Increasing CHS Practicing Strategy: Swing away or gradually build?

[kurtwainwright]

Howdy ya'll.
I posted something similar to this earlier in the spring. I got some good opinions and advice then. I'm reposting now to see if I get varying opinions again.

This spring I asked a question in the forum about a practicing strategy for driving.

Strategy 1) Swing out of my shoes to build up as much club head speed as possible. Nevermind where the ball goes at first.. just hit it. Then, when I feel comfortable swinging fast (and by fast I mean 110MPH+), dial it down a notch to regain control.

Strategy 2) Swing easy and get a hold on ball control off the tee. Then gradually attempt to increase my CHS from 85MPHish to 95MPHish, and so on....

The way I got this idea was by talking with a buddy of mine at work who's a 6 handicap. He learned how to swing at an early age and in his teenage years began swinging extremely hard and fast. He built is muscle memory and still swings 115MPH+ at 30 years old. I, on the other hand, didn't really start playing until my late 20's and never learned to swing hard.

So which strategy is the most sound? Give me your opinions.

Editorial Note: This May I spent some money at GolfTEC and received a superb driving performance lesson. I've increased my CHS from 82~87MPH to 97~105MPH by changing a few things that were very wrong with my setup and my swing in general. I've increased driving distance from a measly 210 yards to about 260 yards. With the end of the Missouri golf season quickly approaching, I'm back to the same dilemma... to swing hard in the spring, continue with the GolfTEC touchup lessons, or ???

[mdvaldosta]

Have no idea really what would be best for you, but most people can benefit greatly by having a good stretching and workout program. Not heavy weights, just lots of quicker reps and lots and lots of stretching. Flexibility and good technique is the key to power, at least in my opinion.

[iacas]

The problem with swinging fast is that your clubhead speed may not actually be any faster. Too often swinging fast throws off your timing and balance and you actually end up swinging more SLOWLY.

I'd continue with the lessons. And do some flexibility and toning exercises.