Putting Stroke Fundamentals
The basics of a fundamentally sound putting stroke is one where the lower body stays stationary, the head is properly positioned, and the upper body, the arms, and shoulders form a triangular shape and move with a pendulum motion. Ideally, you should swing the putter back and through at the same speed with a sense of rhythm. The goal is to return the clubface back to a square position at impact along the target line, and that stokes the ball with topspin towards the hole.
Triangle Pendulum Motion
You want almost no wrist or hand action because they are too hard to control and keep your putter head square and on the target line. Never allow your wrists to unhinge.
Putting Stoke Length
The length of your backstroke should be about the same distance as your follow-through length.
It is important to regulate your distance by changing the length of your stroke and by trying to apply sudden bursts of power with your hands. For instance, you do not want to make a 30 foot by taking the club back only a few inches and then suddenly trying to hit hard to make the hole.
Your goal is a smooth, slow, and even pace stroke, with the shoulders moving in a steady pendulum motion. The length of the backstroke is an area where some pro trainers recommend different advice. Some advocate the 1/3 – 2/3 rule. Take the putter back 1/3 the length, and the follow-through should be 2/3 of the total length.
However, the one thing that is agreed upon is not having your backstroke greater than your follow-through. Secondly, your control distance by varying the length of your stoke.
The Role of Your Wrists
Basically, you do not want your wrist to be playing any role in your putting stroke. What you do not want is your wrist to flex, like in the photo to the right. This is normally disastrous and will result in too much play in the putter’s head.
However, on very long putts, it is okay for a little wrist hinging because it becomes too hard to keep your lower body stable and your posture correct. But never the less, keep in mind that you only want to use your wrists only as much as is necessary.
The Backswing
- Begin to move the putter head back a long the target line.
- Use your triangle and keep your lower body still and your head still with your eye focused on the ball.
- Remember, the length of the backstroke will dictate the length of the putt.
As you move your putter back along the target line, your left should lower, and your right shoulder will rise. See the image to the right. The left shoulder lowers while the head remains steady.
Down Swing
The most important thing is to return the club head square at impact. Keep your arms, hands, and shoulders working together, and your putter should be low to the ground. Maintain a smooth and steady pace and let the club naturally accelerate.
The Follow Through
The left wrist should remain flat, and the right shoulder will lower. The putting stroke will continue along the target line until the length is the same as the backswing.
Keep a Steady Head
Never look up until well after you hit the ball and fully complete your backswing. Many golfers simply fail at this even though they know not to peek and are anxious to look up. A good practice tip to incorporate into your routine is to count to two before looking up.
Lower Body
Keep your feet, knees, and hips from moving, and your lower body should not have any movement. Any movement in this area will throw off your upper body and prevent a correct swing path.
Wrists
Keep your left wrist flat during impact and follow through. If your wrists bend during effects, they may add unnecessary power to the putt or change the putter head direction.
Eyes
Remember to position your eyes directly over the ball. They should always be parallel to the target line of the putt.
Pace and Rhythm
The feeling of your swing should be one of a smooth, flowing motion. Do not force the pace of your swing but do accelerate through the ball. The putter should have the same pace on the backswing and follow through, but it is important that it gains speed as it strikes the ball.
