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Fix your game with CNN's golf guru
 Chris Meadows -- 25 years experience as a golf coach. GOLF MAILBAG
RELATEDON CNNI TV
LONDON, England (CNN) -- Golf Mailbag gives you the chance to put your golfing questions to CNN's resident professional, Chris Meadows. Whether it's a putting problem, an etiquette issue or a query about the professional game, Chris can help. E-mail him at golfmailbag@cnn.com. Q: I'm hitting the ball well from the tee with a very slight draw if anything. A realistic 220-30 meters. Ball flight is quite high (a regular flex Taylormade 10.5 driver). I'm looking for a little more distance. Would a stiffer shaft help? Any suggestions? A: Hi Peter, If your average distance is around 230 meters you should be using a stiff shaft without doubt. This will not only give you more distance but more control. The problem you'll experience in using a regular shaft it that you will need to reduce your clubhead speed in order to keep the clubface square through impact. With a stiff shaft the opposite will occur. You will feel more inclined to accelerate through the shot, thus resulting in greater power being delivered to the golf ball. I would also recommend you switch to a 9 degree driver. Modern titanium drivers tend to hit the ball quite high and with the kind of power you are generating I believe a less lofted driver would be more suitable. But most importantly before you purchase a new club -- get down to your local range and try out a variety of clubs with differing shafts and lofts and see for yourself. Q: Hi Chris, When playing social golf I have no problem chipping to the green from around 10 yards, as soon as I play a competition with the same shot I get nervy and either quit on the shot or lift my head before striking the ball and thinning it to the other side of the green. Any suggestions? A: Hi Mike, Short chipping like putting is partly psychological. So the first thing you need to do is visualize a positive outcome before playing any shot. Recall some excellent shots you've played in the past and imagine how it feels. Then step up to the ball and play the shot. You'll be amazed how much more relaxed you'll feel and the results will reflect this. A couple of pointers that you may want to check out when practising. 1. Ensure that you keep your weight on your left foot throughout the stroke (I'm assuming you're a right-handed player). 2. Keep you right hand relaxed throughout the stoke. Q: Hi Chris, Yes, I was born a "lefty" but started playing with right hand clubs -- for over 15 years now. I think it's too late for me to switch back to my natural stronger side -- as I have passed 55! Any advice for such a "square peg in a round hole"? Thanks. A: Hi Somchai, This is not uncommon. I have to say just because you're 55 doesn't make any difference -- you would still improve very quickly, but if you don't want to switch back I understand, so here are some pointers. 1. Imagine you're hitting backhand topspin shots (like in tennis) with your left hand. Most left handers I've taught playing the wrong way around tend to fade or slice their shots due to poor release. By imagining the top spinning shot you'll find that you'll get more hand action through the ball, resulting in greater clubhead speed and distance. 2. Practice shots with your right hand only. Beginning with half swings again imagining a draw shot. Once again this will help with release. 3. Strengthen your right hand and wrist. Squeeze a squash ball 100 times a day. You'll be amazed what an effect this will have in packing more power and better timing into your game. 
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