In the previous post, we covered Beginner Golf Swing Mistakes and How to Fix Them, but now let’s focus on putting. When you’re on the green, aiming for that hole, your grip on the putter can make all the difference. A solid grip is the first step to a consistent and successful putt. Many beginners struggle with grip pressure and hand placement, which affects accuracy. So, let’s break down the steps to help you get it just right and improve your short game.
Why the Right Grip Matters
The grip you use affects the accuracy, control, and consistency of your putting. A poor grip can lead to inaccurate putts, missed chances, and even frustration. But don’t worry, once you master the proper grip, you’ll feel the difference in your game.
The Basics of Holding a Putter
There are three main grips used by golfers: the standard grip, the cross-handed grip, and the claw grip. Let’s go through each one to see which feels best for you.
Standard Grip (The Most Common)
This is the go-to grip for most golfers, especially beginners. Here’s how you do it:
- Place your left hand (for right-handed golfers) on the putter grip with your thumb pointing down the shaft. Your left hand should be relaxed but firm.
- Grip the putter with your right hand, placing your palm facing your left hand. Your right thumb should rest against the shaft, creating a “V” shape with your right hand and left hand.
- Relax your fingers. Don’t squeeze the grip too tightly; a soft grip will allow your hands to work in harmony with the rest of your body during the stroke.
Cross-Handed Grip (Left-Hand Low Grip)
The cross-handed grip is commonly used by golfers who struggle with inconsistent putting strokes, and it’s been proven to help many players get better results. Here’s how to set it up:
- Place your left hand low on the grip, gripping it just like you would with the standard grip.
- Place your right hand above your left hand on the grip. Now, your right hand should be in a mirror image of your left hand’s position.
- This grip can help you make a more stable putting stroke, as it promotes a more consistent motion.
Claw Grip (For a Steady Stroke)
If you struggle with wrist movement or have difficulty controlling the putter head, the claw grip might be what you need. Here’s the breakdown:
- Place your left hand on the putter grip like the standard grip, but with a looser grip.
- For your right hand, hold the grip with just your fingers. Imagine your right hand as a “claw,” with your palm facing the hole and your fingers gripping the shaft.
What Grip Pressure Should You Use?
A common mistake beginners make is gripping the putter too tightly. Too much pressure can lead to jerky movements and inconsistent putting. The goal is to have a relaxed yet controlled grip.
- Light grip pressure is key. Try holding the putter with a pressure level of around 3 to 4 on a scale of 1 to 10.
- The grip pressure should remain constant throughout your stroke.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Now that you know how to grip your putter, let’s quickly go over a few common mistakes beginners make:
| Mistake | How to Fix It |
| Gripping too tightly | Relax your hands and use a light grip. Think of holding the putter like you would a tube of toothpaste. |
| Holding the putter too high or low | Find a natural and comfortable spot for your hands on the grip. Adjust your position until it feels balanced. |
| Uneven grip pressure | Maintain consistent light pressure. Both hands should feel equally engaged. |
| Tense arms and shoulders | Keep your arms and shoulders relaxed during your putt. |
Adjusting Your Grip for Better Control
Everyone’s hand size and preferences are a bit different. You may need to adjust your grip based on how you feel during the stroke. Try to experiment with different grips to find the one that suits you best.
A helpful tip: Practice with a light grip and focus on making smooth, consistent strokes.
The Next Step: Putting Practice
Now that you have your grip down, it’s time to put it to work. But before we jump into putting drills, here’s a quick look at how the correct grip can improve your overall putting.
| Benefit | How it Helps Your Game |
| Improved accuracy | With a solid grip, you can hit the ball more precisely. |
| Better consistency | A relaxed grip helps reduce over-exertion and creates smoother strokes. |
| Stronger confidence | When your grip feels right, you’ll have more confidence in your putting ability. |
Conclusion
Mastering how to grip a putter correctly is essential for improving accuracy and consistency on the greens. A proper grip enhances control, reduces tension, and promotes a smooth stroke. Whether you prefer a conventional, claw, or cross-handed grip, practice and comfort are key. Find what works best for you and refine your technique for more confident putting.
Stay tuned because in the next post, we’ll talk about the best stance for putting another crucial element that pairs with your grip to improve your putting.
