There are five fundamentals of putting.
When the ball has reached the green is where we start. If you practice these five important tips, the short shots on the green will become smooth and effortless.
- Proper posture promotes the proper path. In golf, we bend from the hips, not the back. Eyes are over the ball, elbows are bent, and forearms are in alignment with the shaft.
- The feel of the stroke is not unlike two dancers that flow gracefully together. If you start the stroke with your shoulders, the putter seems to swing on its own. The shoulder motion moves in harmony with the putter, swinging like a pendulum.
- Your stance is the width of your hips and shoulders. For the best possible balance, feet should be under the knees and shoulders.
- Grip pressure should always be light, as if you are holding a ripe banana, or a tube of toothpaste with the cap off. You don’t want to get toothpaste everywhere!
- When we aim the putter at the target (not always the hole), the toe line is aiming parallel to the yellow line (to the left for a right-handed player).
Good putters have lighthearted attitudes.
They know how to relax when the pressure is on. A smile always graces their face, no matter what shot they make. Whatever it is you need to work on, a qualified instructor can go a long way towards getting you on solid footing with the fundamentals of the game. Get out on the greens and come see me anytime!
By Doug Weaver
Carolina’s PGA Teacher of the Year, Doug Weaver is the Director of Instruction at the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy. He conducts “Where Does the Power Come From?” a free interactive clinic and demonstration every Monday from 4-5 p.m. at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course. Volunteer for a free lesson and some will win prizes! Call (866) 455-6890 or go to www.palmettodunes.com for more information.
