Grip pressure is one of the most overlooked aspects of a golfer’s swing, yet it plays a critical role in shot consistency and overall performance. Whether you’re teeing off or making a delicate putt, the way you hold the club can make a huge difference.
Practice Strategies
- Make 5 swings with a club of your choice. Observe your grip pressure throughout your swing on a scale from 1 to 5 (1 = low pressure; 5 = high pressure). What is your ideal grip pressure?
- Make 5 swings. Does your grip pressure remain constant, or does it change? If it changes, where in your swing does it change?
- Play with different grip pressures. Start with a “5” grip pressure (high tension). Gradually reduce tension with each successive shot…4, 3, 2, and finally 1. This exercise is especially helpful for those players who struggle with excess grip pressure.
- Imagine your club is a tube of toothpaste with the cap off. Hold the tube with enough tension to keep someone from pulling it out of your hands, but don’t squeeze any toothpaste out of the tube.
Fine-tuning your grip pressure is a small but powerful adjustment that can lead to more consistent and controlled shots. Experiment with it during practice to discover what works best for your game.
Curious to learn more? Register for the 2025 BirdieBound Special Topic Clinics.
Saturday, April 19 – Full Swing & Chipping 9:00-11:00
Saturday, April 26 – Full Swing & Bunker Play 9:00-11:00
Saturday, May 3 – Full Swing & Mental Skills 9:00-11:00