A method is provided for gauging the squeeze pressure of a golf club which generally includes the steps of providing a golf club having an elongated shaft, placing a pneumatically actuated, internally ribbed cushioning device over the distal end of the shaft, the pneumatically actuated, internally ribbed cushioning device having a bladder configured to surround the proximal end of the shaft along a desired length and a finger actuated pump with pressure relief valve for receiving and releasing a volume of air to and from the bladder in order to achieve internal air pressure desired for maximum control of golf strokes. A cushioning and training apparatus is also provided, which includes a ribbed inner layer and an outer layer defining a bladder, and a finger actuated pump with pressure relief valve for receiving and releasing air into and out of the bladder so that it may be pumped up or deflated as desired by the user.