Incorporate these effective drills into your practice routine to hone your putting skills:
1. Gate Drill
Purpose: Improve stroke path and accuracy.
How to Perform:
- Place two tees slightly wider than your putter head.
- Practice stroking the ball through the "gate" without hitting the tees.
- Focus on a smooth, centered stroke.
2. Ladder Drill
Purpose: Develop distance control.
How to Perform:
- Set up balls at intervals (e.g., 3, 6, 9 feet) in a straight line.
- Putt the balls toward the same target, focusing on consistent speed.
- Aim to stop each ball just past the hole.
3. Circle Drill
Purpose: Build confidence on short putts.
How to Perform:
- Arrange 6–8 balls in a circle around the hole, about 3 feet away.
- Putt each ball into the hole, moving around the circle.
- Progress to 4–6 feet as you improve.
4. One-Handed Drill
Purpose: Enhance feel and control.
How to Perform:
- Practice putting with only your dominant hand on the putter.
- Alternate hands to develop a balanced stroke.
- Focus on maintaining a smooth tempo.
5. Clock Drill
Purpose: Work on alignment and pressure putts.
How to Perform:
- Position balls at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock around the hole, each 4 feet away.
- Sink each ball, simulating pressure situations.
- Gradually increase the distance as your confidence grows.
6. String Line Drill
Purpose: Improve alignment and straight putting.
How to Perform:
- Stretch a string over your intended line, securing it with tees.
- Putt along the string to ensure proper alignment and stroke direction.
7. Distance Ladder Drill
Purpose: Fine-tune touch and lag putting.
How to Perform:
- Mark distances of 10, 20, and 30 feet on the practice green.
- Putt to stop the ball within a target zone around each marker.
- Work on controlling your speed and power for varying distances.
8. Pressure Putt Drill
Purpose: Simulate real-game pressure.
How to Perform:
- Set a target score for 10 consecutive putts.
- Challenge yourself to beat your score or restart if you miss.
- Add consequences (e.g., restarting) to mimic high-stakes situations.
Practicing these drills regularly will improve your putting mechanics, build consistency, and boost your confidence on the green.