Weak Grip Vs Strong Grip - Why I Play The One Amateurs Hate

PGA-certified golf instructor Jonathan Chown analyzes the weak grip versus strong grip debate, highlighting why amateur golfers often struggle with an excessively strong grip. He explains how a strong grip leads to severe swing compensations like early extension and flipping, whereas a neutral to weak grip provides forgiveness and face angle control. Chown also shares a simple takeaway check drill to help golfers dial in the right grip matchup.

• An overly strong grip (3.5+ knuckles) closes the club face, requiring high swing speed and tour-level rotation to manage effectively.
• Amateur golfers using strong grips frequently early extend (stand up) at impact to forcibly open the club face.
• A neutral (2.5 knuckles) to weak (1.5 to 2 knuckles) grip provides more 'wiggle room' for consistent face control and better posture.
• Aligning wrist flexion with a neutral or weak grip creates a square face angle throughout the backswing and downswing.
• Use a takeaway check pause at shaft-parallel to verify that your club face matches your spine angle.