I have been helping a friend repair his game. We have been working on all aspects of it. This week we worked on putting. I think some time needs to be spent on pace, but the majority should be spent holing short putts.
I got him to use the label or a straight line to line up his putts. I resisted this idea for a long time but I think anyone who doesn't use it is already starting out behind.
After that, I broke out the carpenters chalk line and made him a line for a six foot putt. This is the best drill/practice anyone could do. Nothing raises your confidence like seeing putts go in. Your alignment and line couldn't be more clear.
I used to use this a few years back and had forgotten how powerful it is. I did it for a while and missed one putt out of probably 200, maybe more.
If you use this enough, you will start to see the chalk line even when it is not there.
If you are struggling, or just want to make more putts, give this a try.
Another that has helped me during practice, especially with long putts, is to put a spot of powder or one of those plastic ball markers or even a coin under the ball.
The idea is to line up the putt, make the stroke and look at the coin after you hit the ball. This helps me keep my head down and not peek, which invariably leads to decelleration casting of the wrists. I am still not a great putter but i am a much better lag putter (on most days).
Another that has helped me during practice, especially with long putts, is to put a spot of powder or one of those plastic ball markers or even a coin under the ball.
The idea is to line up the putt, make the stroke and look at the coin after you hit the ball. This helps me keep my head down and not peek, which invariably leads to decelleration casting of the wrists. I am still not a great putter but i am a much better lag putter (on most days).
Pelz has recommended the 'coin' approach for wedge shots...flops...etc. It really does help.
Whatever it takes to keep your head still. I just try and imitate Faldo. People should take all the energy they use to keep their head still on full shots, forget it, and use it on their putting.
I hope this topic doesn't get off, because I would like to have some people try what I say. But for speed, I think you should just putt different length putts to the fringe.
I like the chalk line idea, but think it would go over like passing gas in church at my club...I'm going to try anyway...
I used to be in the business at a very exclusive, private club. I did it there quite regularly. The super didn't mind at all. He was more concerned with me standing in the same place for such a long time. As long as I moved from day to day, he didn't mind.
July 21st, 2006, 05:09 PM
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