makes spinal problems almost inevitable for golfers.

However, simple treatment can often help prevent this damage from catching up with you or work to actively mitigate an ongoing condition.