Reverse Overlap Putting Grip
Learning how to putt begin with the putting grip. If you are experiencing problems with your putting game then a grip change maybe what you need. Although there are a variety of putting grip styles used today by both professionals and amateurs alike the most popular is the reverse overlap grip. I believe this grip is the most fundamentally solid of the choices available and would highly recommend it to new golfers.
To form the Reverse Overlap Grip:
(1) Begin by placing both hands on the club so they are facing each other and then move your right hand down the shaft roughly three inches.
(2) The putter should lay below the back pad of your left hand.
(3) The back side of your hands should be parallel to each other.
(4) Extend your right thumb down the shaft to a little below the right index finger.
(5) Your left thumb will also point down the club and slip into the palm of the right hand.
(6) Now position your left middle finger so it overlaps the little finger of your right hand.
(7) Finally take your left index finger and lay it across the tops of your right hand ring, middle and index fingers.
The benefit of this grip style is that it forms a solid unity to your hands, The hands are positioned very close together which enables them to work as a complete unit. Although this grip style will not eliminate your wrists from flexing, it does help prevent either one of your hands from becoming to dominating.
In terms of putting grip pressure the lighter you are able to grip the club the better. With applying lighter grip pressure you will have less tension and have a better feel of the club face. Basically you should apply just enough pressure to maintain control. On the practice green experiment with different pressure levels to find which one suits you the best. On a final note, whatever grip pressure you do use you should maintain that pressure evenly out your swing.
Professional golfers do use different grips in putting and periodically will make a change in their grip. However when they do make a change they have a clear understanding of the new grip style and that it will take them time to fully adapt to the change. Likewise, if you decide to make a change realize it takes plenty of time until you can feel comfortable and realize the benefits.