logo

3 Exercises to Boost Grip Strength For Golfers To Gain Distance Off the Tee

Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT • January 19, 2025

Grip strength is a game-changer in golf, influencing swing mechanics, club control, and the power behind your drives. A strong grip can help you unlock extra yards off the tee while improving overall performance. In this post, we’ll share three highly effective exercises— utilizing kettlebells—to strengthen your grip and stabilize your swing.




Try These 3 Exercises To Improve Grip Strength For Golfers


1. Farmer’s Carry


Why It Works: The farmer’s carry builds grip endurance, forearm strength, and core stability, all essential for controlling the club during powerful swings.


How to Perform:

  1. Grab a pair of heavy dumbbells or kettlebells, one in each hand.

  2. Stand tall with shoulders back and core engaged.

  3. Walk forward in a straight line for 30-60 seconds, maintaining a firm grip.

  4. Rest for 30 seconds and repeat for 3-4 sets.


Pro Tip:  Gradually increase the weight as your grip strength improves while maintaining good posture.


2. Bell-Up Kettlebell Press


Why It Works: The bell-up kettlebell press challenges grip, wrist stability, and shoulder strength by requiring precise control of an inverted kettlebell. This exercise mimics the stability and coordination needed during a golf swing.


How to Perform:

  1. Hold a kettlebell upside down by the handle with your palm facing forward.

  2. Press the kettlebell overhead slowly, keeping your core engaged and wrist stable.

  3. Lower it back down with control.

  4. Perform 3 sets of 8-10 reps on each arm.


Pro Tip:  Start with a lighter kettlebell to master the technique, as the inverted position requires greater wrist and grip strength.


3. Bell-Up Liberty Carry


Why It Works: This advanced carry improves grip strength, wrist stability, and overall balance. The inverted kettlebell challenges your stabilizers, which translates to better club control and swing mechanics.


How to Perform:

  1. Hold a kettlebell upside down by the handle, keeping it close to your chest.

  2. Press it overhead and lock your arm out.

  3. Walk forward slowly for 10-20 steps, maintaining a stable wrist and shoulder position.

  4. Lower the kettlebell and repeat on the other arm. Perform 3-4 sets per side.


Pro Tip:  Keep your core tight to maintain balance and control throughout the movement.


Incorporating these three exercises into your fitness routine will help you develop stronger grip strength, better wrist stability, and greater power behind your swing. These benefits will not only improve your drives but also enhance your overall performance on the course.


Ready to elevate your golf game? Contact us or book a personalized golf fitness assessment today! https://www.adaptivefitnesspt.com/book-online

By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT January 28, 2025
Golf demands a unique combination of strength, stability, and rotational power. A strong core not only improves your performance on the...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT December 10, 2024
If you're looking to improve spine health and prevent back injuries, focusing on exercises that strengthen your core while protecting...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT December 10, 2024
When working out, engaging your core the correct way is key to staying safe and getting the most out of your effort. One important skill...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT December 10, 2024
If you’re a golfer with a 9-to-5 desk job, your office setup might be killing your score! Sitting at a desk all day can do more than...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT October 27, 2024
Did You Know? The average PGA Tour golfer has 40% stronger grip strength  than the typical amateur golfer. That’s a significant...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT June 18, 2024
In the fitness world, stretching is often touted as a cure-all for various muscle and joint issues. While it's true that stretching can...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT May 1, 2024
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for exercise can be challenging. In fact, studies have shown that only 24.2% of Americans meet...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT December 6, 2023
The USGA and R&A are expected to announce next week that they will be changing the criteria for testing the performance of conforming...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT December 6, 2023
In the last blog, we covered physical limitations and their potential impacts on power and distance in the golf swing. In this blog, we...
By Steve Washburn, PTA, NASM-CPT November 15, 2023
Every golfer is on a mission to increase speed, power, and overall distance to help lower their scores. There are many different sources...
More Posts
Share by: