Swing Speed

Question
Like another Steve who recently asked you about swing speed, I too have question. First, I am 64 and eight months ago underwent rotator cuff surgery. I recently had my swing speed measured at 87 mph. Where does that stand for someone my age? My handicap falls in the 17-19 range, having actually improved significantly since my surgery and the purchase of a new set of Callaway X-22s and a Nike 10.5 degree SQ5900 driver. Currently I am getting on average an about 215 yard drive, with about 200 of that in the air. What can I do to increase my swing speed without fear of retearing my rotator cuff? Or, consider my age, should I be reasonable satisfied with the way I am hitting it now since I can still on occasion crank off a 240-260 drive when I manage the percent alignment of speed and tempo. What should I work on?

Answer
Steve:

87 mph for a 64 yr. old coming off rotator cuff surgery is very good.  The best thing you can do for more distance Steve (assuming your clubs and shafts have been professionally fit for you) is to work on flexibility and strengthening your forearms, hands and wrists.  Getting more flexible will elongate your tendons, tissues and muscles which produce more speed.  Getting stronger in the forearms, hands and wrists will help you gain more power through the strike.  Other than that, depending on your motivation, strength training with a personal trainer for golf specific would never hurt your desire for more distance.  But that is a personal thing.  But whatever you do, get more flexible.  That is my first piece of advice.  Good luck Steve, glad you're back playing again.  

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Member