The Toothpaste Grip

THE TOOTHPASTE GRIP

By Michael Balderstone, PGA Master Professional

Many golfers grip the club too tightly, especially in pressure situations like on the 1st tee, a tight driving hole, a crucial putt or trying to finish off a good score.

If you grip too tightly, your arms and shoulders will be tense and your wrists won’t be able to hinge properly.  This leads to a serious loss of rhythm, power and an inability to control the clubface effectively.

HOLD, DON’T SQUEEZE

For the right amount of pressure, you should imagine that you are holding a tube of toothpaste without its lid on. Any pressure at all will release the toothpaste.

It may initially feel like you will be losing control of the club, especially at the top of the backswing.  Ignore this feeling. Give away control to gain control.  You will automatically grip tighter towards impact so don’t worry about the club flying out of your hands.

Remember – relax your grip – it’s not a white knuckle ride – it’s only Golf.

Michael Balderstone is a PGA Master Professional. He is the founder and Managing Director of Balderstone Sports Institute, which operates South Africa’s premier PGA accredited golf academy.