Putting is a crucial skill that can dramatically lower your golf scores. It accounts for nearly 40% of strokes during an average round, meaning improving this aspect can significantly impact your overall performance. Here are practical tips and drills to refine your technique and build confidence on the green.
Perfect Your Grip
A stable grip ensures better control and eliminates unnecessary wrist movements during your stroke. Position the putter through the lifeline of your palms rather than the fingers. This setup promotes consistent impact and improved stability.
The Clock Drill
This drill helps build confidence in short putts and consistency under pressure:
- Place four balls around the hole, each about three feet away, resembling '12 o'clock,' '3 o'clock,' '6 o'clock,' and '9 o'clock' on a clock face.
- Putt each ball, one by one, and rotate positions until all balls are holed.
By practicing this drill, you'll improve your ability to sink short putts, even in high-pressure situations.
Speed Control Drill
Mastering speed control is key to reducing three-putts. Here's how to practice:
- Set up tees at three distances from the hole: three feet, five feet, and seven feet.
- Focus on landing each ball slightly past the hole but within a 2-foot marker.
This drill enhances your ability to judge pace and distance, which is essential for consistent putting.
The Gate Drill
This exercise sharpens your aim and ensures square impact:
- Create a 'gate' using two tees placed slightly wider than your putter head.
- Position the ball in the center and practice striking it cleanly without touching the tees.
Consistency in this drill improves your alignment and precision, leading to better results on the course.
