[Han Jeong-eun's Beginner Golfer Special Lecture①] Grip "What is Interlocking?"

Grip Controlling Power and Direction "Hold with Fingers, Grip Strength Around 3-4, Position Neutral" Highly Recommended

Golf starts with holding the grip.

‘Interlocking’.

Grip is one of the ways to hold a golf club. In all sports that require equipment, such as golf, tennis, and table tennis, how you hold the club is crucial. Power and direction depend on the grip. This is why both amateur and professional golfers pay close attention to their grip. A firm grip allows maximum power to be accumulated during the backswing and then transferred to the clubhead at impact through the downswing.

First, interlocking, shown on the left in . The left index finger and right pinky finger interlock, hence it is also called the ‘kakkaji grip.’ The palms and the golf club are in full contact, making it comfortable, and it is preferred by juniors and female golfers who generally have weaker grip strength. Remember that gripping too tightly when interlocking can make wrist movement unnatural. Interestingly, it is favored by ‘Golf Emperor’ Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.

From the left, interlocking, overlapping, and baseball grip.

‘Overlapping’ is in the middle of . The right pinky finger rests gently over the left index finger. Coaches consider this the most ideal form because both hands work harmoniously. ‘Baseball’ grip is on the right in , similar to holding a baseball bat. Both hands are in contact with the grip, allowing for a strong swing. However, it can hinder shoulder turn and make it difficult to maintain consistency in every swing.

Regardless of the style, note that the club is held with the fingers, not the palms. The club rests from the pinky finger to the thick part below the middle finger and the middle joint of the index finger, then covered by the lifeline. Next is grip pressure. Although it varies by personal preference, most beginners grip too tightly. A pressure of about 3 to 4 out of 10 is sufficient. A soft grip allows free arm movement and connects to ‘body rotation.’

Lastly, finger position. Our golfers should always use the ‘neutral’ grip. The left thumb forms a ‘V’ to the right of the glove logo, and the right thumb forms a ‘V’ to the left of the logo. For reference, advanced players tend to use a strong grip, placing their fingers more to the right to increase distance. Conversely, a weak grip, turning to the left, improves direction. Putting grips are naturally an exception. There are no restrictions on putter design or length, and the grip is entirely up to the player.

▲ Map = Pro Jeong Eun Han jhangolf@naver.com

▲ Compiled by = Golf Specialist Reporter Hyunjun Kim golfkim@asiae.co.kr

▲ Location = Yongin Diamond Golf Studio