How to Improve at Putting

Introduction

As a PGA Associate and Golf Coach, I often remind my students that putting accounts for nearly half of all strokes in a round. Improving your putting can lead to lower scores without changing any other part of your game. This guide will cover the fundamentals, drills, and strategies to help you become a more consistent and confident putter.

1. Fundamentals of Great Putting

  • Stable Setup: Keep a consistent posture and ball position for repeatable strokes.
  • Light Grip Pressure: A softer grip allows for better feel and tempo.
  • Smooth Tempo: A steady, rhythmic stroke leads to better distance control.
  • Putter Path: A slight arc or straight-back-straight-through motion should be consistent.
  • Eye Position: Eyes should be directly over or slightly inside the ball for better alignment.
  • Ball Position: Position the ball slightly forward in your stance to ensure a slight upward strike.

2. Key Factors Affecting Putting Performance

  • Green Speed: Faster greens require a softer stroke, while slower greens need more energy.
  • Slope & Break: Read the green carefully to anticipate speed and direction.
  • Ball Contact: Striking the center of the putter face ensures consistent speed and accuracy.
  • Putter Length & Weight: Properly fitted equipment aids in better stroke mechanics.

3. Drills to Improve Putting

1. Coin Drill

  • Place a coin on the green and try to putt the ball so it just rolls over it.
  • Helps with precision and controlling speed on short putts.

2. Clock Drill

  • Arrange six balls in a circle around the hole at three-foot intervals.
  • Putt each ball, focusing on making smooth, confident strokes.
  • Enhances confidence and consistency on short putts.

3. Two-Tee Gate Drill

  • Place two tees just wider than your putter head at the impact point.
  • Ensures a square, controlled stroke by keeping the putter face on the correct path.
  • Place two tees just wider than a ball about 6-10 inches in front of your ball to practice starting your ball on line.

4. Distance Ladder Drill

  • Place markers at 10, 20, and 30 feet.
  • Putt three balls to stop within one foot of each marker.
  • Improves feel and distance control on long putts.

5. Edge of Cup Drill

  • Putt to the edge of the cup instead of the center to improve precision.
  • Encourages better speed control and accuracy.

4. Course Strategy for Better Putting

  • Uphill Putts: Be more aggressive; trust your line.
  • Downhill Putts: Use softer grip pressure and a shorter stroke.
  • Long Putts: Focus on rolling the ball to the hole, not trying to make it.
  • Short Putts: Firm but controlled strokes reduce the chance of deceleration.
  • Pre-Shot Routine: Develop a consistent routine to improve confidence under pressure.

Summary

Mastering putting requires a combination of solid fundamentals, effective practice, and smart on-course strategy. By refining your stroke mechanics, working on pace control, and implementing these drills, you’ll see significant improvements in your putting consistency and confidence.

Next Steps:

  • Practice these drills regularly to fine-tune your feel.
  • Track your putts per round to measure improvement.
  • Work with a PGA Professional to ensure proper putting mechanics.

With improved putting, you’ll sink more putts, reduce three-putts, and lower your overall scores. Happy putting!

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