In golf, no part of the game holds as much weight as putting. While long drives might thrill the crowd, it’s the gentle, precise touch on the green that separates the great from the good. Mastering your putting isn’t just a way to shave strokes off your score—it’s the key to feeling in control when it matters most.
For sports fans, this high-stakes tension is one of the reasons golf remains a favorite in sportsbooks. Promotions such as bet365 Iowa sportsbook promos offer a great starting point for engaging with the sport in a whole new way while appreciating the art of putting.
Build a Consistent Routine
Consistency is the foundation of good putting. Great putters don’t just rely on instinct; they follow a process every time. Start by picking a target and reading the green carefully. Take a few practice strokes to get a feel for the distance and speed. Once you’re ready, step up to the ball with confidence. A routine helps eliminate hesitation and builds trust in your ability.
Tiger Woods is a prime example of the power of a consistent putting routine. Woods often starts by hitting 20–30 putts using only his right hand. It helps him feel the putterhead release and the face rotate naturally. It’s his way of focusing on the clubhead’s weight as it loads and releases. This dedication to his routine paid off extraordinarily: Woods once went 1,540 consecutive putts without missing from inside three feet over nearly two years.
As Woods demonstrates, repetition and commitment to a structured routine turn good putters into great ones. Stick to your process, and soon, it will become second nature.
Focus on Your Grip
Your grip can make or break your putt. A light grip ensures a smooth stroke, while a tight grip can cause tension, leading to jerky movements.
Experiment with different grips—the traditional, cross-handed, or claw grip—until you find one that feels natural and keeps the putter face stable through impact.
Remember, it’s not about copying what works for someone else; it’s about finding what feels right for you.
Keep Your Head Still
It’s tempting to peek up and see where the ball is going, especially when you’re eager to make a tricky putt. But lifting your head too early disrupts your stroke. Keep your eyes down until the ball is well into the hole.
A simple trick? Listen for the ball to drop rather than watching it. It can have a big impact on your accuracy.
Control the Speed
A perfectly aimed putt won’t matter if it doesn’t reach the hole—or if it races past it. Controlling speed is all about feel. Spend time practicing on different greens to understand how the ball reacts to various surfaces.
A good rule of thumb: focus on leaving the ball no more than a foot or two past the hole on a miss. That way, you’ll avoid costly three-putts and keep your scores low.
Practice with Purpose
Not all practice is created equal. While hitting putts mindlessly on the practice green might help with muscle memory, structured drills are far more effective. Try setting up a circle of tees around the hole and aiming to sink putts from each spot.
Another useful drill is to practice lag putting from 20, 30, or even 40 feet, focusing on getting the ball close enough for an easy tap-in. Purposeful practice makes every minute count.
Closing Thoughts
Perfecting your putting technique doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your game. Small, intentional changes can make a world of difference. Focus on building a routine, finding the right grip, staying steady, controlling your speed, and practicing with clear goals. Remember, every golfer—even the pros—can improve.