Miles Bennett
Golfing techniques and strategies have evolved over the years, and while there are basics that need to be mastered, nothing is set in stone. One of the fundamentals of the sport is having a good grip, and there are three common grips in golf: the ten-finger grip, the interlocking grip, and the overlapping grip. The ten-finger grip, also known as the baseball grip, is the most basic grip and is commonly used by beginners. The interlocking grip, made popular by Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, is where the pinky finger of the right hand and the forefinger of the left hand connect and interlock with each other. The overlapping grip, also known as the Vardon grip, is where the pinky from the right hand rests on the forefinger of the left hand.
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The interlocking grip
However, the interlocking grip is not without its drawbacks. It can be awkward for players with big hands and reduce wrist movement, minimizing the power from the snap-through and making big drives harder without a perfect swing. Additionally, it can amplify existing problems with swing and posture, as it relies more on the whole body for power and accuracy.
Ultimately, the choice between the interlocking grip and other grips, such as the overlapping grip or the ten-finger "baseball" grip, comes down to personal preference and what works best for the individual player.
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The overlapping grip
Golf grip is one of the fundamentals of the sport, and a different grip can have a dramatic effect on your swing. There is no consensus on which grip is the best, and techniques and strategies have been constantly evolving over the years.
To use the overlapping grip, begin with the ten-finger grip, but lift the pinky of the trailing hand (right hand for right-handed golfers) and rest it in the groove between the index and middle finger of the leading hand (left hand). The thumb of the leading hand should still be pointing down the club, and the trailing hand should be moved closer to the leading hand so that there is no gap between them.
While the overlapping grip is the most common, some of the best players in the sport, like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, use the interlocking grip. This grip can give players more control over the club and improve overall speed. However, switching between grips throughout a round is not encouraged.
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The 10-finger grip
- Place your non-dominant hand (the leading hand) on the grip under the club at the end closest to the head.
- With your dominant hand (the trailing hand), wrap your fingers above the other hand.
- Your non-dominant thumb should be in a "thumbs-up" position, pointing towards the head of the club.
- The dominant hand's little finger should touch the side of the non-dominant hand's index finger.
- Position your dominant thumb slightly pointing to the left, and your non-dominant thumb slightly to the right.
- There should be no gap between your hands, and the first knuckles of the leading hand should line up with the second knuckles of the trailing hand.
However, there are also some disadvantages to this grip. The 10-finger grip offers limited control over the club, which can make it difficult to achieve accurate ball placement. It can also cause excessive spin and increase the chance of a slice or draw. Additionally, it may interrupt the swing sequence by encouraging beginners to initiate the right hand too early, throwing off shot timing.
While it may not be the best choice for experienced golfers, the 10-finger grip can be a great place to start for beginners due to its simplicity and the increased power it provides. As golfers become more advanced, they may experiment with different grips, such as the overlapping grip, to find the one that suits their biomechanics and playing style.
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Grip pressure
The interlocking grip, popularised by golfing greats such as Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, involves connecting the lifeline of the right palm to the left thumb. This is achieved by straightening the left index finger and interlocking it with the right pinkie, with the remaining fingers of the right hand wrapped around the grip. While this style offers a solid grip for some, it can also lead to issues with wrist hinge and release if the handle sits too deep in the right palm.
The overlapping grip, also known as the Vardon grip, is the choice of an estimated 90% of professional golfers. This grip style does not involve interlocking fingers. Instead, the right pinky rests on the left forefinger or between the left index and middle fingers, with the hands joined but not interlocked. The overlapping grip provides a strong grip and can help produce consistent results, making it a popular choice among professionals.
The ten-finger grip, also known as the baseball or neutral grip, is a basic grip where all ten fingers touch the club. This grip is commonly used by amateurs as it feels natural and comfortable, resembling the way one would hold a baseball bat. However, it may limit the ability to work the ball and shape shots, which could hinder performance at higher levels of play.
Ultimately, the choice of grip style and grip pressure depends on individual factors such as hand size, comfort, and control. While certain grip styles may be preferred by professionals, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and golfers should experiment to find the grip that suits their unique needs and helps them achieve consistent results on the course.
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Hand size
The size of a golfer's hands is a key factor in determining the grip they should use. While there is no one right way to play golf, and techniques are constantly evolving, the grip is fundamental to the game.
The three standard grips are the overlapping grip (Vardon), the 10-finger grip, and the interlocking grip. The 10-finger grip, also known as the neutral or baseball grip, is the most basic grip. All ten fingers touch the club, and it is the most natural way to hold the club, especially for beginners. It is popular with golfers with smaller hands or those with large fingers. However, it is the least popular of the three grips, possibly because it is not considered a "proper" grip.
The interlocking grip is a good option for golfers with larger hands who feel cramped when interlocking their fingers. It can also help golfers who struggle with slicing the ball. However, it can cause players to grip the club too hard and may decrease swing speed.
The overlapping grip is recommended for golfers with small hands who need more control over the club. It allows for a lighter grip pressure and a natural rotation of the hands and forearms. However, it may feel awkward and loose for golfers with larger hands.
Ultimately, the grip a golfer chooses depends on their hand size, tendency to grip the club too hard, and their performance, feel, and personal preference.
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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 grip (also known as the baseball grip).
The interlocking grip is when the pinky finger of the right hand and the forefinger of the left hand connect and interlock with each other. This grip is popularised by Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.
The interlocking grip can help golfers with small hands to have more control over the club. It is also good for those who are struggling with a slice. However, it can be difficult to get the handle too deep in your right palm, which can limit wrist hinge and release.
