Abstract: A method is provided for cushioning the grip of a striking instrument which generally includes the steps of providing a striking instrument having an elongated shaft, placing a pneumatically actuated cushioning apparatus over the distal end of the shaft, the pneumatically actuated cushioning apparatus having a bladder configured to surround the proximal end of the shaft along a desired length and a valve for receiving a volume of air; inserting the nozzle of a pump into the valve of the cushioning apparatus, and operating the pump in order to inject a volume of air into the bladder, thereby cushioning the grip of the striking instrument. Preferably, the striking instrument is a golf club. A cushioning apparatus is also provided, which includes an inner layer and an outer layer defining a bladder, and a valve for receiving air and delivering it into the bladder so that the grip may be pumped up.