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If you are not familiar with the Golf rules and techniques you would be astonished seeing the people sinking a putt (also known as short shots). It looks so easy while you are out of the ground. But in the game, it is totally different. Golf professionals spend most of the time to take a shot when he is a few inches far from the hole. In this article, I will share How to putt in Golf more consistently.
Sinking a putt will end the journey to the hole. So it is important to master this shot to save one. If a player swings well through the whole game but three-putts, he has to be back with disappointment. That’s why; sinking a putt is one of the toughest turns while on the ground.
Though golf putting techniques feel basic, without mastering it; you cannot collect your crops at home. This shot depends on some other situation and environment. You might be great with a long shot, but sink putt will take time to master is successful.
Let’s start learning how to putt a golf ball.
What are the 4 skills of putting?
The four skills of putting in golf are aim, stroke, speed, and reading the green.
Aim
Aim refers to the direction in which you aim the putter face at address and the intended target on the green. Proper aim is crucial for making putts, as it determines the starting direction of the ball.
Stroke
Stroke refers to the movement of the putter head during the putting stroke. A good stroke is smooth and consistent, and helps the player deliver the putter face consistently square to the intended line.
Speed
Speed refers to the pace at which the ball is struck. Getting the speed right is important because it determines how far the ball will roll. Too much speed can cause the ball to roll past the hole, while too little speed can leave the ball short.
Reading the green
Reading the green involves assessing the slope, undulations, and other features of the green in order to determine the best line for the putt. This involves taking into account factors such as the break, the speed of the green, and the overall slope of the green. By accurately reading the green, a player can improve their chances of making the putt.
What muscles are used in putting?
The muscles used in putting are primarily those in the hands, wrists, and forearms. These muscles are responsible for controlling the putter head during the stroke and for delivering the putter face consistently square to the intended line.
The muscles used in the hands and wrists include the flexor carpi radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, extensor carpi radialis, extensor carpi ulnaris, and the extensor digitorum. The flexor carpi radialis and flexor carpi ulnaris are responsible for flexing the wrist, while the extensor carpi radialis and extensor carpi ulnaris are responsible for extending the wrist. The extensor digitorum extends the fingers.
The muscles in the forearms that are used in putting include the flexor digitorum superficialis and the extensor digitorum. The flexor digitorum superficialis is responsible for flexing the fingers, while the extensor digitorum is responsible for extending the fingers.
Other muscles that may be used in putting include those in the shoulder, elbow, and back. These muscles help to stabilize the upper body and provide a stable base for the stroke.
What factors of impact are used in putting?
There are several factors of impact that are important to consider when putting in golf:
Impact point
The point on the putter face where the ball is struck. The impact point can affect the direction and distance of the putt.
Impact line
The line on the putter face that the ball travels along after being struck. The impact line can affect the direction and distance of the putt.
Impact angle
The angle at which the putter face strikes the ball. The impact angle can affect the direction and distance of the putt.
Impact speed
The speed at which the putter head is moving when it strikes the ball. The impact speed can affect the distance of the putt.
Spin
The amount of backspin or topspin that is imparted on the ball when it is struck. Spin can affect the direction and distance of the putt.
Roll
The amount of forward roll that the ball has after it is struck. Roll can affect the distance of the putt.
By understanding and controlling these factors of impact, a player can improve their putting accuracy and distance control.
What are the mechanics of putting?
The mechanics of putting involve the sequence of movements and body positions that a golfer goes through in order to execute a successful putt. These mechanics can vary slightly from player to player, but there are some general principles that apply to most players.
Grip
The grip is the way in which the hands are positioned on the putter. A good grip is crucial for controlling the putter head and delivering the putter face consistently square to the intended line.
Stance
The stance is the position of the feet and body relative to the ball and the target. A good stance provides a stable base for the stroke and allows the player to deliver the putter head on the intended line.
Alignment
Alignment refers to the position of the putter head and the body relative to the target. Proper alignment ensures that the putter face is square to the intended line and that the body is aligned in a way that allows for a smooth stroke.
Stroke
The stroke is the movement of the putter head during the putting motion. A good stroke is smooth and consistent, and helps the player deliver the putter face consistently square to the intended line.
Follow-through
The follow-through is the continuation of the stroke after the ball has been struck. A good follow-through helps to ensure that the putter face stays on the intended line and that the ball is struck with the desired speed.
By mastering these mechanics, a golfer can improve their putting accuracy and distance control.
Proper Putting stance
A proper putting stance is one that provides a stable base for the stroke and allows the player to deliver the putter head on the intended line. Here are some key elements to consider when setting up for a putt:
- Feet: The feet should be shoulder-width apart and pointed at the target. This helps to provide a stable base and ensure that the body is aligned properly.
- Knees: The knees should be bent slightly, with the weight evenly distributed between both legs. This helps to maintain balance and stability during the stroke.
- Hips: The hips should be aligned parallel to the target line. This helps to ensure that the body is square to the target and that the putter head is delivered on the intended line.
- Shoulders: The shoulders should be aligned parallel to the target line. This helps to ensure that the body is square to the target and that the putter head is delivered on the intended line.
- Eyes: The eyes should be focused on the ball and the target. This helps to ensure that the putter head is delivered on the intended line and that the player has a good understanding of the green.
By setting up in a proper putting stance, a golfer can improve their accuracy and distance control on the green.
Step-by-step Guide: How to Putt in Golf?
To be consistent you need to master basic putting technique well. I will describe the putting in golf techniques following some steps.
They are as listed below.
- Temperament
- The Green Factor
- Master the swing of the club
- Get better in Your Putting
1#Temperament – try to be calm and relaxed during putting in golf
Sinking a putt is the last shot you will take to the hole. It might not that hard but the tension of the final shot may cause some extra pressure. You need to have some good practice of controlling that situation to be a champ. Because the playing is easy but winning is all about nerve.
Take some time
Don’t hurry this shot. It is your last shot and you need to finish it now. But if you can’t remove your anxiety it will eat you up. So take some more time and be relaxed. Don’t lock your body while taking the shot. Follow the perfect stance and swing; you might win it for sure.
Maintain the focus
Do not lose your focus. It is more important than any other tips. Keep your eye just over the ball. When you take a long shot you may focus on the target and distance. But putting is quite different. Here the distance is a thinner factor. Now you just need to putt from a couple of inches. Keep your eye on the ball.
2#The Green Factor
Reading the green is a depending factor to take a shot. It means the path which your ball will roll to the hole. So you need to make sure the travel line is secure. So figure out the obstacle and advantage on your route.
#Stand or sit behind the ball
Stand or sit behind the ball to check the route precisely. But don’t sit more than 3 feet behind. From this distance, you can follow the way you are willing to push the ball.
#The Downhill Problem
If you need to put the ball from a slope it might be easy to read the green from the downhill. But while you are checking this from behind the ball, the hole might seem further than its regular distance. So be careful hitting it hard. You should remember, putting is not about power but a gentle push.
#Check back the area near the hole
You have found the distance and got your shot. But there is one more thing you should check again. Focus on the area near the whole. Because when you strike the ball it will be fast at the beginning and the break of grass will be accomplished by the speed.
But it will lose the speed near the hole and now the break of green matters here. Because of losing speed the slope has now more influence on the ball. So to ensure the putt, stand between the ball and the hole to check things out.
#The Flat Line Horizon
You should find a horizon to judge the green’s slope. Try to maintain a flat line in the background while you are looking over the green. Basically, it is not easy to understand the flat line of the green. So you should follow the break of grass from eaves and windows or bodies of water. From this flat line, you will discover a reference point from left to right.
If you are unable to find natural horizon, just use the brim of your cap or the visor to confirm the flat horizon. The curling hands around your face might be more effective while checking the horizon. Fingers should be above on your eyebrows. This method will block the peripheral vision.
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#Visualize the Edge of the hole
To sink a putt you need to push the ball gently towards the hole. If you push it straight there is a bigger chance to miss the hole. Because pushing the ball will not generate more speed and the ball could be influenced by the break of green.
To avoid this, you should target the slope and play the shot following it. Just think about a clock where your ball is in 12 and the hole in 6. Now find out the slope and push the ball using the slope.
3#The Swing Technique – Master the swing of your club
Take your club and think about your swing. It is important how you swing your club putting the ball. Sinking a putt requires a smaller amount of hit as it is just a couple of inches far from the hole. Let’s dig out the whole.
#Fix your grip – Take control of the shot
For a long shot, you can follow the different grips. But in most cases, you don’t need to master different grip to complete the putt. The grip should build depending on your strong hand. Let your fingers grip the club. The stronger hand should be on the lower part. For a right-handed player, the left hand should be on top and after that, the right hand continues. With this grip, you will have better control taking the shot.
#The Putting Posture or Stance
In Golf, posture is an important thing. The perfect posture will ensure a better shot. To sink a putt, follow the perfect stance. In this way, you need to approach the ball and keep the focus on it. Stand up straight near the ball. Extend your arms forward while holding your putter. Draw your elbows into the rib cage. After that bend over the ball and keep your putter heads rest just behind the ball.
Your knee should slightly bend or you will lose the control. It is because stiff legs may lock your movement. Before taking the shot, to be precise about the distance from the ball and your stance. Professionals always practice for a perfect stance to take shot comfortably.
#The focus factor
The focus on the shot makes you successful sinking a putt. You should keep your head over the ball. For a long shot our eyes follow the target but for putting it should be over the ball. And you also need to change the stance and standing position depending on the green factor.
#Swing of the club
Now it is time to swing your club. I already said once about your temperament. Now I repeat it again. You must be calm and not hurry to take the shot. Putt is not about hitting hard but a gentle push to roll the ball perfectly. Keep your club right behind the ball and push it toward the hole.
Taking the shot perfectly make sure the motion is in your arms. You can do it keeping your shoulders and wrists firm. This stance will help you take control over the shot and will ensure the accurate placement. You also need to concentrate on the distance of backswing and follow-through. The distance should be equal in terms of that.
If you are not sure about your follow through it might cause a wrong shot. So don’t try to pull your follow through long or short. It will remove the control. Take a wider stance for longer backswing.
4#Get Better in your putting
Last but not least, here are some final tips to improve your golf putting technique.
#Shadow practice to make the shot comfortable
Best putting technique ever is all about the nerve. So you should take your time. Use your training guide to help yourself confirm the successful putt. Just lay a stick to the whole and practice it from the variety of distances.
#Practice from a mixture of distance & be forceful
The power control is also important. You may hit it straight or following the slope, you need to practice more from different ranges to ensure how much power you need to putt the ball.
#Do not stare at the ball
Do not stare at the ball as it will ruin your concentration. But your instinct will always push you to lock the ball. But it is important to avoid staring at this.
See some indoor putting drills here.
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FAQs
Do you use your hips to putt?
In golf, the hips play a significant role in the putting stroke. Proper hip movement can help to generate power and control in the stroke, leading to more consistent and accurate putts.
To use your hips effectively when putting, it’s important to maintain a stable base and make a smooth, fluid stroke. As you take your backswing, your hips should begin to turn and rotate in the direction of the target. This will help you to generate power and momentum as you make your downswing.
During the downswing, your hips should continue to rotate and turn as you make contact with the ball. This will help you to transfer the power from your upper body to the ball, resulting in a more controlled and accurate putt.
It’s important to keep in mind that proper hip movement will vary from player to player, and it may take some experimentation and practice to find the right technique for you. However, by focusing on maintaining a stable base and making a smooth, fluid stroke, you can use your hips effectively to improve your putting game.
What moves first in putting?
In a proper putting stroke, the lower body typically initiates the movement. This means that the hips and legs should begin to turn and rotate as you take the club back for the backswing. The upper body should remain relatively still and relaxed, with the shoulders and arms following the movement of the lower body.
The key is to maintain balance and control throughout the stroke. By initiating the stroke with the lower body, you can create a smooth, fluid motion that helps to generate power and control. This can lead to more consistent and accurate putts.
As you make your downswing, the lower body should continue to turn and rotate through impact, transferring the power from your upper body to the ball. The upper body should remain relaxed and in control, with the arms and shoulders following the movement of the lower body.
It’s important to keep in mind that the timing and sequence of the putting stroke will vary from player to player, and it may take some experimentation and practice to find the right technique for you. However, by focusing on maintaining balance and control and initiating the stroke with the lower body, you can develop a smooth and effective putting stroke.
How far past the hole should you putt?
The distance that you putt past the hole will depend on several factors, including the length and speed of the putt, the slope and grain of the green, and your personal preference and skill level.
As a general rule, it’s a good idea to aim to leave your putt about one ball’s width past the hole. This will allow you to account for any breaks or undulations in the green, as well as any mis-hits or variations in the speed of your stroke.
If you’re facing a long putt, it’s generally better to err on the side of caution and aim to leave your putt a little further past the hole. This will help to ensure that you have a good chance of making the putt if you happen to misjudge the distance or speed.
On the other hand, if you’re facing a shorter putt or a putt with a lot of break, you may want to aim to leave your putt closer to the hole. This will give you a better chance of making the putt if you happen to overhit it or misjudge the break.
Ultimately, the key is to find a distance that works for you and gives you the best chance of making the putt. This may take some experimentation and practice, but with time and experience, you’ll be able to develop a good sense of the distance that you should aim for on different types of putts.Top of Form
Which hand dominates in putting?
In golf, the dominant hand is the hand that typically has the most control and influence over the club. For most right-handed players, the dominant hand is the right hand, while for most left-handed players, it’s the left hand.
When it comes to putting, the dominant hand plays a key role in the stroke. It’s typically responsible for controlling the clubface and determining the direction of the putt.
For right-handed players, the right hand is typically the dominant hand when putting, while for left-handed players, the left hand is typically the dominant hand. However, there are some players who use a cross-handed or “lefty” grip when putting, in which the non-dominant hand is placed on top of the grip. This grip can help some players to feel more comfortable and confident when putting, and it may help them to make a more consistent stroke.
Ultimately, the key is to find a grip and stroke that feels comfortable and natural for you. With time and practice, you’ll be able to develop a putting stroke that works for you and helps you to make more consistent and accurate putts.
What powers the putting stroke?
The putting stroke is powered primarily by the muscles in the hands, wrists, and forearms. These muscles are responsible for controlling the putter head during the stroke and for delivering the putter face consistently square to the intended line.
It is important to have a smooth and consistent putting stroke in order to deliver the putter face consistently square to the intended line and control the distance of the putt.
What is the best way to putt in golf?
At First you have to correct your posture if you want to putt in the best way. Hold the club right in front of the center of the ball. Make sure to point in the right direction and feel the distance. Then remark and hit the ball to putt.
Where do you strike the ball when putting?
While putting the golf ball you at first have to maintain a proper posture of your body. Then maintain a good grab of the club, swing the club and strike it right in the front center of the golf ball. You have to grip with less pressure and hit the golf ball freely.
The Final Thoughts…
I have described above how to putt in Golf in detail. I hope now you understand how to take the shot. Putting in Golf is the final shot that always demands more concentration. Though you will find it easier, it is possible to miss it more than other shots.
Basics of putting in Golf is not about power or hitting hard. It is a shot with a calm head and firm wrists. Just push the ball on its way considering the green and other factors. Practice it from different distances and you will find it easier to accomplish.
See also:
- Stretching Exercise before Golf
- New Golf Rules 2019
- How to Fix a Golf Slice
- How to Fix Golf Shank
- Best Golf Forums to Follow
- Best Golf Chipping Tips to Follow
- Best Golf Drills to Do at Home
- How to Hit a Flop Shot
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Daisy is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Golfs Hub. She is associated with Golf for more than 20 years. She got the inspiration from her father. She is a very private person & doesn't like to be photographed. She's worked in nearly every job in the golf industry from club fitting to instruction to writing and speaking. Now she is enjoying her retirement from day job... but not from Golf! Daisy lives in southeasternmost part of New York state with her family.
Thanks for the tip to focus on my stance and standing position when trying to sink the golf ball on its assigned hole. We have an upcoming mini-golf tournament this weekend arranged by my PE professor, and I need to get a high grade for me to pass the course with flying colors. I’ll make sure to practice during my free time and find an affordable mini-golf practice area to polish my skills and develop techniques.