Putting is the cornerstone of a great golf game, and consistent practice is the key to success. Whether you’re on the green or practicing at home, these drills will help you improve your accuracy, speed, and confidence with the flat stick. Let’s dive into 10 practical putting drills to elevate your game.
1. The Gate Drill
Purpose: Improve alignment and accuracy.
- What You’ll Need: Two tees or markers.
- How to Do It: Place two tees slightly wider than the width of your putter head. Practice making putts while ensuring the putter head passes through the “gate” without touching the tees. This builds a consistent and straight stroke.
2. Clock Drill
Purpose: Enhance short-putt consistency from all angles.
- How to Do It: Place 4-6 balls around the hole at equal distances, resembling a clock face (e.g., at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock). Start at three feet and work your way outward. Sink all the putts before moving back.
3. Ladder Drill
Purpose: Improve distance control.
- How to Do It: Place markers or tees at intervals of 3, 6, 9, and 12 feet from the hole. Putt a ball to stop as close as possible to each marker in sequence without overshooting the target. This helps you control speed and touch.
4. The Coin Drill
Purpose: Develop a smooth, consistent stroke.
- What You’ll Need: A coin or small marker.
- How to Do It: Place a coin on the ground and putt the ball so it just rolls over the coin. This encourages clean contact and a square strike.
5. Alignment Stick Drill
Purpose: Ensure proper alignment and stroke path.
- What You’ll Need: An alignment stick or a straight object like a yardstick.
- How to Do It: Lay the stick on the ground and place the ball along its edge. Practice putting along the stick, keeping the putter aligned with it. This helps refine your stroke mechanics.
6. One-Handed Putting Drill
Purpose: Build feel and control.
- How to Do It: Practice putting using only your dominant hand. This drill forces you to rely on touch and finesse, which translates to better control on the greens.
7. The String Line Drill
Purpose: Improve visual alignment and stroke path.
- What You’ll Need: A string tied between two objects (e.g., tees or rods).
- How to Do It: Stretch the string above the intended putting line, aligning it with the target. Practice stroking the ball directly under the string to ensure a consistent stroke.
8. Distance Ladder at Home
Purpose: Hone distance control indoors.
- How to Do It: Use tape to create several lines on your carpet at varying distances. Putt the ball so it stops exactly at each line. This drill helps refine your touch and is perfect for home practice.
9. Putt Through the Gate Drill
Purpose: Enhance aim and focus under pressure.
- What You’ll Need: Two small objects (e.g., cups or books).
- How to Do It: Create a “gate” for the ball to pass through on its way to the hole. Practice putts while ensuring the ball goes through the gate cleanly.
10. Pressure Putt Drill
Purpose: Simulate on-course pressure situations.
- How to Do It: Start at three feet and make 10 consecutive putts. If you miss, start over. Increase the distance once you’ve completed the sequence. This drill builds mental toughness and focus under pressure.
Tips for Effective Practice
- Focus on Quality, Not Quantity: A few minutes of focused practice is more beneficial than hours of unfocused putting.
- Track Your Progress: Note improvement in your stroke consistency, distance control, and alignment over time.
- Simulate On-Course Conditions: If possible, practice on greens with varying slopes and speeds to prepare for real-game scenarios.
Conclusion
Mastering your putting takes dedication, but with these drills, you can sharpen your skills both at home and on the course. Perfect your aim, distance control, and stroke consistency to shave strokes off your game and boost your confidence on the greens. Which drill will you try first? Let us know!
