Does TheStack swing speed training program really work? We will find out

What would some extra yards mean to your game? For some players, more yards can make a par-5 more accessible the first time around. Or maybe it allows you to hit the iron short to the green on a par-4, creating more birdie opportunities. Every player can enjoy the benefits of getting longer off the tee, but really to gain those yard benefits are the hard part. This is where TheStack comes into play.

TheStack is billed as a swing speed coach. Co-founded by biomechanist Dr. Said MacKenzie and Ping engineer Marty Jertson, TheStack system helps golfers increase their swing speed and distance with a training program tailored to your personal level.

TheStack Swing Speed ​​Trainer (Hardware + App Bundle)

$314 (was $349)

TheStack Hardware 5 stacked Stack weights enable 30 weight combinations between 0g and 300g Dual purpose weight case / phone stand Highly engineered training club – Senior (41.5″) or Junior (38.5″) version (see Fitting Juniors) Speed ​​radar not included. View all compatible devices here. We recommend PRGR TheStack App Training for 2 years included, available only on iOS. Powerful speed training designed by Dr. Sasho MacKenzie Guided workout timer for reps, sets, and rest intervals Custom speed metrics to track your gains Hands-free data entry using voice input technology Includes access Stacking (Beta) – Learn more Includes Single User License – Enables training and tracking for potential local users of five (ie family) under one login. Multi-User License License sold separately. Access TheStack App from the App Store when your order arrives. Requires iOS 15.0 or later.

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Matt Fitzpatrick became the first major player to credit TheStack for his major distance gains when he cited his training after winning the US Open at The Country Club in 2022.

“I was [using TheStack] religious week after week,” he said. “It's like going to the gym. It's like a training program. I'll be honest, it worked wonders.”

As Fitzpatrick showed off his newfound abilities with long bombs, TheStack only grew in popularity, and I was interested in testing how the system could work. Turns out I'm married to a guinea pig. My husband, Paul, is a club professional with a current handicap index of +0.4. As his index shows, his overall offense game is very good, but he always feels that he is not getting anything from his driver. At 6'3″ and 220 lbs., Paul's fellow pros are often surprised that he doesn't consistently launch 300+ yards with the driver. Instead, Paul's carry distance is closer to 240 yards, which, depending on the roll, can stretch to 270 under the right conditions. But still – for a competitive player like Paul, 10 yards or more off the tee can be very meaningful. In local events, he is often outplayed by his peers, and attempts to re-jig his swing to gain more yards result in erratic and unwanted play. So the thought of keeping the swing he has, training with TheStack, and adding yards is still very tempting.

TheStack Radar Launch Monitor

$289

Bluetooth Radar for Stack Training The Stack Radar is a great multi-purpose Bluetooth radar that connects directly to TheStack App for a seamless training experience. Our PGA and LPGA Tour players love TheStack radar for its portability and size. Hold swing speed without hitting the ball – perfect for Stack speed training! Place the Stack behind you on the range or course to measure Ball Speed ​​Measurements: Swing Speed ​​and Ball Speed. Calculates average Carry Distance and Smash Factor. It works well inside and out. Bluetooth connectivity exclusive to TheStack App Set the speed limit at 25, 35, 45, or 55 mph! Avoid false triggers due to rapid reversals. Stack Radar includes an amazing protective bag for storage in your golf bag and on the go. Are you a current stack looking to upgrade? Check out our Launch Monitor app here.

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Paul is also an excellent test subject for TheStack because he already uses fully customized equipment and has regular access to TrackMan, so he is very familiar with his personal stats in areas such as spin, ball speed and more. In short, whatever he gains it does The stack on TheStack will appear on the device and training only.

“With my launch angle and spin rate, if I had 10 or 15 mph more, the ball would have stayed in the air longer,” Paul said. “So this is a test to see if I can gain speed.”

Part of the appeal of TheStack is that it requires low-key commitment. When the parts arrived – TheStack stick itself, the weights, and the radar launch monitor – all Paul had to do was download the app and connect the radar device to his iPhone via Bluetooth. Then, it was time to complete the basic session, which ultimately determined his entire training plan.

The first time starts by alternating with your current player driver without hitting the ball. (That reminds me of another important note: no training is required to hit the ball, only swing! So you can complete these sessions indoors or outdoors.) The app will walk you through each part of the basic session and tell you what weights to use and how many swings to take. Data is automatically recorded in the application. For Paul, the whole time took less than 15 minutes to skate.

Paul's first speed reading was 87 mph, so that will be a number we will continue to look to improve on as his training program continues. His current schedule consists of skating sessions about every two to three days. The app reminds you when you have timed up and when to rest. Paul expects his speed skating journey to last a year – or maybe longer! I plan to document his progress here as he goes through the “stages” of the app, checking in every few months.

Paul feels positive about the process so far, especially after completing his first training session. According to the app, his swing speed has already increased to 92 from 87 – quite a jump! Can he reach 100 by the end of the year? Stay tuned!

Golf.com Editor

As a four-year member of Columbia's first varsity golf class, Jessica knows how to outrun everyone on the golf course. He can pass them through the office, too, where he is primarily responsible for producing both print and online features, and overseeing major special projects, such as GOLF's first Style Issue, which began in February 2018. His first interview series, “A Round With,” released in November 2015, and appeared in both magazine and video form on GOLF.com.