When it comes to gripping a golf club, there are many different methods and styles. One popular method is the “Hank Haney” grip, named after the famous golf instructor who has coached many professional golfers, including Tiger Woods.
The Hank Haney grip is a variation of the “interlocking” grip, where the pinky finger of the right hand interlocks with the index finger of the left hand. Here are the steps to grip a golf club using the Hank Haney method:
Hold the club in your left hand with your palm facing up, and place the clubface on the ground.
Place your left thumb on the top of the grip, pointing down towards the ground.
Wrap your fingers around the grip, making sure they are snug and not too tight.
Place your right hand on the club, with your palm facing down and your pinky finger resting on top of your left hand.
Interlock your right pinky finger with your left index finger.
Wrap your right hand around the grip, making sure your fingers are snug and not too tight.
Make sure your hands are touching each other, and there is no gap between them.
Adjust your grip pressure so that it is firm but not too tight. You should be able to wiggle your fingers slightly.
Finally, position the club in your fingers rather than in your palm, and align the clubface square to your target.
Remember, the grip is one of the most important fundamentals in golf, so it’s important to practice and get comfortable with your grip before hitting shots on the course. The Hank Haney grip is just one method, and you may find that another grip style works better for you.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips and considerations for using the Hank Haney grip:
Hand position: With the Hank Haney grip, your left hand will be in a stronger position than your right hand. This means that your left hand will be more responsible for controlling the clubface during the swing, and your right hand will be more responsible for generating power.
Finger placement: Make sure that your fingers are wrapped around the club and not over the top of the grip. You should be able to see the knuckles of your left hand and the thumb of your right hand.
Grip pressure: As mentioned, your grip pressure should be firm but not too tight. A grip that is too tight can cause tension in your arms and affect your swing.
Practice swings: Before hitting a shot, take a few practice swings with your Hank Haney grip to get comfortable and ensure that your grip pressure is consistent.
Grip size: The size of your grip can also affect your swing. If your grip is too small or too large, it can affect your ability to control the clubface. Make sure that your grip size is appropriate for your hand size.
Remember that the Hank Haney grip is just one method, and it may not work for everyone. Experiment with different grip styles and find the one that feels most comfortable and natural for you. With practice and repetition, you’ll be able to develop a consistent and reliable grip that will help improve your golf game.
Hank Haney Grip Pressure
Grip Pressure
Description
Pros
Cons
Tips
Strong
Fingers wrap tightly around grip
Provides control of clubface at impact
Can lead to tension in hands and forearms
Use this grip if you tend to slice or fade the ball
Neutral
Firm hold on grip
Offers consistent ball flight
May lack feel and touch
Try this grip if you’re not sure which one to use
Light
Gentle hold on grip
Offers more feel for the clubhead
Can lead to less control and distance
Use this grip if you tend to hook or draw the ball
Hank Haney Hand Position
Hand Position
Description
Pros
Cons
Tips
Neutral
Hands centered on the grip
Provides consistent ball flight
May not be as powerful or generate as much distance
Use this grip if you’re a beginner or have a slower swing
Strong
Trail hand more toward the back of the grip
Offers greater control of the clubface
Can limit wrist movement, leading to less distance
Use this grip if you tend to slice or fade the ball
Weak
Lead hand more toward the front of the grip
Provides more power and distance
May not offer as much control of the clubface
Use this grip if you tend to hook or draw the ball
Ray Barnes, our Senior Staff Writer and a Golf Analyst with a PhD in Sports Analytics, is a beacon of insight in the golfing world. With a deep understanding of the sport's nuances, statistical analysis, and a talent for demystifying complexities, he provides in-depth analysis and captivating narratives that engage golf enthusiasts worldwide.
