The great Ben Hogan asserted that the grip is the most essential component of the golf swing. The grip provides the only link between the golf ball and the body, and acts as the keystone to the entire swing. Subtle differences in grip position and pressure can result in drastic changes in the flight of the golf ball, Hogan says.
Grip Styles
The most common grip style, according to Hogan, is the Vardon Grip, named after British golfer and teaching professional, Harry Vardon. This grip consists of placing the right palm over the left thumb and overlapping the right pinky over the left index finger. A variation of this grip, the interlock, provides a stronger connection between the right and left hands and is preferred by Tiger Woods. This grip is characterized by and interlocking of the right pinky and left index finger.
Grip Pressure
Grip pressure also influences the path of the golf ball. A tighter grip tenses the arms and shoulders, restricting the ability to rotate through the golf swing. Further, too loose of a grip can cause the club to twist in the hands, resulting in errant shots. PGA teaching professional Mitchell Spearman suggests holding the club as if squeezing a tube of toothpaste. The hands should be just tight enough to squeeze paste out of the tip.
Practicing Grip
The grip should be practiced daily, according to Hogan. You should rehearse placing the left hand on the club, followed by the right hand, and waggling the club back and forth to promote feel. A mirror is an excellent way to check grip position and make corrections, Spearman asserts. Hogan suggested practicing the grip for at least 10 minutes each day.
Putting Grips
Grip style can influence performance on the putting green as well. The putting stroke should act in a pendulum-like manner, according to Spearman. The role of the grip in the putting stroke is to minimize excessive bending of the wrists. Too tense of a grip will result in jerky, offline putting. The putting grip should be fairly loose to allow the shoulders to move back and forth freely.
Grip Types
Grips come in different sizes and materials. Some grips are thinner, which allow the club to rest more toward the fingers. Larger grips rest in the palms and provide more of a cushion upon impact. Some grips are also softer and more shock-absorbent. Grip types are mostly a matter of personal preference and don't necessarily impact the shot. When selecting grip types, the club should feel comfortable in the hands and instill a feeling of confidence.
References
- "Five Lessons: the Modern Fundamentals of Golf"; Ben Hogan; 1957
- "How I Play Golf"; Tiger Woods; 2001
- "A.I.M. of Golf"; Mitchell Spearman; 2004
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