Practising Your Putting Strokes: Drills for Daily Improvement
Golf is a sport that thrives on practice, and for many amateur golfers in the UK, mastering the putting green is where games are won or lost. If you’ve ever found yourself standing over a short putt, sweating bullets, you know just how crucial it is to have a reliable putting stroke. Luckily, with a bit of dedication and the right drills, you can see significant improvement in your putting skills. Here are some friendly and straightforward ways to practice your putting strokes every day.
1. Set Up a Home Putting Green
You don’t need to head to the golf course every time you fancy a bit of practice. Creating a mini putting green at home can be as simple as rolling out a putting mat in your living room or garden. Having this space will allow you to slot in quick practice sessions whenever you have a spare moment.
2. Use a Target
To sharpen your aim, pick a target that you can focus on. This can be a coin, a tee, or any small object. Place it a few feet away and try to putt towards it. By having a clear target, you’ll train your eyes and hands to work together. Remember, it’s all about building that muscle memory.
3. The Gate Drill
This is a classic but effective drill. Place two tees slightly wider than the width of your putter head a couple of feet in front of you. The goal is to putt the ball through the gap without hitting the tees. This drill helps improve your stroke by keeping it straight. If you can successfully navigate the gate, you’re one step closer to a more consistent swing.
4. Distance Control Drill
Putting isn’t only about accuracy; distance control is just as important. For this drill, select a spot and putt the ball to various distances—3 feet, 5 feet, and 10 feet. Focus on making sure each putt rolls smoothly and gets to its intended target. You’ll feel your confidence increase as you learn to gauge distances more effectively.
5. The One-Handed Putts
This drill might seem simple, but it can yield powerful results. Try putting with just one hand—first the dominant hand, then the other. Doing so helps you understand the mechanics of your putt and strengthens the muscles involved. You’ll be surprised at how much control you can gain. Plus, it can be a fun challenge to attempt!
6. Make It a Game
Adding a little fun to your practice can keep your motivation levels high. Challenge friends or family members to putting contests. Make a point system where you earn points for sinking putts from different distances or for hitting specific targets. Not only will this spice up your practice sessions, but it will also simulate the competitive atmosphere of a real match.
7. Incorporate Routine
Establishing a consistent pre-putt routine can work wonders for your confidence and concentration. Whether it’s taking a deep breath, wiggling your toes, or visualising the putt, find what calms you before you take the shot. Stick with this routine every time you practice and on the course, and soon enough it will become second nature.
8. Reflect and Adjust
After each practice session, take a moment to consider what worked and what didn’t. Did you hit more putts on target today? Did you struggle with distance? Being mindful of your performance allows you to adjust your drills and focus on the areas that need improvement.
Summary
Improving your putting skills doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By incorporating these drills into your practice routine, you’ll be well on your way to sinking more putts and lowering your scores. Whether you’re setting up a home practice area, challenging friends, or honing your technique with fun drills, daily practice will lead to noticeable improvements. Remember, every golfer started somewhere—so keep at it, stay positive, and soon you’ll be the one sharing tips with fellow golfers! Happy putting!
