Everyone putts in golf. Few master it. Part of a golfer's short game, putting occurs at the end of each hole, generally on or around the putting green. If a particular hole has short fringe or rough surrounding the green, it may be acceptable to putt from these areas as well. On many occasions, putting is the last shot taken on each hole.
Putter
Unique to both irons and woods, the putter is a specially designed club used specifically for putting the golf ball. Though you don't have to use every club in your bag, the putter is one almost always used during the course of each round. Putters have much less loft than other clubs, thereby making the ball roll on the grass instead of it being raised. Many brands and styles of putters are available for purchase, but it is always best to use one you are most comfortable with. According to golflink.com, the length of a putter is determined by the golfer's size, putting stroke and comfort level.
Grip
You should have proper grip with every golf swing you take, including putting. Even though your stroke is completely different when putting the ball, a correct grip is vital for a straight and smooth follow-through. Use either the baseball, interlocking or more commonly used overlapping grip for best results. Make sure your hands mirror the position of the club face. According to golf.com, your hands must remain quiet and in a square position, with both parallel to each other and to the club face.
Stance
Equally important as your grip is your putting stance. Before getting into your stance, set up your target in your mind. Look over the putting green to see if there are any slopes or dips that can affect your putt. According to golfputtingonline.com, the correct putting stance ensures you can swing your arms correctly, which helps you deliver the club head to the ball on a straight line. When you get into your stance, 1golflessons.com advises you to have your feet shoulder-width apart with your toes forming a parallel line to the cup.
Body Position
How you position your body greatly dictates your shot execution. The ball should be somewhere between the middle of your body and your left foot for right-handed golfers. According to 1golflessons.com, stand close to the ball so that your knees can be flexed, with your body curled over and your eyes directly over the target line. Stay loose and comfortable without bending your body too much. If you are tight and rigid, your ball will likely go offline, causing more unneeded strokes.
Execution
Putting is difficult to master. But a high percentage of your strokes come from your putting, so good form is key. Know the green before you actually putt. If the cup is uphill, your stroke will be longer than if the cup is downhill. Unlike with other golf swings, you should move your body as little as possible. Your arms and shoulders should be doing most of the movement. Keep your head still and always look at your target. For great putts, it is imperative for your back stroke and forward stroke to be the same length. With proper form, your putts will find the hole quicker, which, in turn, will make you a happier golfer.
Member Comments