In golf, the last step of each hole is the putt. Once the ball is on the green, you will use a putter to close the final distance to the hole. While scores of people play miniature golf using a putter, it's harder to putt on the golf course. Improving your putting game will take several strokes off of your score and can make the game that much more enjoyable.
Step 1
Set up your stroke with the grip and posture you are most comfortable with. The most popular grip is called the reverse overlap in which your left hand is on top of your right with your left index finger over the fingers of your right hand. You can keep your feet together or shoulder width apart depending on what is most comfortable for you. Make sure you keep this stance every time you putt.
Step 2
Use your arms and shoulders to hit the ball toward the hole. Your shoulders, arms and hands should form three points of a triangle. Move your shoulders to move the club back and forth to hit the ball. Do not use your wrists as this will give you less accuracy.
Step 3
Keep your head down and straight at all times. By doing so, you will keep your eye on the ball, allowing you to hit it squarely.
Step 4
Keep the back stroke and the forward stroke the same length. The power is in the back stroke and the forward stroke helps to push the ball to the hole.
Step 5
Spend time with your initial aim before you set up for your shot. The initial aim will help you make better contact with the ball. Read the green to determine how it slants so you know where to hit the ball. Also, if your aim is good, you will not have to compensate with power to get your ball where it needs to go. A good thing to try is to draw lines on your putter to make sure you it the ball squarely each time in line with your aiming.
Step 6
Aim slightly farther than the target. By aiming farther than the hole, you lessen the risk of not having enough power to get the ball there, which is a common error in putting. This will help you with slanted greens as well because as the green slants, the extra power will help the ball curve toward the hole.
Tips and Warnings
- Take a few practice shots before you hit the ball. This will get your body into the rhythm you need to hit the ball. If you are still having problems with your putting, consider buying a new putter. A putter with a larger head, commonly called a two or three ball putter, sometimes provides a more accurate line for your ball.
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