Junior Golf Tips: Right-Size Clubs, Strong Grip, Speed
John Watts, from the TruGolf Academy, shares the advice he wishes he’d received as a child. Some of it may surprise parents: don’t tell your child to “keep your head down and swing slowly,” but let them find their own speed, using a strong grip and clubs that are the right size.
To be continued
What the lesson shows
First point: clubs of the right length and weight. Shortening adult clubs results in inconsistent weights and flexibility. Half a set is enough at first, but children grow: John Watts believes that clubs should be adjusted about every two years. Then, he falls in love with the game: Play on the course—if possible, with better players—and practice creatively, devoting at least half the time to the short game through games and challenges.
On the technical side, he recommends a strong grip, with the left hand slightly higher, and three or four knuckles visible. Before about age 8, a “baseball” grip (ten fingers) may be the best choice; after that, a loose interlock grip. This grip causes the ball to curve to the left: the child learns to avoid it by a strong turn using the hips and thighs, his true driving force. For him, speed is something you learn at a young age: multisport activities, jumping, climbing, bouncing, and quick swings with the club turned upside down. He cites Tiger Woods, who maintained a strong grip for a long time.
The Exercise, Step by Step
- Have someone check to make sure your child's clubs are the right length and weight.
- Organize rounds on the course and short-game challenges.
- Place his left hand further up on the grip, with three or four knuckles showing.
- Until about age 8, let him hold the club with all ten fingers.
- Make quick swings—with a club held upside down or a drumstick—while listening to the whistling sound.
- Let him hit powerful drives by using his legs and hips.
Key Takeaways
Mistakes to Avoid
- Give the child shortened adult clubs.
- Remind him to keep his head down and swing slowly.
- Applying a tight interlock or overlap grip too early.
- Strive for technical perfection before speed.
- Don't overlook the short game.
Driving Range Mode
Keep it in plain sight, on the rug.
- Half the time spent on the short game, in the form of games
- Fast Swings with the Club Turned Over
- A few hard-hit drives
- Other sports besides golf
Your Questions
Can you cut adult clubs for a child?
John Watts advises against it: the weights and flexibility levels become inconsistent. A short, appropriate set is sufficient, to be reviewed about every two years as the child grows.
What kind of club grip should a young child use?
Before the age of about 8, he recommends a “baseball” grip, with all ten fingers on the club. After that, a loose interlock grip, with a strong grip.
Should we tell the child to swing slowly?
No, according to him. Speed is something you learn when you're young; accuracy comes later. He recommends letting children hit the ball hard through speed drills and other sports.
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