1) HIPS The key to the new X-factor is the first move down from the top—the change in direction—and you should start it by rotating your hips (illustartion at left) toward the target just as your shoulders are completing the backswing turn.

Contrast this with the common fault of starting down with the upper body, which actually narrows the "X" between your shoulders and hips. Learn to separate your hips from your shoulders and you'll hit longer drives right away.

2) RIGHT HEEL You generate power in your downswing from the ground up, and you can't stretch your "X" if you're out of balance. So before you do anything else, work on your footwork.

Your right foot should roll onto its instep as you swing down (large photo). Do this and your hips can rotate forward as they should. Avoid lifting your heel straight up off the ground (inset photo), which thrusts your hips toward the ball and throws you off balance.

3) RIGHT KNEE Your legs support you during the swing, and they must do their part to allow your hips to shift forward. Imagine a second ball teed up between your knees at address (below left).