The Two‑Palm, Index‑Finger Putter Grip: A Unique Approach

Unconventional Putter Grip Sparks Debate Across Golf Community

A golf technique segment is gaining attention after a player described an unusual putting grip: both palms rest on the sides of the putter grip with the index fingers extended.

The description has circulated online this week, drawing reactions from players, coaches, and fans about how grip choices might influence accuracy and stroke feel.

Experts say grip choice can affect wrist action, alignment, and the tempo of a putt. The configuration described is uncommon and not part of standard teaching, which has sparked a broader discussion about grip versatility in putting.

breaking News: What It Means For Your Game

As conversations continue, players are weighing whether this style could offer advantages in certain scenarios or simply reflect a personal preference. The grip places emphasis on finger positioning, a factor some coaches say can alter feedback at impact. For now, most players stick with tried‑and‑true methods until more data emerges.

Putting grips are a core element of the stroke and can influence distance control, line, and feel.Traditional grips are widely taught because they provide consistent wrist angles and stability. the described grip adds a different tactile signal, which could suit a small group of players with specific stroke tendencies. For authoritative guidance, consider resources from respected bodies such as the USGA and major outlets like PGA TOUR and Golf Digest.

External resources:

• USGA – Putting Fundamentals
• PGA Tour – Putting Tips
• Golf Digest – Grip Techniques

Evergreen Insights On Putting Grips

Putting grips are a core element of the stroke and can influence distance control, line, and feel. Traditional grips are widely taught because they provide consistent wrist angles and stability. The described grip adds a different tactile signal,which could suit a small group of players with specific stroke tendencies.

Players exploring grip options should focus on fundamentals such as stance, alignment, and tempo. Practices like slow-press strokes, gate drills, and routine warmups help build familiarity with any grip. For authoritative guidance, consider resources from respected bodies such as the USGA and major outlets like PGA TOUR and Golf Digest.

External resources:

• USGA – Putting Fundamentals
• PGA Tour – Putting Tips
• Golf Digest – Grip Techniques

Grip Style Comparisons

Grip Type	Description	Pros	Cons
Conventional Two-Handed	Hands stacked with wrists neutral to slightly hinged.	Widely taught; consistent foundation.	May limit wrist-driven feel for some players.
Palms-On Sides Grip (Described)	Both palms rest on the sides of the grip; index fingers extended.	Distinct finger orientation; could alter feedback.	Unfamiliar; requires dedicated practice.
Interlocking	pinky of one hand interlocks with index finger of the other.	Strong connection; common among top players.	May feel restrictive for some golfers.
Baseball Grip	Fingers on one side, like gripping a baseball bat.	Reduces wrist rotation; easy for some to execute.	Less common at the highest levels.

Engagement Questions

• Would you try the described palms-on-sides grip on your next round? Why or why not?
• Which grip has helped your putting the most, and what did you notice when you changed grips?

Share your thoughts in the comments and join the ongoing discussion about how grip choices shape the putting game.

Step‑by‑Step Setup

.## What Is the Two‑Palm, Index‑Finger Putter Grip?

• Definition – Both palms face the club face while the index finger of the dominant hand rests lightly on the top edge of the putter grip.
• Key characteristics –

1. Hands work as a single unit, reducing wrist hinge.
2. Grip pressure is centered around the index finger, promoting a stable “hands‑together” feel.
3. The thumb positions remain neutral, avoiding excess torque.

This grip blends elements of the conventional reverse‑overlap adn claw grips, delivering a unique blend of stability and feel that many low‑handicap players report improves putt consistency.

---

Step‑by‑Step Setup

1. Select the right putter – A mallet with a thicker grip (≈ 38 mm) offers a agreeable surface for both palms.
2. Position the left hand (for right‑handed golfers)

• Lay the palm flat against the grip, fingers wrapped loosely.
• Thumb rests on the top of the grip,pointing toward the club face.
• Add the right hand
• Place the right palm directly on top of the left, mirroring its position.
• The index finger of the right hand rests lightly on the top edge of the grip,acting as a “anchor.”
• Check alignment
• The V‑shapes formed by the thumbs should point toward the target line.
• grip pressure should feel like holding a feather – firm enough to control the putter but relaxed enough to allow a smooth stroke.

Pro tip: Practice the grip with the putter on the ground first, then transition to a short fringe shot to feel the weight transfer.

---

Biomechanics Behind the Grip

• Reduced Wrist Rotation – By locking the palms together, the wrist’s rotational axis is minimized, leading to a more pendulum‑like stroke.
• Improved Clubface Control – The index‑finger anchor provides a tactile reference point,helping maintain a square face thru impact.
• Balanced Pressure Distribution – Pressure spreads across both palms rather than concentrating in the fingers,decreasing fatigue on long‑haul putts.

A 2022 study in Journal of Sports Biomechanics reported a 7 % increase in face‑square consistency among golfers who adopted a two‑palm grip with an index‑finger anchor during a 6‑week training program.

---

Benefits for Different Skill levels

Skill Level	Primary Benefit	How It Translates to Performance
Beginners	Simplifies hand action	Fewer “flipping” errors; faster learning curve
Mid‑handicappers	Enhances repeatability	Improved distance control on 5‑15 ft putts
Low‑handicappers & Pros	Fine‑tunes feel	Allows subtle tempo adjustments without sacrificing stability
Senior Golfers	Reduces strain	Lower grip pressure eases joint stress, extending playing time

---

Common Mistakes & Rapid Fixes

Mistake	Symptom	Correction
Over‑tightening the index finger	Stiff stroke, blocked feel	Lighten the finger pressure until the putter swings freely.
Thumbs pointing outward	Mis‑aligned aim line	Realign thumbs so the V‑shapes point down the target line.
Uneven palm pressure	Clubhead pulls left or right	Apply equal pressure with both palms; use a mirror to check symmetry.
Incorrect grip length	Too much hand movement	Trim the grip by 2-3 mm or add an over‑grip to achieve proper hand placement.

---

Practical Training Drills

1. Mirror Drill – Set up a full‑length mirror on the practice range.Practice the grip and observe palm and thumb alignment in real time.
2. Gate Drill – place two tees 2 inches apart a few inches behind the ball. The two‑palm grip helps keep the putter path straight through the “gate,” reinforcing a pure pendulum motion.
3. Pressure Awareness Drill – Use a pressure‑sensing grip (available from brands like Tour Edge). aim for a consistent reading of 4-5 kg on each palm throughout the stroke.
4. One‑Hand Finish Drill – After a conventional putt, release the left hand and finish with only the right hand’s index‑finger anchor.This reinforces the feeling of the anchor’s influence on clubface control.

---

real‑World Example: 2023 US Amateur champion

During the 2023 US Amateur, champion Nolan Miller switched to a two‑palm, index‑finger grip halfway through the final round after struggling with a “yesterday‑stroke.” Miller credited the grip for a smoother tempo and a two‑stroke advancement on the final‑hole 12‑foot putt that secured his victory. Post‑tournament interviews revealed that he had been experimenting with the grip during his off‑season training with coach Emily Hart, a former PGA Tour putting specialist.

Takeaway: Even elite players turn to unconventional grips when conventional methods stall, underscoring the grip’s viability at the highest competition levels.

---

Quick reference Checklist

• Use a mallet or oversized grip putter.
• Place left palm flat, right palm on top, index finger as anchor.
• Align thumb‑V’s toward the target line.
• Maintain light, even pressure across both palms.
• Perform the Gate Drill weekly to reinforce a straight stroke.
• Review grip in the mirror before every practice session.

By integrating the two‑palm, index‑finger putter grip into your routine, you can enjoy greater stability, reduced tension, and a more repeatable putting stroke-key ingredients for shaving strokes off your scorecard.