Miles Bennett
Golfers have long debated the best way to grip a club. While there is no one right way to play golf, the grip is fundamental to the game, and a different grip can dramatically affect your swing. There are three common grips in golf: the interlocking grip, the overlapping grip, and the ten-finger grip (also known as the baseball grip). The choice between interlocking and overlapping grips depends on the individual player's preferences and physical attributes, such as hand size.
Characteristics of interlocking fingers in golf
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Interlocking grips can be awkward for people with big hands |
| Wrist movement | Interlocking grips can reduce wrist movement, minimizing the power from the snap-through and making big drives harder without a perfect swing |
| Control | Interlocking grips can provide more control for players with small hands, such as children and female golfers |
| Swing | Interlocking grips can help reduce tension on the club, allowing for a more fluid swing |
| Learning | Interlocking grips are recommended for beginners and junior players |
| Consistency | Interlocking grips can help improve consistency |
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What You'll Learn
Interlocking grip vs. baseball grip
There are three main types of grip in golf: the overlap (Vardon) grip, the interlocking grip, and the baseball 10-finger grip. The overlap grip is the most popular, being used by 90% of Tour players and an overwhelming majority of amateur golfers worldwide. With this grip, the pinky of the right hand rests on top of the forefinger of the left hand (for right-handed golfers). The interlocking grip is the second most popular, with over 60% of American golfers using it. With this grip, the pinky of the right hand and the forefinger of the left hand interlock with each other. The baseball grip is the least popular, with only one player in the 2024 PGA Championship field using it. With this grip, both hands are pressed against each other on the grip, with no anchor linking them.
The choice of grip depends on various factors such as hand size, flexibility, and comfort. The overlap grip is better suited for golfers with larger hands, as it can be challenging to interlock the fingers with larger hands. The interlocking grip is more suitable for golfers with smaller hands, as it provides more control and improves overall speed. It is also useful for golfers with flexibility issues or pain in their fingers. The baseball grip is often used by beginners as it is similar to holding a baseball bat and therefore feels more natural.
Some golfers have found success switching between grips. For example, one golfer with gout in their right hand switched to the baseball grip and won the longest drive. Another golfer with arthritis in their right hand and wrist switched to the baseball grip and found it more comfortable. However, it is generally recommended to stick to one grip and perfect it, as switching grips during a round can be detrimental to performance.
Ultimately, there is no single correct way to grip a golf club. The best grip for an individual depends on their hand size, flexibility, comfort, and personal preference. Golfers should experiment with different grips and choose the one that feels most natural and gives them the greatest confidence.
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Pros and cons of interlocking grip
Golf grips are one of the fundamentals of the sport, and a different grip can have a dramatic effect on your swing. While there are basics that you'll need to get right, there's never been a consensus on which is the best grip overall.
The interlocking grip is one of the three most common grips in golf, with the other two being the overlapping grip and the ten-finger grip. With the interlocking grip, the pinky of the trailing hand is placed between the index and middle fingers of the leading hand, instead of just resting on top of the space between them. This offers more connection and control, making it easier for the hands to act together as a single unit. It also reduces tension on the club, allowing for a more fluid swing.
The interlocking grip is ideal for players with smaller hands, such as junior golfers, women, and golfers with arthritis, as it provides a more comfortable and effective way to grip the club. Additionally, it can help golfers who are struggling with a slice.
However, the interlocking grip may not be suitable for players with larger hands, as it can feel cramped and awkward. It can also reduce wrist movement, which may minimize the power from the snap-through and make big drives more difficult. Furthermore, it can amplify existing problems with swing and posture, and it may feel very unnatural for newer players.
Ultimately, the choice between the interlocking, overlapping, or ten-finger grip depends on individual preferences and comfort levels.
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Interlocking grip for small hands
There is no one right way to play golf, and techniques have been evolving over the years. However, choosing the right grip is fundamental to the sport. The interlocking grip is one of the three most common grips in golf, the other two being the overlapping grip and the ten-finger grip.
The interlocking grip is well-suited for golfers with small hands. With smaller hands, the interlocking grip can keep the club in place more securely. It gives you a better lock on the club for increased control. The interlocking grip is also easier to maintain, allowing golfers to focus on the rest of their form. It also prevents hands from slipping, which is especially useful on hot and humid days.
The interlocking grip is also recommended for golfers who are struggling with a slice. It reduces the tension on the club, helping you avoid choking the club and allowing for a more fluid swing.
However, the interlocking grip may not be the best option for golfers with big hands, as it can feel cramped. It can also reduce wrist movement, minimizing the power from the snap-through and making big drives harder without a perfect swing.
Ultimately, the decision between the interlocking and overlapping grip comes down to the individual player. Both grips are proven to work, and the best way to figure out which grip is right for your game is to experiment with both.
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Interlocking grip for beginners
There is no single correct way to play golf, and techniques and strategies have evolved over the years. However, the grip is one of the fundamentals of the sport, and different grips can dramatically impact your swing.
The interlocking grip is one of the three most common grips in golf, along with the overlapping grip and the ten-finger or "baseball" grip. With the interlocking grip, the pinky of the trailing hand is placed between the index and middle fingers of the leading hand, effectively locking the two hands and wrists together. This gives you better control without having to focus on your wrists. It also reduces tension on the club, as the interlock helps you hold it, allowing for a more fluid swing.
The interlocking grip is well-suited for golfers with small hands, such as children and female golfers, who may find it more comfortable than the overlapping grip. It can be challenging for those with larger hands, as it may feel cramped. Additionally, it may reduce wrist movement, making big drives more difficult without a perfect swing.
If you're a beginner, you might want to start with the ten-finger grip, as it is the most natural and easiest to adopt when you're first learning to hold the club. Once your hands get stronger and you develop your skills, you can switch to an interlocking grip if it suits your needs.
Ultimately, the decision between the interlocking and overlapping grip comes down to the individual player. Both grips are used by successful PGA Tour professionals, so it's important to consider your hand size, comfort, and specific needs when choosing the right grip for your game.
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Interlocking grip for experienced players
While there is no one "right way" to play golf, the grip you choose can have a significant impact on your swing and overall performance. Experienced players should consider the interlocking grip as it offers several benefits that can improve their game.
The interlocking grip is created by connecting the pinky finger of the right hand with the forefinger of the left hand (for right-handed golfers). This interlock allows all ten fingers to connect with the club, providing a stable foundation for the swing. This grip is particularly beneficial for golfers with small hands, including junior golfers and female players, as it offers a comfortable and controlled hold on the club. With the interlocking grip, players can achieve a more fluid swing, reducing tension on the club and improving overall speed.
Additionally, the interlocking grip helps lock the hands and wrists together, creating a unified movement. This synchronisation can enhance control and consistency in the swing, making it a popular choice among some of the greatest golfers, including Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Rory McIlroy.
However, it's important to note that the interlocking grip may not suit everyone. Players with larger hands might find it challenging and cramped, and it could reduce wrist movement, impacting power and distance. Therefore, experienced players should assess their hand size, strength, and swing dynamics when considering the interlocking grip.
Ultimately, the choice between the interlocking and overlapping grips is an individual decision. While the interlocking grip can offer improved control and fluidity, it may require a significant adjustment period, especially for those accustomed to the overlapping grip. Experienced players should carefully evaluate their needs and preferences to determine the best grip for their game.
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Frequently asked questions
There are three common types of grips in golf: the interlocking grip, the overlapping grip, and the ten-finger or baseball grip.
The interlocking grip is when the pinky of the trailing hand connects with the forefinger of the leading hand. This grip is suitable for golfers with small hands as it provides more control and is also used by some of the greatest golfers, including Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Rory McIlroy.
The overlapping grip, also known as the Vardon grip, is when the pinky of the trailing hand rests on top of the forefinger of the leading hand. This grip is popular among professionals, such as Phil Mickelson, and is taught by most instructors.
The ten-finger grip, also known as the neutral grip, is when all ten fingers touch the club, similar to how you would hold a baseball bat. This grip is often used by amateurs and children but can be challenging for small hands as it requires more space to grip the club fully.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as different grips work for different people. It depends on factors such as hand size, comfort, and personal preference. Experiment with different grips and choose the one that feels most comfortable and allows you to produce a consistent impact.
