Grip Strength

[RIduffer]

Been watching golf channel tonight (as usual), and paying particular attention to the pro's grips. It appears to me that most pros are using pretty strong grips, with at least 3 knuckles visible. Looks like their left forearm is really cranked to the right at set-up.

I've always been told that a neutral grip is best, but I'm wondering if my interpretation of a neutral grip would actually be considered weak. In particular, my right hand V tends to point pretty straight up, whereas the pros seem to have it facing more toward the right shoulder. So I guess what I'm asking is: Are the pros favoring strong grips these days, or is my grip really just very weak in comparison?

[James_Black]

Been watching golf channel tonight (as usual), and paying particular attention to the pro's grips. It appears to me that most pros are using pretty strong grips, with at least 3 knuckles visible. Looks like their left forearm is really cranked to the right at set-up.

I'm currently changing my grip from very strong to neutral.

I think your grip would be classed as neutral. But lessons I've gotten say 2 or 2 1/2 knuckles should be visible.

[groovezilla79]

Been watching golf channel tonight (as usual), and paying particular attention to the pro's grips. It appears to me that most pros are using pretty strong grips, with at least 3 knuckles visible. Looks like their left forearm is really cranked to the right at set-up.

I think a lot of it has to do with the courses getting longer. Guys who normally can't bomb it out there are looking to get those extra yards any way they can. You can normally hit the ball farther with a stronger grip, but only if you can control the tendency for the ball to go left.

I personally changed from strong to neutral about 5 years ago. While I've lost a bit of distance, I've gained so much more control over the club that my handicap has gone down sharply. However, what works for me may not work for you or a pro and vice versa. It's something you need to experiment with and see what you are most comfortable with. Also, if you make a grip change, make sure you give yourself ample time to get used to it. It kills me when I see guys make a grip or swing change for 1 or 2 weeks, then give up on it because they don't get immediate results.