7 Step Guide to Holding a Golf Club Correctly
In a Golf Pride study, 82% of respondents said that having a fresh grip on their golf club made them feel more secure with their swing. Of course, you can replace the grips on your clubs all you want, but if you don't know how to properly hold a golf club, you're out of luck.
A proper grip can be the difference between a successful swing and a frustrating day on the course.
Today we're taking a closer look into a simple 7-step guide that will help you master your grip and enhance your overall golfing skills, leading to better accuracy and consistency.
How To Properly Hold a Golf Club
The overlapping grip, also known as the Vardon grip, is the most commonly used by professional golfers. In this grip, the pinky finger of your trailing hand (right hand for right-handed golfers) overlaps the index finger of your lead hand. It helps with control and stability, making it a solid choice for those with medium to large hands.
The Interlocking Grip
The interlocking grip is popular among golfers with smaller hands or those who prefer a more connected feeling between their hands. The pinky finger of your trailing hand interlocks with the index finger of your lead hand. It can help create a strong connection between your hands, which can improve control during your swing.
Golf Grip Tips: Proper Hand Placement on the Club
For right-handed golfers, your left hand is the lead hand, and it should be placed first. Start by holding the club in your left hand with the clubface square to the target.
Your left hand should grip the club so that the handle runs diagonally across your palm, from the base of your pinky to just below your index finger. When you close your hand, your thumb should point down the shaft, and a "V" shape should form between your thumb and index finger. This "V" should point towards your right shoulder.
Next, position your right hand so it complements the left. The right hand should grip the club just below the left hand, with the thumb of your left hand fitting snugly into the lifeline of your right hand. Your right thumb should rest slightly to the left of center on the shaft.
Positioning the Right Hand
Once your left hand is correctly placed on the club, it's time to focus on your right hand. The right hand should naturally complement the left, providing balance and control without overpowering the grip.
Start by placing the palm of your right hand against the side of the club, aligning your right thumb with the left thumb on the shaft. The V-shape formed between your right thumb and index finger should also point toward your right shoulder, matching the alignment of your left hand.
It's important that your grip feels comfortable and secure, but not too tight. A firm yet relaxed grip helps maintain control during the swing without restricting movement.
Check Your Grip Pressure
The way you hold the club isn't just about where your hands go. It's about how tightly or loosely you hold the club.
Grip pressure plays a big role in your swing. If you grip too tightly, you can create tension in your arms and shoulders, which can restrict your movement and lead to poor shots. On the other hand, a grip that's too loose can cause you to lose control of the club during the swing.
A good rule of thumb is to hold the club as if you're holding a tube of toothpaste. You want to grip it firmly enough to keep it steady, but not so tight that you'd squeeze out the paste.
Ensure Proper Wrist Positioning
Your wrists play a key role in how you control the club during your swing. If your wrists are not correctly aligned, it can lead to inconsistent results and mis-hits.
Start by keeping your wrists firm but flexible. Your left wrist should be flat at the top of the backswing, and your right wrist should be slightly bent. The alignment allows you to create the right angle between the club and your forearms, which is essential for generating power.
During the downswing, focus on maintaining that angle as long as possible before releasing the club. This delayed release, often referred to as "lag," is where much of your power comes from.
It's also important to avoid any excessive wrist movement during your swing. Too much wrist action can lead to slices, hooks, or other errant shots.
Proper Golf Stance: Align Your Body with the Club
Your body alignment plays a significant role in how effectively you can swing the club. Begin by positioning your feet shoulder-width apart.
This stance provides a solid base and helps you maintain balance throughout your swing. Your shoulders, hips, and feet should all be aligned parallel to your target line.
As you set up to the ball, make sure that your body is positioned so that your shoulders are square to the target. It means your shoulders should be aligned with the intended path of the ball.
If your shoulders are open or closed, it can lead to mishits or slices. Your head should be steady, with your eyes focused on the ball.
Practice and Adjust Your Grip
Once you've established a solid grip, practice is key to making it feel natural. Repetition helps build muscle memory, so the correct grip becomes second nature.
Start by practicing your grip in front of a mirror to check that your hands are positioned correctly. Regular practice with your chosen grip will lead to better control and consistency in your swing.
How To Hold a Golf Club Correctly
Understanding how to properly hold a golf club can make all the difference in your game. Practice regularly, and your grip will become second nature, helping you achieve better results every round
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