Golf Putting Technique

By Sharon Penn
There are as many different types of putters and techniques as there are golfers, choose yours to match your game.
There are as many different types of putters and techniques as there are golfers, choose yours to match your game.

In order to putt well and lower your score in golf, you need the confidence to believe that the ball is heading straight into the hole.

Proper putting techniques and practice can help you get a feel for putting and accomplish the task. The goal is to sink the ball with just one or two putts on the green.

Grip

The “reverse overlap” grip is favored by many golfers because it helps to prevent the wrists from breaking during the putt.

To use a reverse overlap grip, place the putter head on the ground and place the bottom hand on the club with the thumb pointing straight down. The top hand is then positioned close to the bottom hand, and the index finger of the top hand covers the index fingers of the bottom hand.

Reading the Green

It is essential to read the green between the ball and the hole before putting. This will determine the target line and speed of the putt. To read the green, crouch down behind the ball, and look at the putt from in back of the hole.

If the green is wet, the putt is uphill or the ball is going against the grain of the grass, the putt will be slower. On the other hand, a dry, downhill putt with the grain of the grass will be faster.

Aligning the Ball

Line up the name or logo on your ball with the target line. It can help to draw a line on the ball. Then align the face of the putter with the name, logo or line.

Visualizing the Putt

Try to visualize the putt by “seeing” an imaginary line between the ball and the hole. Select an intermediary target a few inches in front of the ball between the ball and the hole to help keep your putt on line without lifting your head. On a downhill putt, visualize the line stopping just short of the hole so you do not hit the ball too hard. On an uphill putt, the imaginary line goes through the hole so you will get enough distance to the hole.

Stroking the Ball

Keep the clubhead low to the ground with your wrists firm. Take a practice stroke, and use a pendulum motion to take the club back, then hit through the ball. The head remains steady and the lower body remains still. The shoulders move your arms and the club as you accelerate through the ball.

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