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Golf coach Claire Batista shares a practical driver lesson that proves you don’t need to swing harder to hit longer, straighter tee shots. Using Trackman data to back up her findings, she walks through a simple grip and swing drill that works even if you have limited mobility or range of motion. It’s an encouraging watch for anyone who wants more from their driver without the effort.
Claire Batista – Driving
In this video, Claire Batista breaks down exactly why so many golfers struggle with the driver — and how fixing your grip and simplifying your swing thought can deliver real distance gains. Backed by live Trackman numbers, the lesson focuses on letting the club do the work rather than forcing extra power. It suits golfers at any level who want straighter, more consistent drives.
Key Takeaways
Get your grip right first
Get your grip right first
Place the club across the fingers of your left hand with the fleshy pad on top, and ensure both Vs point to your right shoulder — this allows your wrists to hinge correctly and is the foundation of everything else.
Think shaft over right shoulder, shaft over left
Rather than focusing on a big body turn, use this simple thought to guide the club on the correct path, keeping elbows pointing down throughout to avoid a chicken wing or a flying elbow.
Hit up on the ball with your driver
Playing the ball forward in your stance and focusing on an upswing contact reduces backspin and adds distance — Trackman numbers in the video show Claire hitting 200-plus yards without swinging hard.
Take these three cues — grip, elbow position, and ball placement — to the range and work through the feet-together drill before gradually widening your stance as your confidence builds. This video is particularly valuable for golfers who feel they’ve hit a ceiling with their driver distance, or those with physical limitations who need a more efficient swing rather than a more powerful one.
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