“Putting”

Now that we have our pre-shot routine intact, let’s start to play some golf. Although every hole starts on the tee box, golf fundamentals start backwards. Our topic this time is putting. Did you know that 50% of all golf shots on a par 72 golf course are allotted for putts? Think about how short some of those are. When on the practice greens focus on putts inside of 10 feet for those usually are the difference between a good round and a bad round.
 
All great putters have three things in common:
1. Good green reading skills (having your eyes directly over the ball will help you see the line better)
2. Start the ball rolling online
3. Speed control (eliminating three putts)
 
The other key object is lag putting. Try using your full shot grip for putts outside of 30 feet. This will help get the feel of the putt, increase your distance control, and eliminate three putts. Remember to never start a round of golf before hitting the practice green. Practice is the key to better scores. Good luck!
 
Drill: Hit your putts at a ball marker, not at a hole, to start with. Don’t immediately try to make putts, simply roll the ball toward a ball marker you’ve put down about six feet away. Think about the stroke and centering the ball on the putter face. Picking a smaller target will make the hole look bigger and increase your confidence.

JJ Johnson
Head Golf Professional