Elaine: Regarding the clubhead being “open” or “closed” at the top of the swing: the grip would obviously have a big effect on this. But how about forearm rotation and whether the wrist is “cupped” or “flat” at the top? These also have an affect. If one follows Hogan and uses a lot of forearm rotation and a “cupped” wrist (with a weak grip), it would be impossible not to have the clubhead open at the top. This did work for Hogan, but he practiced a lot. Fred Couples uses a strong grip with a big wrist cup and massive shoulder turn, which keeps the club relatively square (but ruins his back).

It would seem to me that if one’s goal were to make the swing as simple as possible (with less to go wrong), then one would minimize the amount of forearm rotation and would have a flat wrist at the top. It would seem that this would necessitate a weaker grip than is usually advised to keep the clubhead from closing at the top and promoting a hook.

Isn’t this what Tiger Woods has done, working with Hank Haney?

Greg G.

Greg,
I totally agree with you, simple is always better.

For most players the grip will have the biggest effect on whether the face is square at the top or not. You are correct, pros do some non-traditional things that they get away with because of the repetition of hours of practice. As I have retired for the tour now about 6 years, and not practicing as much, I am having to correct some of those things I got away with in the past.

I don’t believe that your grip has to be weak, or that you can’t have forearm rotation, or for that matter you can’t be a little cupped at the top, some of these just are the way a golfer swings. That’s why everyone looks a little different doing it. Great comments!

Thanks,
Elaine

Elaine Crosby is a 19-year veteran of the LPGA Tour and a member of the Women’s Senior Golf Tour. If you have a question for Elaine, please email us.