Do you find that your putting stroke is often hindered by excessive hand action? If so, you’re not alone. Many golfers struggle to maintain a stable and consistent stroke due to the movement of their hands. But fear not, there are techniques and tips that can help you reduce this hand action and improve your putting game. In this article, we will explore some practical strategies to help you achieve a smoother, more controlled putting stroke, allowing you to sink those putts with confidence. So, let’s get started on refining your technique and mastering the art of putting.

1. Grip

1.1 Choosing the Right Grip

When it comes to putting, choosing the right grip is crucial for ensuring consistent stroke and control. There are various putting grips to choose from, such as the traditional reverse overlap grip, cross-handed grip, claw grip, and more. Experiment with different grips to find the one that feels most comfortable and gives you the best control over the putter face.

1.2 Neutral Grip Pressure

In addition to selecting the right grip, maintaining neutral grip pressure is essential for a smooth and consistent putting stroke. Gripping the putter too tightly can introduce unnecessary tension, which can negatively affect your stroke. On the other hand, gripping the putter too lightly can lead to a lack of control and inconsistency. Find the balance that allows you to maintain a relaxed but secure grip on the putter.

2. Setup

2.1 Alignment and Posture

Proper alignment and posture are vital for achieving a consistent and accurate putting stroke. To ensure proper alignment, position your feet parallel to the intended target line. Align your eyes directly over the ball, allowing you to have a clear view of the target. In terms of posture, stand comfortably with a slight bend in your knees and a straight back. Avoid slouching or leaning too far forward, as it can throw off your balance and affect the consistency of your stroke.

2.2 Ball Position

The position of the ball in your stance can have a significant impact on your putting stroke. For most putts, it is recommended to position the ball slightly forward of the center of your stance. This allows for a more consistent impact position and a smoother roll off the putter face. Experiment with different ball positions to find the one that suits your stroke and gives you the best control over the putt.

2.3 Stance Width

The width of your stance can also play a role in your putting stroke. A shoulder-width stance is generally recommended for most golfers. This stance width provides stability and balance throughout the putting stroke, allowing for a smoother and more controlled movement. However, some golfers may feel more comfortable with a slightly narrower or wider stance. It is essential to find the stance width that provides you with the most stability and control over the putt.

3. Pendulum Motion

3.1 Understanding the Pendulum Motion

The pendulum motion is a key component of a solid putting stroke. It involves the smooth back-and-forth movement of the putter, resembling a pendulum swinging. The goal is to maintain a consistent rhythm and tempo throughout the stroke, allowing for better control and accuracy. To achieve the pendulum motion, focus on using your shoulders and arms as a unit, while minimizing excessive wrist or hand action.

3.2 Importance of a Smooth Stroke

A smooth and fluid stroke is crucial for maintaining consistency in your putting. Any jerky or erratic movements can disrupt the pendulum motion and lead to a lack of control over the putter face. Practice developing a smooth stroke by focusing on a steady and even tempo. Avoid rushing the backswing or the follow-through and strive for a seamless transition between the two.

3.3 Practicing the Pendulum Motion

To improve your pendulum motion, it is essential to practice regularly. Set up a putting mat or use a practice green to simulate on-course conditions. Focus on maintaining a consistent tempo and rhythm throughout your stroke. You can also try using a metronome or counting in your head to develop a consistent cadence. By regularly practicing the pendulum motion, you can improve your putting consistency and overall performance on the greens.

4. Wrist Control

4.1 Minimizing Wrist Break

Excessive wrist break during the putting stroke can introduce additional variables and instability, making it challenging to achieve consistent results. To minimize wrist break, focus on keeping your wrists firm and stable throughout the stroke. Avoid any unnecessary flicking or flipping of the wrists, as it can lead to inconsistencies in the putter face angle and accuracy.

4.2 Keeping Wrists Stable

Stable wrists are crucial for maintaining control and consistency in your putting stroke. One way to achieve stable wrists is by using a grip that promotes stability, such as the claw grip or the cross-handed grip. Additionally, maintaining your grip pressure at a consistent level can help keep your wrists steady. Practice drills and exercises specifically designed to improve wrist stability, such as putting with a towel under your wrists, to develop the necessary control and stability in your stroke.

5. Visual Alignment

5.1 Utilizing a Line or Alignment Aid

Visual alignment plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate and consistent putting. Utilizing a line or alignment aid on your ball can help you establish the desired line of your putt. Many golf balls have alignment markings that can be used as a guide. Place the alignment aid towards your intended target line and align the putter face parallel to it. This can assist in achieving better visual alignment and improved accuracy on the greens.

5.2 Focusing on the Target

Another key aspect of visual alignment is focusing on the target itself. Once you have established the intended line of the putt, keep your focus on the target as you stroke the ball. By keeping your eyes fixed on the target throughout the stroke, you reduce the chances of misalignment and improve your ability to accurately deliver the ball to your desired location.

6. Pre-shot Routine

6.1 Creating a Consistent Pre-shot Routine

A consistent pre-shot routine is vital for maintaining focus and consistency on the greens. Develop a routine that works best for you and helps you prepare for each putt. This routine can involve visualizing the putt, taking practice strokes, or going through a specific sequence of steps. The key is to find a routine that instills confidence and prepares you mentally before each putt.

6.2 Mental Preparation

Putting is not just a physical task but also a mental one. Before each putt, take a moment to mentally visualize the line, speed, and feel of the putt. Imagine the ball rolling smoothly along the intended line and finding the bottom of the cup. By mentally preparing yourself for the putt, you can enhance your focus and concentration, leading to improved performance on the greens.

7. Putting Drills and Exercises

7.1 Distance Control Drill

Distance control is a crucial skill in putting. To improve your distance control, set up a series of targets at various distances on the practice green. Start with shorter putts and gradually work your way back to longer putts. Focus on hitting each putt to the intended target and develop a feel for the distance required for each putt. This drill will help you fine-tune your touch and improve your ability to control the speed of your putts.

7.2 Gate Drill

The gate drill is an effective tool for improving your accuracy and consistency. Set up two alignment aids or tees slightly wider than the width of your putter head, creating a “gate.” Practice stroking the ball through the gate, ensuring that you maintain a square putter face and a smooth stroke. This drill will enhance your ability to consistently strike the ball along the intended line and improve your overall putting accuracy.

7.3 Eyes Closed Drill

The eyes closed drill is an excellent exercise for developing better feel and touch in your putting stroke. Start by lining up a short putt, then close your eyes and stroke the ball. By relying solely on your sense of feel, you enhance your ability to sense the weight of the putter head and develop a more intuitive stroke. This drill can help you develop greater confidence in your ability to judge distances and improve your overall putting performance.

8. Seeking Professional Guidance

8.1 Working with a Putting Coach

If you are struggling with your putting stroke and seek more personalized guidance, consider working with a putting coach. A putting coach can provide you with expert advice, identify areas for improvement, and customize drills and exercises to address your specific needs. They can help you refine your technique, develop a consistent stroke, and improve your overall putting performance.

8.2 Video Analysis

Video analysis is another useful tool for identifying and correcting any flaws in your putting stroke. Set up a camera or smartphone to record your putting stroke from different angles. Review the footage with a trained eye or seek feedback from a putting coach. By analyzing your stroke frame by frame, you can pinpoint areas for improvement, make necessary adjustments, and accelerate your progress in putting.

9. Avoiding Tension

9.1 Relaxation Techniques

Tension in your body can hinder your putting stroke and lead to inconsistent results. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation, to help release tension before each putt. By consciously relaxing your body, particularly your hands, arms, and shoulders, you can achieve a freer and more fluid putting motion.

9.2 Deep Breathing

Deep breathing is an effective technique for reducing tension and promoting relaxation. Before each putt, take a moment to take a deep breath in through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. Focus on letting any tension or stress melt away with each breath. Deep breathing can help calm your mind and body, allowing you to approach each putt with a clear and relaxed mindset.

9.3 Visualization

Visualization is a powerful technique that can help reduce tension and enhance focus. Before each putt, visualize the desired line, trajectory, and outcome of the putt. See the ball rolling smoothly along the intended line and into the cup. By vividly imagining success, you can alleviate anxiety and create a positive mental state conducive to better putting performance.

10. Fitness and Flexibility

10.1 Strengthening Core Muscles

A strong and stable core is essential for maintaining balance and control in your putting stroke. Incorporate exercises that target your core muscles, such as planks, Russian twists, and bird dogs, into your fitness routine. Strengthening your core will help you maintain a solid and balanced putting posture, leading to improved consistency and control on the greens.

10.2 Maintaining Flexibility

Flexibility plays a crucial role in achieving a smooth and efficient putting stroke. Incorporate stretching exercises that focus on your hips, shoulders, and upper back into your warm-up routine. Improved flexibility in these areas will allow for a better range of motion and fluidity in your stroke. Regular stretching can also help prevent injuries and promote overall physical well-being.

By following these tips and implementing the suggested drills and exercises, you can reduce hand action in your putting stroke and improve your overall performance on the greens. Remember, consistency and practice are key to success in putting. So, get out there, have fun, and watch your putting game soar to new heights!