Is the Grip a Fundamental or a Variable?
/This is an intriguing question, and in my view, the golf grip is a variable. Why? Simply put, every golfer holds the club differently. To illustrate, consider the spectrum of grips used by players on the PGA Tour.
Defining a Bad Grip
A "bad" grip, in my opinion, includes:
Lead Hand Placement: Failing to get the grip under the heel pad of the lead hand.
Over-Rotation: A grip that is excessively turned toward the target side of the body.
Trail Hand Position: A trail hand grip that is turned too far toward the trail side.
Index Finger Placement: Incorrect placement of the trail hand's index finger.
Characteristics of a Good Grip
Lead Hand: The heel pad of the lead hand should rest on top of the grip. Ideally, the “snuff box” of the lead hand should be slightly off-center, towards the trail side. This positioning enhances the downward pressure on the grip and encourages better wrist hinge.
Trail Hand: This is a crucial detail. The trail hand's index finger should apply pressure toward the target, with its knuckle pressed firmly against the aft side of the shaft. This pressure helps maintain control and stability.
“Good Golf Begins with a Good Grip””
Video Insight
In the video below, PGA Senior Tour Coach Michael Manavian and I explore key concepts and match-ups related to the grip. We cover:
Ideal Grip Match-Ups: How to align and balance the lead and trail hand positions.
Trail Hand Classifications: Different ways to position the trail hand.
Wrist Stabilization: Techniques for stabilizing the wrist to create a more consistent and stable clubface.
There are countless variations in wrist angles—assuming a one-size-fits-all approach is too restrictive. However, for those just starting, understanding how to set up the grip and wrist angles correctly is essential for long-term improvement.