According to Ben Hogan, the grip is the cornerstone of the rest of the golf swing. The hands provide the only link between the the golfer's body and the club, so the grip affects every element of the shot, including: club-face angle, path, and ball spin. Several grip styles have emerged over the years, however the most effective grip still remains the classic "Vardon Grip." The Vardon Grip was developed by Harry Vardon, a British professional in the early 20th century and six-time winner of the British Open.
Assuming the Correct Grip
PGA teaching professional Mitchell Spearman offers four steps for assuming the correct grip. The club should first be held at arm's length in front of the body with the right hand on the shaft just below the lower end of the grip. Second, the left hand should be placed on the grip with the left thumb pointing just to the right of the center of the grip. Third, the right hand is placed on top of the left, with the lifeline of the right palm directly over the left thumb. Finally, the right hand should wrap around the left. The little finger of the right hand can rest either slightly on top of the left forefinger, or hook underneath it.
Grip Pressure
The pressure placed on the grip should be neither too tight nor too loose. Grip pressure should be tight enough so that the club does not slip at any point in the swing, yet loose enough so that the wrists can hinge freely. According to Spearman, one simple cue for assuming appropriate grip pressure is to imagine squeezing a tube of toothpaste. The grip should be just firm enough so that the toothpaste gently streams out the tip.
The Role of Each Hand
In his book, "How I Play Golf," Tiger Woods indicates that the left hand serves to keep a firm grasp on the grip and to minimize excessive twisting, while the right hand regulates the speed of the club-head. Another helpful cue is to imagine that the left hand is responsible for leading the backswing, while the right hand is responsible for directing the downswing.
Practicing the Grip
According to Hogan, the grip should be practiced for at least thirty minutes daily. Hogan recommends assuming and reassuming the grip several times throughout the day until the correct grip becomes deeply ingrained in the golfer's muscle memory. According to Spearman, a mirror is a highly effective tool for checking the correct position of the grip.
Summary
The grip is the foundation for the rest of the golf swing. The most effective and commonly used grip is the "Vardon Grip." Grip pressure should be neither too firm nor too light, as if gently squeezing a tube of toothpaste. The left hand is responsible for securing a firm grasp on the club, while the right serves to regulate club-head speed. The grip should be practiced at least as much as the full swing.
References
- "Five Lessons: the Modern Fundamentals of Golf"; Ben Hogan; 1957
- "A.I.M. of Golf"; Mitchell Spearman; 2004
- "How I Play Golf"; Tiger Woods; 2001
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