Break 20: A Golfer's Comeback Guide
Grip and Stance
Get a Grip
Your hands are your only connection to the golf club. That makes how you hold it one of the most important parts of your swing. A good grip gives you control over the clubface, which dictates where the ball goes. For most players, a neutral grip is the best place to start.
The grip, stance, and posture are the foundation of a golfer’s swing.
Let's build a neutral grip. If you're a right-handed player, start with your left hand. Place it on the club so you can see two to two-and-a-half knuckles when you look down. The "V" shape formed by your thumb and index finger should point roughly toward your right shoulder.
Next, add your right hand. It should fit snugly against your left, covering the left thumb. The "V" on your right hand should also point toward your right shoulder, mirroring your left hand. This alignment helps you deliver the club back to the ball squarely at impact, leading to straighter shots.
While the neutral position is the goal, there are three common ways to link your hands together. Each has its own feel and is suited to different players.
| Grip Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Overlapping (Vardon) | The right pinky finger rests in the space between the left index and middle fingers. | Players with larger hands; it's the most popular grip on professional tours. |
| Interlocking | The right pinky finger links, or interlocks, with the left index finger. | Players with smaller hands, as it helps the hands feel more connected. |
| Ten-Finger (Baseball) | All ten fingers are on the club, with the right pinky next to the left index finger. | Beginners, juniors, or players who lack hand strength. |
Try all three to see what feels most comfortable and gives you the best control. Don't be afraid to experiment. A comfortable grip is a confident grip.
Take Your Stance
Once your grip is set, it’s time to build your stance. A solid, balanced stance is the platform for your swing, allowing you to generate power while staying in control.
Start with your feet. For a mid-iron shot, your feet should be about shoulder-width apart. This provides a stable base. Your feet, hips, and shoulders should be aligned parallel to your target line, like you're standing on railroad tracks. One track is for the ball and club, and the other is for your body.
Posture is just as important as foot placement. You want to be in an athletic position, ready for movement. Bend your knees slightly, but don't squat. Hinge forward from your hips, not your waist, keeping your back relatively straight. Let your arms hang naturally from your shoulders. Your weight should be balanced evenly between the balls of your feet, not on your heels or toes. This setup keeps you stable throughout the swing.
The ball position will change depending on the club you're using. For a middle iron, the ball should be in the center of your stance. For longer clubs like a driver, it moves forward toward your front foot. For shorter clubs like wedges, it moves back slightly. But the core principles of a balanced, athletic stance remain the same.
A good grip and a balanced stance work together. They create a stable foundation that allows you to swing the club freely and consistently.
Now that you've learned the fundamentals of grip and stance, let's test your knowledge.
For a right-handed golfer using a neutral grip, where should the 'V' shape formed by the thumb and index finger on the left hand point?
When building a proper golf stance for a mid-iron shot, your feet should be approximately how far apart?
Mastering these two fundamentals will take practice, but they are the bedrock of a repeatable, effective golf swing.