Pro Golf Tips - The Grip

What does a good grip look like?

When you see a good grip, the golfer's hands look unified, like they are moulded on the club.

Does one hand dominate?

Another feature of a solid grip is that the golfer's hands are positioned on the club in such a way that either hand does not look as if it could ever dominate the other.

Are strength and flexibility important?

Yes they are, but you do not need to be overly muscular to hold the club securely if you have a good grip of it. Any exercise that strengthens and adds flexibility to your hands, wrists and arms must help you.

Slices and Hooks?

If you have one consistent shape to the flight of the ball, the first thing to do is to check your grip.

Why is it hard to change?

Even the most subtle change in a grip that has been taken or used for a long time can feel awkward. Patience is required if you set about re-positioning either one or both hands. The Griperfect gloves will help you.

Overlap or Interlock?

Comfort and security should both be considered. How the club fits into your hands and the results you get will decide which grip is right for you.

What if I don't play for a while?

When golfers return to the game after a break, they may find their grip has changed. Take two minutes per day when you are not playing regularly to grip a club. This is a sensible way of maintaining a good grip.

Can I chip with the reverse hand grip?

You can. Try it if you want to get a feeling for how firm your wrists should be when you play this shot.

Do I change my grip while playing bunker shots?

No, you don't, but you may need a firmer hold of the club to counter the effects of hitting the sand.

My left wrist breaks down when I chip. Any advice?

Try the reverse hand grip mentioned above or position your hand further to the left so that your wrist joint is to the left of the club. You can also use your putting grip to chip.

How can I hit the ball higher?

For you woods or irons, extend the forefinger of your right hand and hook it round the grip. For short shots up to 30 metres, rotate both hands toward your target a little.

How do I check my grip?

Take a grip of your 5 iron and swing the club back and through to your finish position. Has the club moved in your hands at any stage of your swing? If it has, you need to use your Griperfect Gloves to check your grip.

Why the variety of putting grips?

The key to holing putts is to stroke the ball along the line you have chosen at the right speed. Any number of grips can do this for you so if you are not happy with your putting, try a different grip.

Final comment

There are very few golfers who play good golf with a poor grip but there are many accomplished golfers playing great golf with great grips. For some golfers, their grip is their handicap. They will never improve because of it.