Fixing common putting mistakes is crucial for any golfer looking to improve their game.
Putting can often seem like a simple part of golf, yet it’s where many matches are won or lost.
This article will help you identify and rectify the most common putting errors, enabling you to shave strokes off your scorecard.
Identifying Your Putting Flaws
The first step in fixing common putting mistakes is to identify what you’re doing wrong.
Many golfers struggle with consistency due to flaws in their putting technique that they may not even be aware of.
Common Mistakes
Deceleration:
A common issue is when the golf putter slows down before hitting the ball, leading to weak and inaccurate shots.
Poor Alignment:
Setting up incorrectly to the target can cause the ball to start off-line and miss the hole.
Incorrect Ball Position:
Positioning the ball too far forward or back in your stance can affect the angle of the putter face at impact, leading to poor rolls.
Tools for Diagnosis
Using alignment sticks on the green can help ensure you’re aiming correctly at your target.
Additionally, recording your putting stroke with a camera from different angles can provide insights into your stance, grip, and swing path that you may not notice in real-time.
Adjusting Your Grip and Stance
Once you’ve identified your putting flaws, the next step is to make adjustments to your grip and stance, which are foundational elements of a successful putting stroke.
Grip Adjustments
The grip is critical in putting because it affects how you control the putter.
Ensure your grip is firm enough to control the putter through the stroke but relaxed enough to keep your wrists flexible.
Experiment with different grip styles, such as the traditional, cross-handed, or claw grip, to see what offers better control and consistency.
Stance Adjustments
Your stance should promote balance and stability.
Ensure your feet are shoulder-width apart with slight knee flex.
Align your shoulders parallel to your target line, and position your eyes directly over the ball if possible.
These adjustments can help promote a smooth and direct putter path.
Drills to Improve Accuracy
To fix common putting mistakes effectively, regular practice using specific drills can dramatically improve your accuracy and confidence on the green.
The Coin Drill
Place a coin on the green and practice putting to stop the ball on the coin.
This drill helps improve your distance control, a crucial skill for successful putting.
The Gate Drill
Set up a “gate” using two tees just wider than your putter head at a comfortable putting distance.
Practice putting through the gate to improve your stroke’s accuracy and ensure the putter is moving straight back and through.
The Alignment Drill
Use a chalk line or laser pointer to ensure your putter face is aligned with your target from setup to follow-through.
This drill reinforces muscle memory for proper alignment.
By identifying and fixing common putting mistakes through tailored adjustments and focused drills, golfers at any level can significantly enhance their putting skills.
Remember, patience and consistency in your practice will bring the best results, turning these skills into natural components of your golf game.
How often should I practice putting to see improvement?
Regular practice is key. Aim for at least three sessions per week, focusing on different aspects of your putting, such as speed control and alignment.
What is the best way to cope with putting pressure during a game?
Develop a consistent pre-putt routine that helps you focus and relax before each putt. Breathing exercises can also help manage pressure and keep your nerves under control.
Are there any mental strategies to improve putting?
Visualization is a powerful tool. Before each putt, visualize the ball’s path to the hole and imagine it dropping in. Confidence in your putting game often leads to better performance.