A proper golf swing begins with the correct grip. Though many golfers (both good and bad) have adapted a particular golf grip that matches their playing style, it is amazing how many golfers do not understand the correct mechanics of the golf grip and how both a proper and improper grip can affect the outcome of your golf shots.
Based on input and expertise from well-respected PGA teaching pros, here is a step-by-step checklist of proper golf grip basics for right-handed golfers. Note that these instructions are for a “neutral golf grip.”
Left Hand
- Place the golf grip across the base of the little finger and just above the first joint of the index finger.
- Apply pressure to the golf grip with the last 3 fingers of the left hand.
- Fold your thumb and pad of your left hand over the golf grip, ensuring the pad of your left hand palm is on top of the grip
- Place your left-hand thumb just right of the center of the shaft.
Tips from Professional Left-Handed Golf Players
Left-handed golfers have their own set of rules to follow when teeing off, and there are a few key things to keep in mind.
1. Keep your clubface square to the ball:
When teeing off from the left side of the course, your clubface should be square to the ball so that you can hit it straight. If your clubface is tilted to one side or the other, it will cause you trouble hitting the ball squarely.
2. Aim high:
Left-handed golfers have to aim high when hitting shots for two reasons: because we’re looking at our right hand instead of down at the ball, and because we’re aiming towards the hole on our right instead of centering our shot on the green.
3. Use a targeting motion:
Left-handed golfers should use a targeting motion when swinging their clubs so that they hit the ball with more accuracy and power. This means that you’ll want to cock your wrist and keep your elbow close to your body as you swing.
4. Use an offset swing:
One way left-handed golfers can increase their accuracy while swinging is by using an offset swing. This means that you’ll start your backswing closer to the ground than normal, then raise your club up into position before striking the ball.
Right Hand
- Keeping your left hand properly placed on the golf grip, place the golf grip across the base of the fingers of the right hand.
- Wrap your right-hand fingers around the underside of the golf grip.
- Fold lifeline of the right hand over the left thumb.
- Right-hand pressure should be applied by the middle 2 fingers.
Tips from Professional Right-Handed Golf Players
1. Get A Good Grip:
The first and most important step in playing better right-handed is to get a good grip on the club. Make sure your hand is positioned correctly over the clubface and press down firmly with your fingers. This will ensure consistent contact with the ball and help you swing accurately.
2. Be Patient:
It can be difficult to be patient when playing right-handed, but it’s essential if you want to improve your game. Try to avoid getting frustrated when playing, as this will only hinder your performance. Instead, take things one swing at a time and focus on perfecting your technique.
3. Practice Your Swing Often:
The best way to learn how to play better right-handedly is by practicing regularly. Do different drills that challenge your technique, and make sure to keep practicing even after you achieve success on the golf course. This will help you continue learning and improve your game year-round.
Key Checkpoints of Proper Golf Grip
- Palms should always face each other when applied to the golf grip.
- When looking down at the grip, the knuckles of the left-hand forefinger and middle finger should be visible while the creases of thumbs and forefingers point between the right side of the face and right shoulder.
- Throughout the golf swing, the hands should work together as one unit with neither dominating the other.
When to Alter Your Golf Grip
- Use a “neutral golf grip” for the majority of your shots. A neutral golf grip results in a square clubface at impact.
- For “fade” shots where you want to curve the golf ball slightly from left to right around an obstacle, use a “weak” golf grip by rotating your hands to the left on the golf grip which opens your clubface.
- For “draw” shots where you want to curve the golf ball slightly from right to left around an obstacle, use a “strong” golf grip by rotating your hands to the right on the golf grip which closes your clubface.
FAQs
1. How can I improve my grip?
Golfers can improve their grip by using a golf club grip trainer. This device helps the golfer to better understand how to grip the club and helps them practice playing with a better grip.
2. What type of club should I buy for beginners?
For beginners, it is recommended to buy a shorter club. Shorter clubs provide more forgiving feedback and are easier to control.
3. Can you use the same grip for the driver and irons?
Generally no, each club has a specific grip that is designed specifically for that club. There are some exceptions to this rule, like a hybrid club which may have a different grip for the driver and irons. However, most golfers will find that their grip for the driver and irons will be quite different. A good tip is to try out different grips to find what feels best.
4. Where should you grip a golf club?
Most golfers should grip the club slightly on the top end with their thumbs pointed towards the ball and their fingers pointing away from them.
5. Should you grip a golf club tightly?
Golfers typically grip the club a little tighter than is necessary. You don’t want to apply so much pressure that you cause discomfort or lasting damage. A good grip should be firm, but not too tight.
Final Words
Whether you are left-handed or right-handed, there is a way to grip your golf club that will ensure accuracy and comfort while playing. Experiment with different grips until you find one that feels the best for you. Remember to keep your hands relaxed and use your wrists properly; overuse of the muscles in your hands can lead to injury.