Bob Green, Head Pro., Tedesco CC
bgreen@tedescocc.org
Most of the poor mechanics I see during the swing are caused by problems that exist before the club begins to move.
Poor fundamentals in the address position make it very difficult to attain fundamentally sound positions throughout the swing, resulting in poor shots.
A good grip is extremely important. It is your only contact with the club and has a great deal to do with the club face position at impact.
A good place to start is with a neutral grip position.
NEUTRAL GRIP POSITION
The heel pad of the left hand must be on top of the grip with the left thumb extending down the grip slightly to the right of the center line of the grip. This secures the club in the left hand between the fingers and the heel pad.
HEEL PAD OF THE LEFT HAND MUST BE ON TOP OF THE GRIP
The right palm faces the left palm. The left thumb fits between the right hand thumb and heel pad, and follows the life line of the right palm.
The left thumb should be completely covered by the right hand and not be visible when you look at the grip. The right index finger and thumb should form a V in order to support the shaft at the top of the backswing.
After addressing the ball, glance down to your left hand grip. You should see the big knuckle of your index finger and the top of the next knuckle.
Grip pressure should be light. On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 squeezing as hard as possible, you should be at about a 2. Secure enough to keep the club from coming out of your hands but not so firm as to create tension and prohibit freedom of motion.
GRIP PRESSURE SHOULD BE LIGHT
Consult with a PGA professional if you think your grip may be part of your ball striking problems.
Is there a part of your game that is driving you nuts?
Ask the North Shore Golf magazine pro for help at northshoregolfmagazine.com
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