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Gain 30+ Yards With The Slingshot Golf Swing

By Performance Golf Zone · · 3 min read
Performance Golf coach JT Thomas showcasing his golf swing.

Looking to add more distance to your drives? Chances are, the answer is YES!

In this video, JT Thomas from Performance Golf shares the secrets of the Slingshot Golf Swing, a method that can help you hit the ball 10, 20, or even 30 yards farther. By focusing on three key concepts—rib cage rotation, lead arm positioning, and right arm engagement—you can unlock effortless power and distance in your swing.

Step 1: Rib Cage Rotation in the Backswing

The first principle of the Slingshot Golf Swing is learning how to rotate your rib cage early in the backswing. Most golfers rely too heavily on their arms, which limits rotation and power.

The Drill:

Performance Golf coach JT Thomas with a golf club across his chest and under his arms to demonstrate a drill.

  1. Place your driver under your armpits and dangle your arms in front.
  2. Turn your rib cage as far as you can, feeling your hips and belly button rotate naturally.
  3. By the time your hands are level with your thighs, aim for at least 30-45 degrees of rib cage rotation.

This movement ensures your swing starts with proper body rotation rather than an arm-driven motion.

Step 2: Lead Arm Positioning

Many golfers pull their lead arm (left arm for right-handed players) too low and across their body, which restricts movement and creates weak, inaccurate shots. To maximize your backswing, the lead arm needs to lift and stay in front of your body.

The Drill:

Performance Golf coach JT Thomas holding a golf club outward from his chest in a golf swing drill.

  1. Place the club shaft against your sternum with your lead hand six inches ahead of it.
  2. Rotate your rib cage while maintaining the same distance between your lead hand and the shaft.
  3. Focus on lifting your lead arm up and over your chest (pec muscle) as you rotate.

This adjustment increases range of motion and creates more power at the top of your swing.

Step 3: Right Arm Engagement

The final step to mastering the Slingshot Golf Swing is properly engaging your right arm (trail arm). When done correctly, the right arm pulls back to create depth and stretch in the backswing. This drill is intended for right handed golfers – for lefties, just swap the right and left arms.

The Drill:

Performance Golf coach JT Thomas holding his golf club with his left hand and holding his wrist with his right, in a drill.

  1. Place your right hand on your left wrist to guide your lead arm back and around.
  2. Focus on pulling your right arm back as your left arm lifts and stays in front of your body.
  3. Feel the stretch in your lead side and the rotation in your trail shoulder.

This move completes the backswing, allowing for a powerful and efficient downswing.

Putting It All Together

To gain the full benefits of the Slingshot Golf Swing, combine all three principles:

  • Rib Cage Rotation to start the swing.
  • Lead Arm Lifting to maintain range of motion.
  • Right Arm Pulling Back to create depth and power.

With practice, these movements will help you generate more speed and hit drives that sail 30+ yards farther. As JT Thomas says, focus on body rotation and positioning rather than just swinging with your arms to see an immediate improvement in your distance.

If you’re tired of watching your playing partners outdrive you, mastering the Slingshot Golf Swing is the key to leveling the playing field. By emphasizing rib cage rotation, lead arm lift, and right arm engagement, you can unlock significant power and consistency in your swing.

For more tips to improve your golf game, like and subscribe to our Performance Golf’s channel—and get ready to start outdriving your friends!

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