March 16 -- If there is one thing that all golfers seem to want more of, it is distance.

We constantly see the Tour players hitting balls an incredible amount of distance.

Bubba Watson is known as the longest hitter on the PGA Tour. (WireImage.com)

And, of course, we all want to play like that! But what does it take to create a golf swing that produces more distance?

There are several variables in the distance equation. The first consideration is equipment, which must fit your swing and physical dimensions. Understand that this includes all of your equipment...and not just your driver! You also need to fit your golf equipment to the type of ball you play.

The next consideration is "centerness" of contact. This is a function of swing path. It is most important that your swing path deliver the club at the correct angle and direction. A correct swing path not only assures that the club head functions most effectively, but also has a tremendous impact on the amount of backspin and sidespin that you create.

Now that we have the correct equipment, and our swing is on the desired path, we need to add the most important element for distance -- speed. Not just any speed, but club head acceleration through the impact zone.

Distinguishing when their golf club is accelerated is one of the most obvious differences between long and short hitters. A long-ball striker stores his or her swing energy until the club travels toward the target. This take place when the club is about halfway forward in the downswing.

Conversely, shorter hitters often expend the energy of their swing when the club is changing direction. This wastes much of the angular momentum of the forward swing.

To hit it longer, work to conserve the rotation and energy of your swing until the club is in its forward travel toward the target. Your body must also be in golf condition to be able to develop and counter-balance the speed your swing produces.

The longest ball hitters are physically capable players with the correct swing and fitted equipment!

If you work with a PGA Professional, you can learn more about the subtle nuances in your swing that can dramatically change your golf game by creating faster swing speed and greater distance. To find one near you, visit www.playgolfamerica.com.

At the PGA Learning Center in Port St. Lucie, Fla., we have a Launch Monitor on-site that can instantly measure your swing speed, distance, velocity, trajectory, ball rotation and much more. The Launch Monitor will help us analyze your swing and get you properly fitted for the right equipment. To learn more, visit www.pgavillage.com or call (800) 800-GOLF.

Until next time, here's to better golf!