Part I: Before You Swing
Lesson #2: The Short Thumb

Proper grip pressure is one of golf's most elusive fundamentals - and it's as difficult to describe as it is to achieve. One method that has helped me set the proper pressure in my left hand is the 'short-thumb' technique.

Take your usual grip on the club, with your left thumb extended straight down the shaft. Now, slide the thumb upward, about a centimetre. Notice the effect this has on the tightness of the hold in the last two fingers of your hand. This is exactly where you want a firm, secure grip.

This is one key that I check all the time. If you occasionally experience a looseness in your swing - or the inaccuracy it causes - I recommend that you too experiment with the short thumb.

Illustration by Jim McQueen

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