First of All – Get a Grip!

The importance of having the correct grip cannot be overemphasized. Having the proper grip will help you generate maximum clubhead speed and arrive at impact with the clubface in the correct position.

To achieve a fundamentally sound grip, try using the following method:

1. Hold the end of the club with the thumb and forefinger of the right hand so the clubface is square to the target.  (Reverse this for lefties)

2. LEFT HAND: Position the club so that it touches the middle joint of the left index finger and the first joint of the little finger.  Close your fingers around the club so the pad (the fleshy part of the palm between the wrist and the base of the little finger) of your left hand is positioned on top of the grip, and the "snuff box' (the hollow at the top joint of the wrist) is to the right side of the club's shaft.  The left thumb should rest slightly to the right of the grips center. 

5. RIGHT HAND: Place your right hand on the shaft by simply covering your left thumb with the lifeline of your right palm and then close your fingers around the shaft, hiding your left thumb from view. The right little finger can then be interlocked, overlapped, or butted against the index finger of the left hand. Whichever preference you choose make sure that the left thumb remains covered by the lifeline of your right hand. The right thumb will rest to the left side of the shaft.

When the grip is completed, the V that is formed between the thumb and forefinger of your left hand should point between your right ear and right shoulder and when looking down you should be able to see the second knuckle of your left hand (without moving your head). The V formed by the thumb and forefinger of the right hand should point in the same direction. 

Grip pressure should be firm enough to prevent the club from twisting in your hands as you swing, but not so tight as to create tension in your arms and wrists.  Too much tension will reduce your wrists ability to hinge effectively and make it more difficult to return the clubface to a square position at impact.

Although this grip may feel strange at first it is essential to developing a powerful and consistent golf swing. With a little practice it will soon become second nature.

Throughout the summer months I will be providing tips that will address basic swing fundamentals and shot-making techniques. If you have specific questions regarding your game I encourage you to email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   I will select a few each week to address in this column.

Kent Tarkleson is a PGA Professional “Specialty Certified” in Instruction, a Titleist Performance Institute Certified Golf Fitness Instructor, Certified Master Club Fitter and PCS Certified Clubmaker. He is the owner of Peak Performance Golf and the Director of the Peak Performance Golf Academy at Saratoga National Golf Club. For more information visit www.peakperformancegolf.net, or call (518) 301-0791.