Upwards Stretching

I have been trying to do DLD's beginners routine but have recently been concentrating more on the BTC and straight down stretches because I can't get a good grip for the upwards stretches. Is there a way that I can improve my grip and how important is it to stretch upwards??

I switch my grip on upward stretching. My position is thumbs up gripping with my middle and index finger. This gives me the best grip for upward stretching.