If you’re a keen golfer in the UK, you know that the green can be both a beautiful sight and a tricky challenge. One key skill that can transform your game is mastering lag putting. We’re going to break down some simple, friendly strategies to help you improve your distance control on those longer putts, meaning fewer three-putts and more chances for par or birdie. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Lag Putting
First off, what is lag putting? Simply put, it’s about getting your ball close to the hole instead of trying to hole every long putt. Think of it as managing your distance rather than focusing solely on your aim. The goal is to make your next putt much easier, ideally just a tap-in.
Eye on the Target
One of the first things to consider is your target. Instead of staring solely at the ball or the hole, pick a spot on the line to the hole. This could be a mark on the green or a blade of grass. Focusing on this intermediate target helps you visualise the right line and distance, which can really help your confidence.
Practice Your Feel
Just like any sport, the more you practice, the better you’ll get. Get out on the practice green and work on your distance control with a variety of long putts. Try hitting putts from different lengths and focus on how hard you need to strike the ball.
A fun drill to try is the “ladder drill.” Set up some markers at various distances, starting from a couple of feet right up to about 30 feet. Aim to get the ball within a circle around each marker (perhaps two feet in diameter). This will help you gauge how hard to hit the ball over time.
Putter Grip Pressure
Interestingly, grip pressure can hugely influence your feel and control on the greens. It’s tempting to grip the putter tightly when you’re nervous about distance, but instead, try to keep your grip relaxed. A lighter grip allows for a smoother stroke, which can lead to better results.
The Right Stroke
When you’re ready to putt, think about making a smooth, pendulum-like stroke. Too often, amateur golfers rush their strokes, which can throw off their distance. Focus on slowing down your backswing and allowing your follow-through to carry the momentum. This keeps everything fluid.
Also, remember to use your shoulders to initiate the stroke rather than your hands. It helps in maintaining a steady motion and delivers better distance control.
Reading the Greens
Make sure to take time to read the greens before you putt. Look at the slope and grain of the grass. Is it uphill or downhill? Crosswind? A well-examined putt will prepare you better, helping you judge how hard to hit it.
You might also find it helpful to look for recent footprints or wear patterns on the green. They can give you clues about how the ball rolls, assisting you in making better distance judgments.
Stay Calm and Positive
Finally, remember to enjoy the game! Golf is as much about the mental aspect as it is about the physical. If you’re feeling anxious about a long putt, take a deep breath, visualise the ball rolling smoothly towards the hole, and trust your practice. A calm mindset can work wonders on your putting performance.
Summary
Mastering lag putting is all about getting your distance control on point. Focus on your target, practice that distance feel, maintain a relaxed grip, and keep your stroke smooth. Take time to read the greens and, most importantly, stay positive. With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll soon see improvement in those long putts – helping you enjoy your game even more. Happy putting!
