Perfect Your Putting: 12 Best Putting Drills For Distance Control In Golf

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer aiming to shave off those crucial strokes or a newcomer eager to conquer the art of putting, mastering distance control is important to effortlessly sink putt after putt with pinpoint accuracy.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re delving deep into the realm of putting drills specifically designed to hone your distance control skills. From mastering the delicate touch required for long-distance lag putts to navigating challenging terrain with finesse, we’ve curated a collection of the 12 best putting drills guaranteed to elevate your game to new heights.

So grab your putter, set up your practice space, and get ready to embark on a journey toward putting perfection. Whether you’re aiming to dominate the local club championship or simply seeking to impress your golfing buddies on the weekend, these drills will equip you with the tools and techniques needed to achieve unparalleled success on the green. Are you ready to take your putting game to the next level? Let’s dive in!

The Importance of Distance Control in Golf Putting

First and foremost, distance control is the linchpin of accuracy on the green. Think of it as the guiding force that ensures your ball lands exactly where you intend it to, with laser-like precision. Without proper distance control, even the most well-executed strokes can fall short, quite literally, of the mark.

Moreover, distance control is the cornerstone of consistency in your putting game. Picture yourself faced with a series of putts varying in length – short, medium, long. With impeccable distance control, you can approach each putt with confidence, knowing precisely how much force to apply to send the ball gliding effortlessly toward the hole.

But the importance of distance control extends beyond mere accuracy and consistency; it’s also a testament to your mastery of the mental game. Picture this scenario: you’re faced with a daunting putt, the hole seeming miles away. With unwavering distance control, you can approach the challenge with calm assurance, knowing that you have the skills to rise to the occasion.

Now, you might be wondering, how exactly does distance control impact your overall putting performance? The answer lies in the delicate interplay between physics and psychology on the green.

Physically speaking, distance control is all about understanding the relationship between the length of your stroke and the speed of your putter. By honing your ability to gauge distance accurately, you can adjust the length and pace of your stroke accordingly, ensuring that each putt travels the perfect distance to reach its destination.

But perhaps even more crucial is the psychological aspect of distance control. In the high-pressure environment of competitive golf, where every stroke counts, distance control can be the difference between triumph and defeat. By mastering this fundamental skill, you can instill confidence in your putting game, banishing doubt and uncertainty from your mind.

In essence, distance control is the bedrock upon which successful putting is built. It’s the glue that binds together accuracy, consistency, and mental fortitude, transforming a simple stroke of the putter into a masterpiece of precision and skill.

Top 10 Putting Drills Tailored For Distance Control

Drill #1: Gate Drill for Precision Putting

Setting up the Gate for Accuracy

The first step in mastering the Gate Drill is setting up the perfect framework for precision. Picture two tees or alignment rods placed strategically on either side of the hole, creating a narrow corridor or “gate” through which your ball must pass. This visual aid serves as a tangible target, helping you refine your aim and fine-tune your distance control with pinpoint accuracy.

Practicing Consistent Stroke Through the Gate

With the Gate set in place, it’s time to put your putting prowess to the test. Approach the ball with confidence, visualizing the desired trajectory as you address the putt. The key here is to maintain a smooth and consistent stroke through the Gate, ensuring that your ball rolls true toward the target.

Focus on controlling the pace of your stroke, exerting just enough force to send the ball through the Gate without veering off course. This requires a delicate balance of power and finesse, a harmonious blend of strength and precision that separates the amateurs from the pros on the green.

As you practice the Gate Drill, pay close attention to the alignment of your putter and the path of your stroke. Aim to strike the ball squarely in the center of the clubface, promoting a clean and efficient roll that maximizes your chances of success.

But perhaps the most valuable aspect of the Gate Drill lies in its ability to provide instant feedback on your putting technique. With each putt, observe how the ball interacts with the Gate – did it pass through cleanly, or did it clip the sides on its way to the hole?

By analyzing these subtle nuances, you can identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to your stroke accordingly. Whether it’s tweaking your grip, refining your stance, or recalibrating your aim, the insights gained from the Gate Drill can propel your putting game to new heights.

Drill #2: Lag Putting Drill for Long Distance Control

Establishing the Correct Pace for Lag Putting

The first step in conquering long-distance putts is establishing the perfect pace. Picture yourself standing at one end of the green, staring down a putt that seems to stretch on for miles. The key here is to strike a delicate balance between speed and control, finding the sweet spot that allows your ball to roll smoothly toward the hole without overshooting its mark.

To accomplish this, focus on the length of your stroke and the rhythm of your putt. Visualize the distance to the hole and adjust your pace accordingly, exerting just enough force to propel the ball toward its target without sacrificing accuracy.

Developing Touch and Feel for Long-Distance Putts

As you delve deeper into the Lag Putting Drill, you’ll quickly discover the importance of touch and feel in mastering long-distance putts. Unlike shorter putts where precision is paramount, lag putting requires a keen sense of distance and an intuitive feel for the speed of the green.

Practice makes perfect in honing this elusive skill. Spend time on the practice green, experimenting with different stroke lengths and tempos to develop a repertoire of techniques for tackling varied distances. Pay close attention to the feedback your putter provides – the sound of the ball striking the clubface, the sensation of the ball rolling off the putter, the trajectory of the putt as it glides across the green.

But perhaps the most valuable lesson to be learned from the Lag Putting Drill is patience. Long-distance putts can be daunting, testing your resolve and challenging your confidence with each stroke. Embrace the process, trust in your abilities, and allow yourself to grow through each putt, no matter the outcome.

Drill #3: Clock Drill for Distance Variation

Using the Clock Method to Gauge Distances

Imagine the green as a giant clock, with the hole positioned at the center. The Clock Drill utilizes this visual framework to help golfers gauge distances and adjust their strokes accordingly. Picture yourself standing at the 6 o’clock position, with putts extending outward in every direction like the hands of a clock.

Start by placing markers at strategic intervals around the hole, representing each hour on the clock face. These markers serve as reference points for putt lengths, allowing you to visualize the distance to the hole and tailor your strokes accordingly.

Enhancing Your Ability to Judge and Control Putt Length

As you delve into the Clock Drill, you’ll quickly discover its transformative power in enhancing your ability to judge and control putt length. Each putt becomes a calculated exercise in precision, as you navigate the nuances of distance variation with finesse and accuracy.

Begin by practicing putts from each hour on the clock, starting with shorter distances near the center and gradually working your way outward. Focus on maintaining a consistent stroke tempo and pace, adjusting the length of your backswing and follow-through to match the desired distance.

But the true beauty of the Clock Drill lies in its adaptability. Experiment with different putt lengths and angles, challenging yourself to navigate the clock face with confidence and precision. By embracing the variability of the drill, you’ll develop a keen sense of touch and an intuitive feel for putt length that will serve you well on the green.

As you hone your skills through the Clock Drill, pay close attention to the feedback your putter provides. Notice how subtle adjustments in your stance and stroke can influence the trajectory and speed of the putt. By remaining attuned to these nuances, you’ll gain valuable insights into your putting technique and uncover areas for improvement.

Drill #4: Uphill and Downhill Putting Challenges

Understanding the Nuances of Uphill and Downhill Putts

Uphill and downhill putts present unique challenges that require a keen understanding of the nuances of the terrain. Picture yourself facing an uphill putt, where the incline adds resistance and slows the pace of the ball. Conversely, downhill putts demand delicate touch and finesse to prevent the ball from racing past the hole.

As you navigate these varying landscapes, pay close attention to the slope and contour of the green. Visualize the path your ball will take, accounting for breaks and undulations that can influence its trajectory. By developing a keen eye for detail, you’ll gain a competitive edge in mastering uphill and downhill putts with precision and confidence.

Practicing Adaptability and Control on Varied Terrains

The true beauty of Uphill and Downhill Putting Challenges lies in their ability to cultivate adaptability and control in putting under diverse conditions. Each putt becomes a test of skill and strategy, as you adjust your technique to meet the demands of the terrain.

Start by practicing uphill putts, focusing on generating enough power to overcome the incline while maintaining control and accuracy. Experiment with different putter angles and stroke lengths to find the optimal approach for navigating the uphill slope.

Next, transition to downhill putts, where finesse and touch are paramount. Concentrate on controlling the pace of your stroke, using gentle movements to guide the ball toward the hole without overshooting. Pay attention to your stance and posture, maintaining stability and balance on the uneven surface.

But the real magic happens when you combine uphill and downhill putts into a single putting session. Challenge yourself to alternate between terrains, adapting your strategy on the fly to meet the demands of each putt. By embracing the variability of the terrain, you’ll develop a versatile skill set that will serve you well in any putting scenario.

As you hone your skills through Uphill and Downhill Putting Challenges, don’t be afraid to embrace failure as part of the learning process. Every missed putt is an opportunity to refine your technique and strengthen your resolve. With each stroke, you’ll inch closer to putting mastery, armed with the knowledge and experience to tackle any challenge that comes your way.

Drill #5: Putting with Obstacles for Realistic Scenarios

Adding Obstacles to Simulate On-Course Challenges

Imagine standing on the green, faced with a maze of obstacles standing between you and the hole. With Putting with Obstacles, you can recreate these on-course scenarios in your practice sessions, challenging yourself to navigate around barriers and hazards with finesse and precision.

Start by scattering objects such as tees, cups, or even coins around the hole, creating a makeshift obstacle course for your putts. These obstacles serve as visual markers and physical barriers, testing your ability to read greens and adapt your putting technique to meet the challenge.

Improving Focus and Accuracy Amidst Distractions

As you navigate the obstacles, you’ll quickly discover the transformative power of Putting with Obstacles in improving your focus and accuracy amidst distractions. Each obstacle becomes a test of concentration, forcing you to block out external stimuli and hone in on the task at hand.

Focus on visualizing the ideal path to the hole, taking into account the position and height of each obstacle in your line of sight. With each putt, aim to maintain a steady hand and a clear mind, channeling your energy into executing each stroke with precision and confidence.

But perhaps the true beauty of Putting with Obstacles lies in its ability to replicate the unpredictable nature of on-course play. From undulating greens to tricky pin placements, golf is a game of constant adaptation and adjustment. By incorporating obstacles into your putting drills, you’ll develop the resilience and versatility needed to thrive in any situation.

As you navigate the obstacle course, don’t be discouraged by missed putts or near-misses. Instead, embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning. With each stroke, you’ll gain valuable insights into your putting technique and develop strategies for overcoming obstacles with ease.

Drill #6: Pendulum Putting Stroke for Consistency

Mastering the Pendulum Motion for Consistent Rolls

Picture yourself standing over the ball, putter in hand, ready to unleash the power of the pendulum motion. Unlike conventional putting strokes that rely on muscle power, the pendulum technique harnesses the natural forces of gravity and momentum to generate a smooth and fluid motion.

To master the pendulum stroke, focus on maintaining a relaxed grip and a steady posture throughout the putt. Allow your arms to hang naturally from your shoulders, creating a pendulum-like motion as you swing the putter back and forth. Visualize the clubhead swinging freely along the intended path, with minimal interference from your hands or arms.

As you practice the pendulum stroke, pay attention to the rhythm and tempo of your motion. Aim for a consistent pendulum-like swing, with equal emphasis on the backswing and follow-through. This symmetrical motion ensures that the ball rolls smoothly off the clubface, maintaining its line and speed toward the hole.

Achieving Smooth Acceleration and Deceleration Through the Stroke

The key to unlocking the full potential of the pendulum stroke lies in achieving smooth acceleration and deceleration through the putt. Picture the arc of the pendulum, swinging gracefully from one extreme to the other with effortless fluidity. Your goal is to replicate this motion with your putting stroke, maintaining a constant pace from start to finish.

Focus on generating gradual acceleration as you swing the putter back, building momentum and power as you approach the ball. Avoid jerky or abrupt movements that can disrupt the flow of the stroke and compromise distance control. Instead, strive for a seamless transition from backswing to forward swing, allowing the clubhead to gather speed naturally as it approaches impact.

As the putter makes contact with the ball, focus on achieving a smooth deceleration through the stroke, gradually slowing the clubhead to ensure a clean and controlled roll. Imagine the pendulum coming to rest at the bottom of its arc, gently easing into its final position with precision and grace.

But perhaps the true beauty of the pendulum stroke lies in its simplicity. By embracing the natural rhythm and motion of the pendulum, you can unlock a world of consistency and precision on the green.

Drill #7: Pressure Putting Practice for Mental Toughness

Creating Pressure Situations to Mimic Tournament Conditions

Imagine standing on the final hole of a championship round, with victory hanging in the balance. The Pressure Putting Practice drill aims to recreate these high-stakes scenarios, challenging you to perform under pressure and thrive in the face of adversity.

To create pressure situations, set specific goals or consequences for each putt – whether it’s sinking a certain number of putts in a row or facing penalties for missed attempts. By imposing these external pressures, you’ll simulate the intensity of tournament conditions and train your mind to remain calm and focused under stress.

Building Confidence and Composure Under Stress

As you navigate the pressure-packed environment of Pressure Putting Practice, you’ll quickly discover the transformative power of mental toughness. Each putt becomes a test of resolve and resilience, as you summon the confidence and composure needed to execute under duress.

Focus on controlling your breathing and maintaining a positive mindset, regardless of the outcome of each putt. Visualize success and embrace the challenge with enthusiasm, knowing that each pressure situation presents an opportunity for growth and development.

But the true beauty of Pressure Putting Practice lies in its ability to cultivate mental toughness that extends far beyond the putting green. By learning to thrive under pressure on the golf course, you’ll develop the resilience and confidence needed to tackle challenges in all aspects of life.

As you embrace the pressure and push yourself to new heights of performance, remember that setbacks are simply stepping stones on the path to success. Each missed putt is an opportunity to learn and improve, building your mental fortitude and strengthening your resolve with each stroke.

Drill #8: One-handed Putting for Balance and Stability

Strengthening Your Core and Improving Stability

Picture yourself standing on the green, putter in hand, ready to tackle the challenge of one-handed putting. By removing one hand from the equation, you engage your core muscles and challenge your balance in ways that traditional putting drills cannot.

As you execute each putt with a single hand, focus on maintaining a stable lower body and a firm foundation. Feel the subtle engagement of your core muscles as they work to stabilize your posture and control your movements. With each stroke, you’ll not only improve your putting technique but also strengthen the muscles essential for balance and stability on the green.

Enhancing Coordination and Control with One-handed Drills

But the benefits of one-handed putting extend beyond physical strength – they also enhance coordination and control in your putting stroke. With one hand guiding the putter, you must rely on precise movements and impeccable timing to deliver a smooth and accurate putt.

Focus on the sensation of the putter in your hand, allowing your fingers to intuitively guide the clubface through the stroke. Notice how the absence of a second hand forces you to rely on subtle adjustments in grip pressure and wrist movement to achieve the desired outcome.

As you practice one-handed putting, pay close attention to the feedback your body provides. Notice any imbalances or weaknesses that may arise, and use them as opportunities for improvement. With each putt, you’ll refine your coordination and control, ultimately enhancing your distance control and accuracy on the green.

But perhaps the true beauty of one-handed putting lies in its versatility. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your stroke technique or strengthen your core muscles, this drill offers a dynamic and engaging way to achieve your putting goals.

Drill #9: Putting Alignment Exercises for Precision

Perfecting Your Aim and Alignment on the Green

Picture yourself standing over the ball, putter in hand, ready to take aim at the hole. With Putting Alignment Exercises, you’ll hone your ability to align your body and clubface with precision, ensuring that each putt starts on the right path.

Start by visualizing a straight line extending from the ball to the hole, known as the target line. Align your feet, hips, and shoulders parallel to this line, ensuring that your body is square to the intended target. Use visual markers such as alignment rods or imaginary lines on the green to guide your setup and ensure proper alignment.

Ensuring Proper Setup for Every Putt

But alignment is only half the battle – ensuring a proper setup is equally crucial for putting success. Begin by positioning the ball slightly forward in your stance, just ahead of the center of your stance. This promotes a slight upward strike on the ball, helping it roll smoothly along the green’s surface.

Next, focus on your grip and posture. Place your hands comfortably on the putter grip, with your palms facing each other and your thumbs running down the shaft. Maintain a relaxed grip pressure, allowing the putter to swing freely and naturally through the stroke.

As you address the ball, maintain a slight bend in your knees and a forward tilt from your hips. This athletic stance promotes stability and balance, ensuring a solid foundation for your putting stroke.

But the true beauty of Putting Alignment Exercises lies in their versatility. Whether you’re facing a straight putt or a challenging break, proper alignment and setup are essential for success on the green.

Drill #10: Speed Control Challenges for Distance Mastery

Fine-Tuning Your Speed Control for Varying Green Speeds

Picture yourself on the practice green, faced with putts of varying lengths and speeds. With Speed Control Challenges, you’ll develop the ability to gauge the pace of the green and adjust your stroke accordingly.

Start by experimenting with different putter lengths and swing tempos, paying close attention to the feedback your putter provides as it makes contact with the ball. Notice how slight adjustments in your stroke can influence the speed and distance of the putt, allowing you to dial in the perfect pace for every roll.

Developing the Ability to Adjust to Different Course Conditions

But the true beauty of Speed Control Challenges lies in their ability to simulate real-world course conditions. From lightning-fast greens to slow and sluggish surfaces, golfers must adapt their speed control to meet the demands of each unique environment.

As you navigate these challenges, focus on maintaining a consistent stroke tempo and rhythm, regardless of the speed of the green. Trust your instincts and rely on your touch and feel to guide the ball toward the hole with precision and accuracy.

But perhaps the most valuable lesson to be learned from Speed Control Challenges is the importance of adaptability. In golf, as in life, conditions are constantly changing, and the ability to adjust on the fly is essential for success. By mastering speed control, you’ll develop the resilience and versatility needed to thrive in any situation.

Drill #11: Visualizing Putt Lines for Better Reads

Training Your Mind to Visualize the Putt’s Path

Close your eyes and imagine yourself standing on the green, studying the contours and slopes that lie between your ball and the hole. With visualizing putt lines, you’ll develop the ability to mentally trace the path of the putt, envisioning every break and curve with vivid detail.

Start by visualizing a straight line extending from your ball to the hole, known as the intended putt line. Then, mentally overlay the contours of the green onto this line, taking into account any slopes or undulations that may affect the putt’s trajectory.

Improving Reading Skills and Decision-Making on the Green

But visualizing putt lines isn’t just about seeing the path – it’s also about making informed decisions based on your read of the green. As you hone your visualization skills, you’ll develop the ability to anticipate how the ball will react to different slopes and breaks, allowing you to choose the optimal line and speed for each putt.

Focus on gathering information from your surroundings, such as the grain of the grass, the texture of the green, and any visual markers that may indicate slope or break. Use this information to refine your visualization and make confident, decisive decisions about how to approach each putt.

But perhaps the true beauty of visualizing putt lines lies in its adaptability. Whether you’re facing a subtle break or a dramatic slope, this drill offers a versatile approach to reading the green and making informed decisions that suit your unique style of play.

Drill #12: Putting Competitions for Fun and Improvement

Engaging in Friendly Competitions to Enhance Motivation

Picture yourself on the practice green, surrounded by fellow golfers eager to put their putting prowess to the test. With putting competitions, you’ll experience a surge of motivation and excitement as you compete against others in a friendly and supportive environment.

Whether it’s a simple putting contest or a more elaborate tournament-style event, the thrill of competition adds an extra layer of excitement to your putting drills. Challenge yourself to sink putts from varying distances and angles, all while keeping an eye on your competitors and striving to outperform them with each stroke.

Tracking Progress and Celebrating Successes with Fellow Golfers

But putting competitions offer more than just an opportunity to showcase your skills – they also provide a valuable platform for tracking progress and celebrating successes with your peers. As you compete alongside fellow golfers, you’ll have the chance to observe their techniques, share tips and strategies, and learn from each other’s successes and failures.

Use putting competitions as a gauge of your improvement over time, tracking your performance in each event and identifying areas for growth and development. Celebrate your successes – whether it’s sinking a clutch putt to win a competition or achieving a personal best – and use them as motivation to continue pushing yourself to new heights.

But perhaps the true beauty of putting competitions lies in the sense of community and camaraderie they foster among golfers. Whether you’re competing against friends, teammates, or fellow club members, these events offer a chance to bond over a shared passion for the game and forge lasting friendships both on and off the green.

Conclusion: Mastering Distance Control for Putting Success

In golf, mastering distance control is the key to unlocking putting success on the green. From fine-tuning your stroke technique to developing a keen eye for reading greens, every aspect of your putting game plays a crucial role in achieving consistency and accuracy.

Through a variety of putting drills, golfers can hone their skills and build the confidence needed to excel under pressure. Whether it’s perfecting your alignment, refining your speed control, or visualizing putt lines with precision, each drill offers a unique opportunity for growth and improvement.

But perhaps the greatest lesson to be learned from putting drills is the importance of perseverance and determination. Like any skill in golf, mastering distance control requires patience, practice, and a willingness to learn from both successes and setbacks.

So, the next time you step onto the practice green, embrace the challenge of mastering distance control and watch as your putting prowess reaches new heights. With dedication and effort, you’ll soon find yourself sinking putts with confidence and precision, leaving your opponents in awe of your putting prowess.