Poor long putting

20 Most common shot problems

Lesson 16 of 20

Diagnosis:  Poor long putting

Explanation:    The biggest reason weekend golfers so often three putt longer putts is they simply don’t practice them. Because of this they haven’t developed a feel or touch for putts of longer length. They end up hitting the ball and hoping rather than stroking the putt with a level of confidence.

      

     Through regular practice great lag putters have developed a keen sense of feel for longer putts. They also have set more realistic goals when faced with longer putts. Rather than thinking about making the first putt, they focus on leaving their first putt close enough to the hole to have a short second putt. This strategy along with their developed feel results in fewer three putts.

Correction:   I would first recommend visualizing a larger target. Imagine a three foot diameter circle around the hole, and focus on leaving your first putt within the circle. If successful the longest putt you’ll be left with is 18 inches.

           On longer putts stand slightly taller at address and make a longer stroke with more relaxed hands and wrists. This allows you to sense and feel the acceleration and release of the putter head. Develop a habit before each long putt of making a number of practice strokes to help you sense the length of the stroke and pace needed for the required distance. 

           There are no shortcuts in becoming a good lag putter. If you’re not already doing so add longer putts from various positions and slopes to your practice regiment. With continued practice you’ll see far fewer three putts on your scorecard.

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