Golf doesn’t have to get harder with age. In fact, many senior golfers improve their consistency and enjoyment by making a few smart swing adjustments. You don’t need extra strength or flexibility—just better mechanics, balance, and timing. Here are some simple swing changes that can help senior golfers hit the ball longer, straighter, and with less strain on the body.

1. Widen Your Stance for Better Balance

As we age, balance becomes more important than power. A slightly wider stance gives you a more stable base and helps prevent swaying during the swing. This leads to cleaner contact and more consistent shots.

Tip: Your feet should be just outside shoulder width, with weight evenly distributed.

2. Shorten the Backswing

A long backswing can put stress on the shoulders and lower back. Many seniors play better with a shorter, more controlled backswing that still creates plenty of clubhead speed.

Focus on: Turning your shoulders, not lifting your arms too high.

3. Improve Posture to Protect Your Back

Good posture allows your body to rotate freely without discomfort. Stand tall, bend slightly from the hips, and keep your spine neutral. Poor posture often leads to slices, topped shots, and back pain.

Key reminder: Relax your knees and let your arms hang naturally.

4. Use a Smooth, Slower Tempo

Swinging harder doesn’t mean hitting farther. A smooth tempo improves timing and contact, which often results in more distance and accuracy.

Think: Easy back, smooth through—let the club do the work.

5. Adjust Ball Position for Cleaner Contact

Ball position has a big impact on strike quality. Playing the ball too far back can reduce distance, while too far forward can cause thin shots.

• Irons: Ball just forward of center
• Driver: Ball inside the lead heel

6. Focus on Rotation, Not Force

Many senior golfers try to generate power with their arms. Instead, focus on rotating your torso and letting your arms follow. This reduces strain and creates more efficient energy transfer.

Drill idea: Practice slow-motion swings, feeling your shoulders turn through the shot.

7. Finish in Balance Every Time

A balanced finish is a great indicator of a good swing. If you’re falling backward or off to the side, your swing is likely out of sync.

Goal: Finish tall, facing the target, with most of your weight on your front foot.

Final Thoughts

Senior golfers don’t need to swing like they did at 30 to play great golf. Small adjustments—better balance, smoother tempo, and improved posture—can make a huge difference. These simple swing changes help reduce injury risk while improving distance, accuracy, and overall enjoyment of the game.

Golf is a lifetime sport. With the right adjustments, your best golf may still be ahead of you.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/craighansongolf
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldclassgolfinstruction/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craighansongolf/
Download SWING SLAPP: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/swingslapp/id6670143659