April 1, 2008--We all want to "Go Big or Go Home", in just about anything, but especially when it comes to teeing off in golf. Even if the adage is "Drive for Show, Putt For Dough" we all love the long ball. And now VIP Golf Academy Director of Instruction Earl Svenningsen tells us the key to hitting it longer "is a function of clubhead speed, weight shift, and body turn or torque. Those three elements done together will give you the maximum power. The wider the arc and the faster the club is swung will result in longer tee shots." VIP Golf Academy offers Las Vegas golf schools at TPC Las Vegas (pictured). For more ...

"Lengthen the arc of your swing by increasing your weight shift to your right side on the backswing," says Svenningsen. "Move as much weight shift as you want, as long as you brace your move to the inside of your right foot. Stretch your arms as you take the club back from the ball. At the top of the swing, reach a little higher. Keep the swing’s length the same, but stretch it by reaching higher."

Click now to read the complete Hit it Longer tip from Svenningsen in addition to viewing photos that illustrate this tip.

Question for the pro? Click now for school information or to contact the pro.

TPC Las Vegas (formerly TPC Canyons) is "desert elegance" defined, and is where the PGA Tour plays. The course has played host to events on both the PGA Tour and Champions Tour, and was designed by Bobby Weed with PGA Tour consultation by Raymond Floyd. TPC Las Vegas is one of two Las Vegas golf courses owned by the PGA Tour. The private TPC Summerin--host of the PGA Tour's Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open--is the other.

The VIP Golf Academy at TPC Las Vegas is headed by esteemed teaching professional Bob Byman.

Svenningsen is an accomplished PGA of America teaching professional with the following teaching philosophy:

"Everyone is different in physical characteristics, strength, golfing ability, motivation and expectations. I teach each individual in a way that is best suited to his or her learning style and golfing needs. My teaching philosophy revolves around the premise that the golf swing is a "swinging motion," and that power is generated by clubhead speed, weight shift, and body turn. All of these elements done together, in a rhythmical buildup of speed, will give you maximum results. My job as a teacher is to place you in a position, both physically and mentally, so you will be able to swing the club in your most efficient and effective manner, and that you understand and feel what you are to accomplish."