Putting is a crucial part of golf, and it’s often the determining factor for winning or losing a game. To become a proficient putter, one must have a proper grip on the putter. In this article, we will discuss the proper techniques for gripping a putter and how it can affect your putting stroke.
Gripping the putter is one of the most important aspects of putting. A proper grip ensures that the putter face remains square throughout the putting stroke, which is crucial for accuracy and consistency. A wrong grip can lead to inconsistency, making it difficult to control the ball’s direction and speed. In this article, we will guide you through the different types of grips and help you find the perfect grip for your putting style.
The Importance of a Proper Grip
A proper grip on the putter is crucial for consistency and accuracy. The grip influences the putter’s face’s angle, which is responsible for the ball’s direction and roll. A wrong grip can lead to mishits, leading to a bad putting stroke. A proper grip ensures that the putter face remains square to the target line, giving you control over the direction and speed of the ball.
Types of Grips
There are three main types of grips: the traditional grip, the cross-handed grip, and the claw grip. Each grip has its advantages and disadvantages, and it’s essential to find the one that works best for your putting style.
Traditional Grip
The traditional grip is the most commonly used grip in putting. It involves placing the left hand on the top of the grip and the right hand below it. The grip is comfortable and allows for a natural feel while putting. However, it can be challenging to control the putter face’s angle with this grip, leading to mishits.
Cross-Handed Grip
The cross-handed grip involves placing the left hand below the right hand on the grip. This grip is suitable for those who struggle with the traditional grip’s control and want a more stable putting stroke. However, it can feel unnatural and uncomfortable for some players.
Claw Grip
The claw grip involves placing the left hand in a ‘claw’ shape, with the palm facing the target, while the right hand holds the grip in a traditional way. This grip is suitable for players who want to reduce wrist action and have more control over the putter face’s angle. However, it can feel awkward and uncomfortable for some players.
How to Grip the Putter Properly
To grip the putter properly, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Hold the Putter with Your Left Hand
Place your left hand on the top of the grip with the thumb pointing straight down the putter shaft. The index finger should be extended down the shaft, creating a ‘trigger finger.’
Step 2: Position Your Right Hand
Place your right hand below your left hand, with the fingers wrapped around the grip. The palm should face the target, and the thumb should point straight down the putter shaft.
Step 3: Check the Grip Pressure
The grip pressure should be light, with the fingers providing a comfortable hold on the putter. Avoid squeezing the putter too tightly, as it can lead to tension in the arms and mishits.
Step 4: Check the Alignment
Check that the putter face is square to the target line. The grip should allow for a natural feel while ensuring that the putter face remains square throughout the putting stroke.
Tips for a Perfect Putting Stroke
Apart from gripping the putter correctly, here are some tips that can help you improve your putting stroke:
1. Keep Your Eyes over the Ball
Keeping your eyes over the ball helps to maintain a consistent stroke and prevents mishits. It’s essential to focus on the ball and not lift your head before hitting the ball.
2. Use Your Shoulders and Arms
The putting stroke should involve the shoulders and arms, not the wrists. Avoid using your wrists to manipulate the putter, as it can lead to inconsistency.
3. Keep Your Putting Stroke Smooth and Rhythmic
A smooth and rhythmic putting stroke ensures that the ball rolls smoothly towards the hole. Avoid rushing the stroke or decelerating the putter, as it can lead to mishits.
4. Practice Your Putting
Practice is essential to become a proficient putter. Spend time on the putting green, practicing different distances and slopes to improve your putting skills.
Conclusion
Gripping the putter properly is crucial for a consistent and accurate putting stroke. There are different types of grips, and it’s essential to find the one that works best for your putting style. Remember to keep your eyes over the ball, use your shoulders and arms, keep your stroke smooth and rhythmic, and practice regularly to improve your putting skills.
FAQs
- How tight should I grip the putter?
A: The grip pressure should be light, with the fingers providing a comfortable hold on the putter. - Should I use my wrists in the putting stroke?
A: No, it’s best to avoid using your wrists to manipulate the putter, as it can lead to inconsistency. - How can I improve my putting skills?
A: Practice regularly on the putting green, and focus on different distances and slopes to improve your putting skills. - Which grip is best for beginners?
A: The traditional grip is the most commonly used grip in putting and is suitable for beginners. - Can a wrong grip affect my putting stroke?
A: Yes, a wrong grip can lead to inconsistency, making it difficult to control the ball’s direction and speed.
