The Proper Grip – A Simple Way to Improvement
By Mike Sullivan
Pre-swing fundamentals are the easiest adjustments to make and often times get the best results. The way a player grips his or her club has a direct impact on their club face angle at impact, or in simpler terms, “Your grip is probably a major factor why you hook or slice.”
Click here to view a video about adjusting your grip to correct a slice
A good grip serves 3 purposes:
- Hinge the club correctly
- Support the club in the backswing
- Control the clubface at impact
Example of a Proper Grip
The image to the left shows an example of a good fundamental grip. The grip includes the following characteristics:
- The player can see 2-3 knuckles on his left hand while addressing the ball.
- The club is resting more in the fingers than in the palms.
- The right thumb is resting along the left-center of the club shaft.
Training Aids to the Rescue!
A great way to improve your grip is using a training grip. I advise my students to install a training grip on a cut-off shaft so they can practice their grip at home or the office.
The total cost of a training grip and shaft are usually under $20, you can make your new training aid at home, or have Tom Miller, our resident club builder make one for you.
If you have any questions about your grip or any other golf issues you may have, please contact me at mike@sullivangolf.net.
Mike Sullivan is the Director of Instruction at The Mike Sullivan Golf School, located at 401 Par Golf in Raleigh, NC.