Improve Your Putting with a Consistent Routine

Improving your putting with a consistent routine can greatly enhance your accuracy and confidence on the greens. Here's how to develop a routine that will help you sink more putts:

1. Assess the Green

• Read the Green: Take time to walk around your putt, especially on longer or breaking putts, to observe the slope, grain, and overall terrain. Look from different angles to get a sense of the break.
• Look for Grain: The direction the grass is growing (the grain) can affect the speed of your putt. Putts against the grain are slower, while putts with the grain are faster.

2. Visualize the Line

• Stand behind the ball and visualize the path it needs to take to reach the hole. Imagine the ball rolling along that line, curving if necessary, and entering the hole.
• Decide on a specific aim point—like a patch of grass or a mark on the green—that helps you focus on the right line.

3. Establish a Pre-Shot Routine

• Develop a simple pre-shot routine that you repeat before every putt. For example:
  • Take 1-2 practice strokes to get a feel for the distance.
  • Step behind the ball, align your putter, and confirm your aim point.
  • Take a deep breath to relax before stepping up to the ball.
• This routine keeps you focused and reduces anxiety, allowing you to approach each putt with confidence.

4. Set Up Consistently

• Square Your Body: Your feet, hips, and shoulders should all be aligned parallel to your target line. Proper alignment ensures your putter follows a straight path.
• Ball Position: The ball should be positioned slightly forward in your stance (toward your front foot). This allows for clean contact and a smooth roll.
• Grip: Use a light, relaxed grip to avoid tension in your hands and arms, which can negatively affect your stroke.

5. Focus on Speed and Pace

• Distance control is crucial in putting. Your goal is to focus on the right pace, which can often be more important than the line on long putts.
• On uphill putts, you may need a firmer stroke; downhill putts require a more delicate touch.
• Visualize where you want the ball to stop, especially if the hole is beyond your aim point, and practice your putting stroke with that speed in mind.

6. Commit to the Line and Stroke

• Once you've chosen your line and visualized the putt, commit fully to it. Don't second-guess yourself as you address the ball. Trust your read and make a smooth, confident stroke.
• Stay relaxed through the stroke, avoiding any tension in your wrists or hands.

7. Follow Through and Hold Your Finish

• Ensure you follow through with the putter toward your target after striking the ball. A good follow-through is essential for solid contact and proper ball speed.
• Hold your finish for a second or two. This prevents you from pulling or decelerating the putter during the stroke.

8. Practice Routine Consistency

• Practice your putting routine regularly, both at home and on the practice green. The more you rehearse, the more natural and automatic it will become during rounds.
• Use a variety of drills (like putting to targets of varying distances) to reinforce your routine while also improving your accuracy and distance control.

By following a consistent putting routine, you’ll develop muscle memory, build confidence, and reduce anxiety when facing pressure putts on the course. Over time, this consistency will lead to better putting results.