by David Musial, PGA
As I work with golfers on their game, one of the first things that we assess is the positioning of the hands on the golf club.
What is the best grip for the golfer? Well, golfers come in all sizes and shapes. Some players have small hands and some larger hands. Some players have short, compact fingers and some have long, slender fingers. These different characteristics mean one thing, there is not one grip type for every golfer.
The overlap grip or the interlock grip are types that I recommend to players. Generally, a player with small hands (Jack Nicklaus) will have a more comfortable feel in his fingers with the interlock grip. Tiger Woods emulated the great Nicklaus, and he employs the interlock grip as well. Players with larger hands many times feel more comfortable with the overlap grip. These players feel that they can turn the ball over (draw) more easily with the overlapping grip. These are general assessments, and not in all cases.
This leads us to the conclusion that many golfers could use either the interlock or overlap, and hit consistent shots with one or the other. I would like to see my students using one or the other, and I will usually recommend the interlock grip to most players. If after trying this method, success is not reached or the student is uncomfortable with it– we will try the overlapping style. Because we do not all have the same size hands and fingers, there is not one grip for all players. The one that fits best and most comfortable in our hands is the right one for the golfer. Generally, we can make this determination in the first practice session.
Typically, only small junior golfers or a golfer with severe arthritis or physical limitations will use the baseball or “ten-finger” grip. When the junior golfer’s fingers develop, typical between ages 8 and 12, I will encourage them to make the move to an interlock grip. This will help in keeping the clubface more stable through impact. This is why PGA and LPGA tour players use the interlock and overlap, and not the “ten-finger” method. I encourage you to work with your local PGA Professional, to help you find the best grip method for you. It will help you to keep the clubface square, hit more consistent shots and become a better player.
To set up a lesson with David Musial, email musialgolf@yahoo.com for open appointment times at GlenLakes Golf Club, Foley.
RIP Tim Wakefield
Popular knuckleball pitcher Tim Wakefield recently passed away after a battle with cancer. Wakefield pitched in the MLB for 20 seasons, the final 17 for the Boston Red Sox. He was a member of the 2004 and 2007 World Series winning teams and is in Boston Red Sox Hall...
Product Review: MagnetOwl
In the world of golf accessories, the MagnetOwl is a excellent innovation designed to enhance the convenience and performance of golfers across all skill levels. This magnetic golf towel offers a range of features that make it a valuable addition to your golfing...
Product Review: LAB Golf’s Link.1
L.A.B Golf is really good at helping golfers make more putts. They make the best putters on the market. But their putters have been known as much for their unusual looks as they have been for the strokes they save. That challenge has been met with the introduction of...
Cherokee Ridge CC To Host ALFA Insurance Rocket City $10K Pro-Am Scramble
Cherokee Ridge Country Club, one of the premier golf courses in North Alabama presents the ALFA Insurance Rocket City $10K Pro-Am Scramble. The event will be held Saturday September 16th, 2023, and will showcase 30 teams from all over the southeast. Teams will compete...
Exciting Renovations Unveiled at RTJ’s Ross Bridge
In a highly anticipated announcement, Alabama's renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is set to unveil a stunning transformation at RTJ Ross Bridge on October 13, 2023. The extensive renovation project promises an enhanced golfing experience, with a range of...
Cherokee Ridge: A Can’t Miss Golf Experience in North Alabama
Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, Cherokee Ridge Country Club showcases a fantastic layout and terrific playing conditions. Located in Union Grove, AL, Cherokee Ridge is approximately 30 minutes south of Huntsville. The course...
GOLFERS FIND MAGNIFICENT MOUNTAIN GOLF IN NORTH GEORGIA
The best mountain golf in the southern part of the Appalachian Mountains is not restricted to North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The state which is often overlooked is the Peach State, Georgia. Many golfers are pleasantly surprised to discover that three of...
The Club at Diamondhead: 36 Holes of Spectacular Golf on the Mississippi Gulf Coast
The Club at Diamondhead offers 36 holes of spectacular golf on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Take your pick of the Pine or Cardinal courses, or better yet, play them both! Located conveniently between New Orleans and Gulfport/Biloxi at Exit 16 of I-10, Diamondhead is...
Introducing Zerofit Baselayer Technology
It is tough to get excited about playing golf when the thermometer is telling you to stay in your warm, cozy bed. Sure, you could tee it up with four layers and stay relatively warm, but your swing will be restricted from all that clothing. Thanks to the tried and...
PGA Tour Policy Board Member Resigns Citing Concerns About Deal With The PIF
Just over one month ago, the PGA Tour sent shockwaves through the worldwide golf community with the announcement that it would enter into a formal business relationship Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). On Sunday, the tour suffered its first defection...
Indian Pines Golf Course to Reopen in November as Pines Crossing After Renovation
Indian Pines Golf Course is currently undergoing a $5.7 million renovation project and is scheduled to be ready for play this fall. The course will feature a completely new layout, and a new name – Pines Crossing. The course closed last fall to make way for the...
Pursell Farms Founders Pub Offers Amazing Food & Southern Hospitality
The Founders Pub at Pursell Farms is where history and hospitality come together to create a truly unique experience. Located in what was once office space, prior to the construction of the Inn, the Founders Pub honors James T. Pursell, known as Mr. Jimmy, and his...
